Professor Ramamurthy Balasubramaniam, affectionately known as 'Bala', was a distinguished scholar who left an indelible mark on the field of materials science and archeometallurgy. Born on April 15, 1961, in Salem, Tamil Nadu, Balasubramaniam's journey in the world of metallurgy began with his Bachelor of Technology from the Institute of Technology, Banaras Hindu University, where he graduated as a gold medalist in Metallurgical Engineering. His exceptional performance as an undergraduate student set the stage for a remarkable career that would span decades and revolutionize our understanding of ancient Indian metallurgical practices.
Balasubramaniam's academic prowess was evident early on, as he received the Gandhy Gold medal from BHU and the Vishwa Bharathi Award from the Indian Institute of Metals in 1984. These accolades were just the beginning of a long list of honors that would mark his illustrious career. His thirst for knowledge led him to pursue a PhD in Materials Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, USA. This international exposure broadened his perspective and equipped him with cutting-edge research methodologies that would prove invaluable in his future work.
After completing his doctoral studies and a brief stint as an adjunct faculty at RPI, Balasubramaniam returned to India, driven by a desire to contribute to his homeland's scientific advancement. He joined the faculty of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering at IIT Kanpur in 1990, where he was later promoted to Professor in 2001. His rapid ascent through the academic ranks was a testament to his exceptional research output and teaching abilities. At IIT Kanpur, Balasubramaniam found a nurturing environment that allowed him to pursue his diverse research interests and mentor the next generation of metallurgists.
Throughout his career, Balasubramaniam's research interests spanned a wide range of topics, showcasing his versatility as a scientist. His work in material-hydrogen systems contributed to our understanding of how hydrogen interacts with various materials, a crucial area for industries ranging from energy storage to aerospace. His studies on environmental degradation of materials had practical applications in improving the longevity of structures and equipment exposed to harsh conditions. Balasubramaniam's expertise in structure-property correlation in advanced materials helped bridge the gap between theoretical materials science and practical applications.
However, it was in the field of Indian archeometallurgy that Balasubramaniam truly made his mark. His prolific research output included over 250 papers in reputed journals and 10 books, many of which focused on India's rich metallurgical heritage. Two of his most notable works, "The Saga of Indian Cannons" and "Story of Delhi Iron Pillar," shed light on the advanced metallurgical knowledge possessed by ancient Indian craftsmen. These books not only contributed to academic knowledge but also helped raise public awareness about India's technological achievements in antiquity.
One of Balasubramaniam's most significant contributions was his groundbreaking research on the corrosion resistance of the Delhi Iron Pillar. This 1,600-year-old marvel has withstood the test of time, showing minimal corrosion despite exposure to harsh environmental conditions. Balasubramaniam's work revealed that a thin layer of "misawite," a compound of iron, oxygen, and hydrogen, was responsible for the pillar's remarkable durability. This discovery not only solved a long-standing mystery but also highlighted the sophisticated metallurgical techniques employed by ancient Indian ironworkers. The implications of this research extended beyond historical interest, offering insights into developing more durable modern materials.
Balasubramaniam's expertise was not limited to ancient metallurgy. He was actively involved in contemporary research projects, demonstrating his ability to apply historical knowledge to modern challenges. His work on corrosion prevention in railway tracks under the Technology Mission on Railway Safety was particularly noteworthy. This project showcased how understanding the principles behind the durability of ancient metals could lead to practical solutions for modern infrastructure problems. Balasubramaniam's ability to bridge the gap between ancient techniques and modern applications made him a valuable asset to both academic and industrial circles.
The professor's contributions to the field did not go unnoticed. He received numerous prestigious awards throughout his career, each recognizing a different aspect of his multifaceted expertise. The Young Scientist Award from the Indian National Science Academy (1993) acknowledged his early promise as a researcher. The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation Research Fellowship (1996) provided him with opportunities for international collaboration, further expanding his research horizons. The Metallurgist of the Year award from the Ministry of Steel and Mines, Government of India (1999) recognized his significant contributions to the field of metallurgy at a national level.
Balasubramaniam's excellence in teaching was as remarkable as his research prowess. His ability to explain complex concepts in simple terms and inspire students to pursue research made him a beloved figure in the classroom. This dedication to education was recognized with the inaugural Distinguished Educator Award from the Indian Institute of Metals in 2009, a fitting tribute to his role in shaping the next generation of metallurgists and materials scientists.
Beyond his academic pursuits, Balasubramaniam was known for his passion for cricket and music, both Indian and Western. These interests reflected his well-rounded personality and his belief in the importance of balancing intellectual pursuits with other aspects of life. His love for cricket, a sport that requires both strategy and skill, mirrored his approach to scientific research – methodical yet creative. His appreciation for music, spanning different cultures, was indicative of his open-minded approach to knowledge and his ability to find connections across diverse fields.
Tragically, Balasubramaniam's illustrious career was cut short when he succumbed to cancer on December 9, 2009, at the age of 48. At the time of his passing, he was working on a project to determine the measurement units used in the construction of the Taj Mahal. This final project exemplified his enduring curiosity and his commitment to unraveling the mysteries of India's architectural and metallurgical heritage. Even in his final days, Balasubramaniam continued to push the boundaries of knowledge, seeking to understand the precise techniques used by ancient Indian builders and craftsmen.
The untimely demise of Professor Balasubramaniam left a void in the field of archeometallurgy and materials science. However, his legacy continues to inspire researchers and students alike. His work not only advanced our understanding of ancient metallurgical practices but also demonstrated the relevance of this knowledge to solving contemporary challenges. The methodologies he developed and the questions he raised continue to guide research in the field, ensuring that his impact extends far beyond his lifetime.
In remembering Professor Ramamurthy Balasubramaniam, we celebrate not just a brilliant scientist and educator, but also a visionary who saw the value of understanding our technological past to build a better future. His life's work stands as a testament to the power of curiosity, rigorous research, and the importance of bridging ancient wisdom with modern science. As future generations of scientists and engineers continue to build upon his foundational work, the spirit of 'Bala' lives on, inspiring new discoveries and innovations in the ever-evolving field of materials science and archeometallurgy.
