A Journey of Grit and Grace: The Story of a Karmayogi Scientist

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Some lives do not merely succeed — they quietly redefine what is possible.

This is the story of one such individual, a scientist whose journey reflects not only intellectual brilliance but also a deep sense of purpose and commitment.

He went on to become one of India’s most eminent scientists, holding leadership positions in the country’s foremost scientific and research institutions. He served as Director General of CSIR, chaired several high-powered national committees, and was closely associated with India’s innovation movement, including his role as Chairman of the National Innovation Foundation.

His work earned him global recognition. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS), one of the highest honours in science, and has also been elected to prestigious academies across the world. Over the years, he has received numerous awards, including the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan. More than forty universities have honoured him with honorary doctorates.

Yet, what makes his journey truly remarkable lies in where it began.

R. A. Mashelkar with his mother and wife in a family photograph at home
A life shaped by quiet strength and unwavering support

He was born in a small village in Goa. At the age of six, he lost his father. His mother, determined to give her son an education, moved to Mumbai in search of better opportunities. They lived in a chawl, often struggling to make ends meet.

As a young boy, he would walk barefoot to a municipal school. There were times when he could not even afford a notebook. Yet, he consistently excelled in his studies and stood out as one of the brightest students.

After completing the seventh standard, he sought admission to Union High School. The fee was twenty-one rupees — a sum his mother could not afford. In a touching gesture of faith, their maid lent her entire savings so that he could continue his education.

At school, a teacher, Mr. Bhave, played a defining role in shaping his thinking. Explaining how a convex lens can focus sunlight to ignite a flame, he encouraged the young boy to focus his mind in the same way. That simple image stayed with him and sparked his aspiration to become a scientist.

He went on to perform exceptionally well in his board examinations, securing a high rank in Maharashtra, often studying under the light of a street lamp.

His curiosity knew no bounds. He would spend hours outside a bookstall in Girgaon, reading whatever he could, returning the books after browsing because he could not afford to buy them.

At one point, financial constraints almost forced him to give up further education. But encouragement from his mother and support from the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust enabled him to continue. He joined Jai Hind College, where he again distinguished himself academically.

He later pursued Chemical Engineering at UDCT (now the Institute of Chemical Technology), Mumbai. Despite opportunities to go abroad, he chose to continue his work in India, completing his postgraduate studies and PhD under the guidance of Professor M. M. Sharma.

A fellowship took him to the University of Salford, where he was encouraged to work in a new field. He embraced the challenge and soon established himself as a respected researcher.

At a crucial moment in his career, he was invited to return to India. Despite the perception at the time that scientific careers in India offered limited prospects, he chose to come back and dedicate himself to building the country’s scientific and technological capabilities.

This decision would define his life.

He later became widely known for his role in challenging international patents on turmeric, neem and basmati rice, arguing that these were part of India’s traditional knowledge. His efforts led to a landmark victory and influenced how such knowledge is recognised globally.

There is also a simple, telling anecdote from his early life. After completing his graduation, he told his mother, who worked washing vessels, that she need not work anymore as he could now support her.

She asked him, “Is graduation the end, or can you study further?”

When he replied that he could continue, she said, “Then go ahead. I can keep doing this work.”

That quiet resolve perhaps shaped everything that followed.

This remarkable journey is that of Raghunath Anant Mashelkar — a true Karmayogi, whose life reflects perseverance, humility, and a deep commitment to the pursuit of knowledge.

If you wish, you may explore the Rodevra website

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