Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, a renowned Indian engineer, scholar, and statesman, is celebrated for his contributions to the field of engineering and his pivotal role in nation-building. While he is well-known for his achievements, there are some lesser-known facts about him:
In India, September 15th, which is Sir M. Visvesvaraya's birthday, is celebrated as Engineer's Day in his honor. On this day, engineers across the country pay tribute to his contributions to the field.
Known as the "Father of Indian Engineering," Visvesvaraya's pioneering work in irrigation and flood control, exemplified by the Krishna Raja Sagara Dam, transformed arid regions into fertile lands.
In 1915, for his exceptional contributions, Visvesvaraya was knighted as "Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya," a rare honor for an Indian during the British colonial era.
He was the first engineer to be honored with the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, in 1955. This recognition reflects his exceptional contributions to engineering and nation-building.
Beyond engineering, Visvesvaraya served as Diwan of Mysore, where he implemented progressive policies and contributed to the state's development.
Sir M. Visvesvaraya was a strong advocate for industrialization in India. He played a key role in setting up several industrial and manufacturing units, contributing significantly to India's economic development
He established the Mysore Soap Factory in 1916. This initiative not only promoted local industry but also provided employment opportunities to many people in the region.
Apart from his engineering prowess, he was a prolific writer. He authored several books and papers on engineering, economic planning, and nation-building. His literary works continue to inspire and educate generations of engineers and policymakers.