{"id":3674,"date":"2026-08-14T08:16:57","date_gmt":"2026-08-14T08:16:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/library.iiap.res.in\/collaborate\/?p=3674"},"modified":"2026-08-14T12:00:56","modified_gmt":"2026-08-14T12:00:56","slug":"founders-day-2026-honouring-the-legacy-of-dr-m-k-vainu-bappu-at-iia-bengaluru","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/library.iiap.res.in\/collaborate\/?p=3674","title":{"rendered":"Founders\u2019 Day 2026: Honouring the Legacy of Dr. M. K. Vainu Bappu at IIA, Bengaluru"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) celebrated Founders\u2019 Day on 10 August 2026, commemorating the centenary birth anniversary of Dr. M. K. Vainu Bappu, one of the pioneers of modern astronomy in India, and honouring his enduring vision, scientific contributions, and legacy. The occasion brought together the IIA community to remember the life and achievements of its founder and to reflect on the remarkable foundations he laid for astronomical research in India.<\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"\"
Celebration at IIA Bengaluru<\/strong><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

The celebrations commenced with a solemn tribute to Dr. M. K. Vainu Bappu through the garlanding of his portrait. Shri Kris Gopalakrishnan, Chairperson, Axilor Ventures and Co-founder of Infosys, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, along with Prof. Annapurni Subramaniam, Director, Indian Institute of Astrophysics, and members of the Institution. The gathering paid tribute to Dr. Bappu and commemorated his pioneering contributions to the growth and development of astronomy in India.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Garlanding of Dr. M. K. Vainu Bappu\u2019s portrait during Founders\u2019 Day 2026.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Following the garlanding ceremony, a special archival exhibition was organised by the Library Team as part of the Founders\u2019 Day celebrations. The exhibition brought together a carefully curated selection of photographs, manuscripts, publications, and other archival materials, offering visitors a glimpse into the life, work, and remarkable journey of Dr. M. K. Vainu Bappu. The exhibition provided an opportunity to engage with the historical records associated with his scientific career and to appreciate the institutional heritage connected with his work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Exploring the archival exhibition presented as part of Founders\u2019 Day 2026.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The exhibition traced Bappu\u2019s journey from his early life and his association with the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, His key role in the establishment and development of the Kavalur Observatory, and his significant contributions in IIA Bangalore.. It also showcased his milestones, awards and recognitions, scientific publications, and photographs with eminent personalities, presenting different aspects of his scientific career and the lasting impact of his work on Indian astronomy. As part of the celebration, a selfie standee featuring Dr. M. K. Vainu Bappu was arranged for students, faculty members, scientists, and visitors, providing an interactive opportunity to participate in the celebrations and capture memories of the occasion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n