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23 August 2024 at 4:29:04 pm

Guru of Gurus: Tribute to M.M. Sharma

Luminaries of science and industry at the launch of "Guru of Gurus" at the ICT in Mumabi. Mumbai: In an evening marked by deep reverence and scientific celebration, eminent scientist Dr. Raghunath Anant Mashelkar paid a moving tribute to his mentor, Padma Vibhushan awardee Prof. Man Mohan Sharma. The heartfelt reverence took center stage at the K.V. Auditorium of the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), where academicians, students, and industry leaders gathered to honor one of India’s...

Guru of Gurus: Tribute to M.M. Sharma

Luminaries of science and industry at the launch of "Guru of Gurus" at the ICT in Mumabi. Mumbai: In an evening marked by deep reverence and scientific celebration, eminent scientist Dr. Raghunath Anant Mashelkar paid a moving tribute to his mentor, Padma Vibhushan awardee Prof. Man Mohan Sharma. The heartfelt reverence took center stage at the K.V. Auditorium of the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), where academicians, students, and industry leaders gathered to honor one of India’s most distinguished chemical engineers. Speaking passionately at the event, Dr. Mashelkar affectionately addressed Prof. Sharma as his revered "guru." He reflected extensively on Prof. Sharma's pioneering contributions to chemical engineering, placing special emphasis on his unique and visionary approach to science. Dr. Mashelkar noted that his mentor possessed the rare ability to seamlessly bridge the gap between complex fundamental research and tangible, real-world industrial applications. For Dr. Mashelkar, the occasion was not just a formal celebration, but a deeply personal reflection on a mentor whose teachings have left an indelible mark on both academia and the broader industrial landscape of the nation. This gathering of scientific and industrial minds was organized to mark the launch of two significant publications that encapsulate Prof. Sharma’s extraordinary legacy. The releases included a newly penned Gujarati biography and a beautifully curated coffee table book aptly titled "Guru of Gurus," published by Sundaram Digital Publication House. Both works chronicle his unparalleled contributions to science, his philosophy of knowledge-sharing, and his lifelong dedication to mentoring generations of talent. The sentiment of deep respect initiated by Dr. Mashelkar was echoed by other dignitaries throughout the evening. Guest of Honour Madhukar Parekh, Chairman of Pidilite Industries, expanded on this narrative by highlighting Prof. Sharma’s profound structural influence on India’s scientific framework. Parekh emphasized how Prof. Sharma’s steadfast commitment to innovation and his role as an institution-builder have actively shaped countless leaders, entrepreneurs, and technologists across various sectors. Taking the podium amidst the tributes, Prof. Man Mohan Sharma looked toward the future rather than simply reflecting on his past achievements. He shared his enduring dream of elevating ICT to the prestigious status of a Central University, underscoring the institute's immense potential to evolve into a world-class, globally competitive center for science and engineering. Ultimately, the event stood as a fitting and intellectually enriching celebration of a legendary figure. Through the poignant reflections of esteemed peers like Dr. Mashelkar and the launch of these new literary works, the gathering immortalized Prof. Sharma not just for his scientific brilliance, but for his profound dedication to nation-building and his lifelong, guiding role as the ultimate "guru of gurus."

NIA may seek Tahawwur Rana’s voice sample to link him to 26/11 calls



The National Investigation Agency (NIA), which currently has Pakistani-Canadian businessman Tahawwur Rana in its custody following his extradition, may seek to collect his voice sample to verify call records related to the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.


By comparing the voice sample with recorded calls, authorities aim to confirm whether Rana was involved in phone conversations giving instructions during the November 2008 attacks that killed 166 people in Mumbai.


Rana’s consent is required for the collection of his voice sample. If he refuses, the NIA can approach the court for permission. In case of refusal, this fact will be included in the chargesheet, which could work against him during trial proceedings.


Once permission is secured, experts from the Central Forensic Science Laboratory will visit the NIA headquarters to collect the sample in a noise-free environment.


Since his extradition from the United States on Thursday, Rana has been kept and questioned at the high-security NIA headquarters located in the CGO Complex in New Delhi. During interrogation, officials are trying to uncover more about a man Rana met in Dubai before the Mumbai attacks and the unexplained non-renewal of a Mumbai office lease registered under Rana’s immigration agency. This office was reportedly used by 26/11 mastermind David Headley as cover while surveying targets, including prominent hotels and public places across Mumbai.


The NIA’s 18-day interrogation is also expected to explore the roles of Pakistani nationals Ilyas Kashmiri and Abdur Rehman in the attacks. Investigators may further question Rana about other key conspirators such as Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and Sajid Majeed Mir.


Rana has spoken to officials about his background in Pakistan, his family, education, immigration to Canada with his wife, and the launch of his immigration and travel agency in Chicago.


According to NIA sources, Rana was “largely uncooperative” on the first day of questioning and provided limited information.


Rana, who previously worked in the Pakistan Army Medical Corps, has told investigators that he cannot recall many details of the events but has confirmed being in Mumbai at least a week before the attacks.


Earlier, in 2010, David Headley, also known as Daood Gilani, was questioned by an NIA team in the US. He was convicted there for his role in the 26/11 attacks.

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