Some Prominent Sikh Scientists
Author: Prof. Dr. Surjit Singh Bhatti
Book Reviewer
Dr. Devinder Pal Singh
Author: Prof. Dr. Surjit Singh Bhatti
Book Reviewer
Dr. Devinder Pal Singh
Title: Some Prominent Sikh Scientists
Author: Prof. (Dr.) Surjit Singh Bhatti
Co-authors: Dr. Raja Balraj Singh and Dr. Rajbir Singh Bhatti
Book Reviewer: Dr. Devinder Pal Singh
Publisher: Chetna Parkashan, 2025
ISBN: 978-93-6831-587-2
Pages: 145
Price: ₹395 / $20
Some Prominent Sikh Scientists by Professor Dr. Surjit Singh Bhatti is a compelling and inspirational compilation that honours the life and achievements of outstanding Sikh figures in the world of science and technology. This well-researched volume, co-contributed by Dr. Raja Balraj Singh and Dr. Rajbir Singh Bhatti, bridges the often under-acknowledged gap between Sikh identity and scientific innovation, revealing the global contributions made by individuals whose faith and cultural background shaped their scientific journeys.
The book is organized into fourteen chapters, each dedicated to a prominent Sikh scientist, detailing their biographical journey, scientific achievements, and broader societal contributions. The book chapters are complemented by a foreword, preface, appendices, and an epilogue. Appendices provide additional details, such as research papers, patents, and literary works, enriching the reader's understanding of each scientist’s impact. The epilogue contextualizes the overlooked recognition of some of these scientists.
The foreword by Prof. Dr. Jai Rup Singh sets the tone by emphasizing the resilience and ingenuity of the Sikh community in global scientific advancements. The preface outlines the book’s aim: to highlight lesser-known contributions in a non-technical manner, making complex scientific concepts accessible to a broad audience.
Some Prominent Sikh Scientists opens with a write-up on Professor Puran Singh, a pioneering industrial chemist and mystic poet. In addition to revolutionizing the extraction of essential and industrial oils from forest products, he was also a spiritual writer influenced by Sikhism, Japanese aesthetics, and Walt Whitman. It is followed by an article on Dr. Bawa Kartar Singh, known as the Father of Stereochemistry in India. He researched optical activity and asymmetric molecules, verifying Pasteur's theories. A direct descendant of Guru Amar Das Ji, he bridged spiritual legacy with scientific innovation. The next chapter describes the life and works of Dr. Narinder Singh Kapany - The "Father of Fiber Optics.” Dr. Kapany invented optical fiber cable technology that forms the backbone of the modern Internet. Despite holding 120 patents, he remained humble and promoted Sikh art and education worldwide. The following article on Dr. Sohan Singh Hayreh, a world-renowned ophthalmologist, elaborates on his pioneering efforts in fluorescein angiography and making groundbreaking discoveries in optic nerve and retinal diseases, earning him global accolades and reshaping the field of eye surgery.
Chapter 5 enunciates the contributions of Dr. Harkishan Singh, a celebrated pharmacologist and science historian. He developed new neuromuscular blocking drugs and authored pivotal works on pharmaceutical education. He played a vital role in founding India’s premier institute, NIPER, and was honoured with the Padma Shri for his scientific contributions. A write-up on Dr. Khem Singh Gill follows it. Known as the Father of India’s Green Revolution in wheat, Dr. Gill developed high-yield, disease-resistant crop varieties. As Vice-Chancellor of Punjab Agricultural University, he mentored generations of agricultural scientists. Chapter 7 elaborates on the contributions of Dr. Kartar Singh Lalvani, a pharma entrepreneur and innovator. He patented affordable, nutrient-rich health supplements and founded the global brand Vitabiotics. Awarded the OBE in the UK, he was a philanthropist who was focused on maternal and child health.
The accomplishments of Dr. Devinder Singh Chahal, a microbiologist and spiritual scholar, are described in Chapter 8. Dr. Chahal developed patented bioconversion processes to convert waste into fuel, feed, and food. He also founded the Institute for Understanding Sikhism in Canada to promote rational Gurbani interpretation. This chapter is followed by the outstanding work of a globally acclaimed rice geneticist, Dr. Gurdev Singh Khush. It is worth noting that Dr. Khush developed over 300 improved rice varieties and led the Rice Revolution in Asia. A World Food Prize and Padma Shri laureate, he was the first Sikh to be elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society. Chapter 10 outlines the achievements of Dr. Naranjan Singh Dhalla, a globally respected cardiovascular scientist, who discovered new hormonal effects in heart disease and contributed to heart failure treatments. He is honoured with Canada’s highest civilian awards and remains a pillar of medical research.
The last four chapters of the book are devoted to five outstanding researchers, e.g. Dr. Harvinder Singh Sahota, Dr. Raghbir Singh Khandpur, Dr. Gurtej Singh Sandhu, Engineer Jasbir Singh Sethi and Dr. Santokh Singh Badesha. Chapter 11 succinctly describes the inventor of the perfusion angioplasty balloon - Dr. Harvinder Singh Sahota. Known as the "Hero of American Hearts," he saved millions of lives with his minimally invasive heart treatments. He holds 24 medical patents and has won countless awards. The next chapter elaborates on the contributions of Dr. Raghbir Singh Khandpur, a leader in electronic and biomedical instrumentation. He played a critical role in establishing India’s first LINAC for cancer treatment. As founder of CEDTI and Science City, he advanced medical tech and science education nationwide.
Writing about Dr. Gurtej Singh Sandhu, an innovator, the author proclaims that Dr. Sandhu is one of the world’s most prolific inventors of nanotechnology and semiconductor devices. He holds over 1300 patents. His innovations in IC chip design have revolutionized data storage and electronics globally. The book's last chapter details the contributions of Engineer Jasbir Singh Sethi and Dr. Santokh Singh Badesha. It is pointed out that Sethi contributed significantly to engineering in the U.S., while Badesha holds over 270 U.S. patents and advises the U.S. government. Together, they exemplify Sikh excellence in technical innovation and policy leadership.
One of the book’s standout features is its use of non-technical language to explain complex scientific concepts. Terms like “optical activity” (Chapter 2) and “fluorescein angiography” (Chapter 4) are simplified without sacrificing accuracy, making the content approachable for readers without a scientific background. This aligns with the book’s goal of inspiring young aspirants, as stated in the preface: “Aspiring to Inspire the Aspirants of Scientific Knowledge.”
The book seamlessly weaves Sikh philosophy and spirituality into the narrative, portraying science as a pursuit of truth that aligns with the teachings of the Sikh Gurus. The dedication to the Ten Sikh Gurus and Sri Guru Granth Sahib underscores this connection, while quotes like “Contemplation and Reflection upon Learning are for the Benefit of Others” (SGGS, Page 6) reinforce the altruistic motivations of these scientists. This integration makes the book a unique contribution to both scientific and cultural literature.
The epilogue and appendices, particularly the note on “The Unsung Heroes of Science,” address the systemic oversight of Indian and Sikh scientists in global recognition, such as Dr. Narinder Singh Kapany’s exclusion from the Nobel Prize despite his foundational work in fiber optics. This critical perspective adds depth, encouraging readers to reflect on biases in scientific accolades.
Some Prominent Sikh Scientists is a timely and significant work, particularly in an era where diversity in STEM is increasingly valued. By spotlighting Sikh scientists, the book challenges Eurocentric narratives in scientific history and celebrates the global impact of a community often underrepresented in such contexts. Its emphasis on philanthropy—evident in Dr. Kapany’s establishment of the Sikh Foundation or Dr. Harkishan Singh’s founding of NIPER—highlights the societal benefits of scientific innovation.
For young readers, especially those from the Sikh diaspora, the book offers role models who embody the fusion of intellectual rigour and cultural pride. Educators and researchers will find the appendices valuable for their references to primary sources, such as research papers and patents, facilitating further study.
Some Prominent Sikh Scientists is a remarkable book that honours the past and inspires the future. It encourages readers, especially the youth, to dream boldly and serve humanity through science. The lives profiled in this book demonstrate that true scientific greatness is born not only of intellect but also of compassion, humility, and an unwavering commitment to truth.
Professor Dr. Surjit Singh Bhatti’s Some Prominent Sikh Scientists is a commendable effort to document and celebrate the extraordinary contributions of Sikh scientists. Its blend of scientific exposition, biographical storytelling, and cultural reverence makes it a unique and inspiring read. The book succeeds in its mission to inform and motivate. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of science, Sikh heritage, or the power of perseverance in the face of challenges.
