When science is fun

At the release of his book, The Cosmic Detective, Dr Mani Bhaumik reveals why young and curious minds excite the writer in him

Inspiring thought: Dr Mani Bhaumik's interest in science and spirituality led him to author two books The Cosmic Detective and Code Name God Pic/Satish Badiger

At the release of his book, The Cosmic Detective, Dr Mani Bhaumik reveals why young and curious minds excite the writer in himDr Mani Bhaumik is a physicist, international best-selling author, celebrated lecturer, entrepreneur and philanthropist. "I am passionate about science. It has not only enlightened us but also made life simpler in terms of technology," he says.

His current interest is in sharing the advancements in quantum physics and cosmology and their implications on our lives and our work. This he does through books, articles, lectures and TV programmes.

Long journey

Born in a village in West Bengal, he confesses that life was never easy. "I walked four miles barefoot everyday to school, enduring famine, flood and poverty." The struggle had its bonuses. "I got to meet Mahatma Gandhiji when he visited my village during the independence struggle. I was a teenager then," he recalls, voice trailing off.

Working in Los Angeles doesn't mean that India is far from his thoughts. "I make a trip back home once or twice a year. India holds a special place in my heart," he adds.

Strange unrest

As a leader of the laser development team at the Northgroup Corporation Research and Technology Centre in Los Angeles, Bhaumik announced the successful demonstration of the world's first efficient excimer laser in 1973. It is now used in Lasik eye surgery to eliminate the need for spectacles or contact lenses.

"After the invention of the laser, I earned enough money but I was not happy. I realised that everyone was getting richer but there was a void in our lives. The excitement was there for me but I did not feel fulfilled.

That is when I realised that spirituality was essential. I also questioned myself if I could believe in spirituality being a scientist. I did find the connection between science and spirituality and this profound truth changed my life. That is when I decided to write a book, to bring this liberating thought out in the open," he explains.

For curious minds

His book, The Cosmic Detective, is a primer on cosmology. "My new book is not just for children though I started the book with children in mind, as they are more receptive than adults. But I realised that all young minds would be interested to know the facts in this book. My next book will be using consciousness to fight stress and other ills," he says.

He has worked on an animated TV series called Quantum Ray. "Kids love television, so I decided to put together a series that makes science fun."

Bhaumik, who has an active interest in community work, is associated with Los Angeles-Bombay Sister City Association, the Los Angeles-St Petersburg Sister City Association and the Long Beach-Calcutta Sister City Association.u00a0

'Where's the debate?'

He has created the Bhaumik Educational Foundation in Kolkata, which provides full scholarships to needy kids who wish to study science and technology. "I hope to start a university in Kolkata soon," says the indefatigable man.

"There are differences between religion and science even to this day, especially in the western world. Over the years, science has put an end to superstitions. Science and spirituality are two sides of the same coin, the coin being the unique human consciousness that allows us to perceive both objective reality and ourselves," he says.