Remembering and Honouring the Life and Legacy of Dr K. Kasturirangan

We join his family, and all Indians, who mourn the passing of this great scientist and honour his life and legacy. A visionary leader, Dr Kasturirangan shaped India's space program, contributed to environmental conservation, led the creation of a transformative education policy for the country, and contributed in many other ways to nation-building. India will forever be grateful for his brilliance, nobility, and dedication and his many contributions. A pioneer and guiding force, his legacy will continue to inspire generations across multiple fields of endeavour.

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We recollect Dr Kasturirangan’s visit to the university campus about 10 years ago. After seeing the campus he was so emotionally moved by the passion, quality, and sincerity of the team, that there were tears in his eyes. He immediately offered to make a contribution which he did. His response highlights not just his appreciation of TDU’s work but his remarkably sensitive personality that was so empathetic towards diverse worthy causes that were far removed from his own expertise and pre-occupations. He spontaneously encouraged our team members, not  merely in words but with meaningful action. Many people who know him indifferent contexts are likely to narrate similar stories of his spontaneous contribution to causes that moved him.

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Dr. Kasturirangan’s multi-faceted appreciation of pluralism in culture made him a strong advocate for India's rich indigenous knowledge in several fields including satellite imagery and archaeology. His support and mentorship of TDU has helped us advance the interface of systemic and molecular understanding of biological change, fostering innovation in healthcare and food sciences. For some colleagues in our organisation who worked closely with him, his passing is a personal loss.

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Rest in peace, Dr. Kasturirangan. Your contributions will continue to live in our hearts and minds, and your mentorship will continue to guide our work.

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