Bharat Ratna SIR M. VISVESVARAYA

Bharat Ratna SIR M. VISVESVARAYA

Published By: Vaibhavi Visions on behalf of Karnataka Soaps & Detergents Limited (KS&DL)

Overview

This book tells the life story of Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya (fondly known as Sir M.V.), one of India's most respected engineers, statesmen, and nation-builders. Written in simple English with full-color illustrations, it traces his 102-year life journey from a humble childhood in a Karnataka village to becoming a recipient of India’s highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna.

Key Highlights & Plot Summary

1. Early Life and Education

   • Born on September 15, 1860, in Muddenahalli, Karnataka, to Srinivasa Shastri and Venkatalakshmamma.

   • Despite losing his father at age 15 and facing severe financial hardships, he pursued his education with determination. His mother pledged her own kitchen utensils so he could pay his exam fees.

   • He funded his higher education in Bengaluru by tutoring children. Recognising his sharp mind, his college principal recommended him for a scholarship to study civil engineering at Pune, where he graduated as the top student.

2. Engineering Marvels & Innovation

   • Khadakavasla Dam: Designed and patented automatic floodgates that increased the reservoir's water capacity without raising the dam wall.

   • Water Systems: Created clean water distribution networks for cities like Sukkor (now in Pakistan) and Aden (Yemen).

   • Flood Control: Solved severe flooding issues in Hyderabad (Moosi River) and Odisha (Mahanadi River).

   • Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam: Designed and built the massive dam across the Cauvery River at Kannambadi using a traditional mortar mix instead of cement.

3. Administration and Social Reforms

   • Served as the Dewan (Prime Minister) of Mysore State.

   • Fixed unjust colonial practices, such as ensuring Indian officers received equal seating (chairs) alongside British officials at royal durbars.

   • Promoted women’s education, banned caste-based separation during public meals, and stopped appointments based on favoritism.

   • Helped set up key institutions, including the University of Mysore, State Bank of Mysore, Century Club, and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

4. Industrial Revolution & Mysore Sandal Soap

   • Believed in the motto "Industrialize or Perish".

   • Transformed the struggling Bhadravathi Iron Works into a profitable factory by removing unnecessary expenses and appointing local talent.

   • Founded the Government Soap Factory in 1918 in Bengaluru, which created the famous Mysore Sandal Soap.

5. Character and Values

   • Integrity: Kept separate candles for personal and official work so as not to misuse government property.

   • Punctuality & Discipline: Strongly valued time—once giving a reduced cash prize to a relative who arrived 15 minutes late.

   • Humility: Declined personal payments or naming institutions after himself, choosing to dedicate them to the state or society instead.

6. Later Years and Legacy

   • Even in his 80s and 90s, he remained energetic—surveying a railway bridge project in Bihar across the Ganga River at age 92 by jumping across rocks.

   • Awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1955.

   • Passed away peacefully on April 14, 1962, at the age of 101, leaving behind a legacy of selfless service.

Core Message

The book inspires readers of all ages to lead a life driven by discipline, hard work, self-respect, continuous learning, and service to society.