Until just a few years ago, diabetic patients had to prick themselves multiple times a day to check their blood sugar levels. However, now, without a blood test, a patient’s glucose levels, cholesterol, uric acid, and even cancer can be detected and accurately analyzed just by scanning the skin. This is made possible by identifying the color of blood through the Raman Spectrum technique.
Beyond cancer detection, the Raman Effect is now being used as a non-invasive technology (without surgery or internal instruments) for treatment as well. Ultimately, the goal of science and scientists is human welfare. When a discovery or invention benefits human civilization, it deserves global recognition, inspiring future generations.
The Story Behind the Raman Effect
The Raman Effect is one such scientific discovery, made by Indian physicist Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman in 1928. His journey in research is fascinating.
Renowned physicist C.V. Raman was born on November 7, 1888, in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, in a humble family. After displaying exceptional intelligence in his early years and completing his post-graduation, he, like any ordinary young man, applied for a government job. In 1907, he secured a position as Assistant Accountant General and moved to Calcutta, where his life took a routine course.
However, Raman was not destined for an ordinary life. One day, on his way home from work, he noticed a signboard that read “Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science.” It was a turning point in his life. Some events in life are beyond personal control, guided by higher consciousness, and some extraordinary minds reshape knowledge through their intellect and creativity, making it timeless. Raman was one such mind.
He immediately visited the institute, introduced himself, and received permission to conduct experiments in its laboratory. His deep interest in physics and mathematics led him to quit his government job in 1917 and accept a professorship in Calcutta. At that time, he was researching the science of sound in Indian musical instruments, studying both Western and Indian instruments.
Raman’s family had a strong musical background. His father, Chandrasekhar Iyer, was a violinist, his wife Lokasundari Ammal was a Veena player, and his mother Parvati was a Sanskrit scholar. Raman himself played the mridangam. His research on the science of Indian musical instruments and their sound dynamics was driven by deep faith in India’s knowledge traditions.
His research paper on violin and percussion instruments was published in the world-renowned science journal Nature. In 1921, his work on stringed instruments, including the Veena and Tanpura, was also published. His research was so influential that when Germany planned an encyclopedia on physics in 1926, Raman was the only non-European invited to contribute a chapter on “Physics of Musical Instruments.”
In 1921, Raman was invited to represent India at the Commonwealth Universities Congress in Oxford, UK. This journey proved life-changing.
The Discovery of the Raman Effect
During his sea voyage to Britain, Raman began deeply contemplating why the ocean and sky appeared blue. At the time, the scientific belief was that the ocean was blue because it reflected the sky. However, Raman was not satisfied with this explanation. He continued to think deeply about it, leading him to a new research direction upon his return to India.
According to the Raman Effect, when a beam of light passes through a transparent substance (like water, glass, or gas), its color slightly changes. This means that when light interacts with a material, its energy shifts slightly, altering its color. This color change depends on the material’s properties.
This discovery created a major stir in the global scientific community. Many Western scientists initially refused to accept it, but Raman persisted with his research and proved his findings.
At that time, India lacked advanced laboratories, international collaborations, and financial resources like Western nations. Despite these challenges, Raman’s dedication and perseverance led him to confirm the Raman Effect, earning global recognition.
India was still under British rule, and for an Indian scientist to gain international recognition was extremely difficult.
In 1928, C.V. Raman was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Physics, but the award went to British physicist Owen Richardson. In 1929, despite another nomination, he again lost to French physicist Louis de Broglie.
Finally, in 1930, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics, marking a historic moment for Indian science. His hard work, struggle, and patience had finally paid off.
Raman Effect’s Legacy in Modern Science
It takes courage and determination to pursue difficult research under adverse conditions. As Albert Einstein once said, “To venture into difficult tasks, one needs a little talent but a lot of courage”—a statement that perfectly applies to Sir C.V. Raman.
Today, the Raman Effect has multiple applications.
When India’s Chandrayaan mission confirmed the presence of water on the Moon, it was made possible using Raman Spectroscopy.
In 1986, February 28 was officially declared National Science Day in India to honor the contributions of Indian scientists. It is especially celebrated to commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect by Sir C.V. Raman.
The theme for National Science Day 2025 is:
“Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science and Innovation for a Developed India.”
(By: Medha Bajpai)
#NationalScienceDay #YouthInScience #ScientificHeritage #Innovation #STEMEducation #FutureScientists #ScienceAwareness #TechnologyAndResearch
