Dr. VASHISHTHA NARAYAN SINGH WAS A GREAT MATHEMATICIAN

Dr. VASHISHTHA NARAYAN SINGH WAS A GREAT MATHEMATICIAN

8-JULY-ENG 5

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA-------------------------Dr. Vashishtha Narayan Singh (April 2, 1942 – November 14, 2019) was one of India's greatest mathematicians. He gained worldwide recognition for his extraordinary genius. His mathematical prowess was so exceptional that he is counted among the scholars who offered new perspectives on Albert Einstein's theory of relativity. In 2020, the Government of India posthumously honored him with the Padma Shri, the country's fourth-highest civilian award.

He was born in the village of Basantpur in the Bhojpur district of Bihar. His father, Shri Lal Bahadur Singh, was a constable in the police department. Dr. Vashishtha Narayan Singh possessed exceptional intellect from childhood. He completed his schooling at Netarhat Residential School and his undergraduate studies (B.Sc.) at Patna Science College. Recognizing his talent, the college administration granted him special permission to appear for the final-year examination while still in his first year; he secured the top position in that exam.

Impressed by his remarkable talent, Professor John L. Kelley of the University of California, Berkeley, invited him to the United States in 1965. There, he earned his PhD in Mathematics in 1969. Subsequently, he engaged in teaching and research at several prestigious institutions, including the University of Washington. It is also widely said that he contributed to the mathematical work associated with NASA's Apollo program.

He married in 1973, but during this period, he began suffering from a severe mental illness—schizophrenia. His marital life was affected by the illness, and he eventually divorced. Due to a lack of adequate treatment and care, much of his life was spent in struggle and obscurity. In 1989, he suddenly went missing and was found several years later in Saran (Chhapra) in a truly pitiable condition. He passed away on November 14, 2019, at the age of 74 at Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) following a prolonged illness. After his demise, the Government of Bihar conducted his last rites with state honors.

Dr. Vashishtha Narayan Singh's life stands as a symbol of extraordinary talent, struggle, patience, and inspiration. He will forever remain a source of inspiration for future generations.