India’s genius engineer – The Hindu

It was about 10.00 a.m. Taran and his family had driven from Bengaluru and swerved off the highway near Chikkaballapura. Google Maps said they had about eight kms more to go. The drive was pleasant with the majestic Nandi Hills in the backdrop.

Soon, they arrived at Muddenahalli, a tiny village that looked like any other in South India. Except that this was the birthplace of India’s legendary civil engineer, Sir M. Viswesaraya or Sir MV. They had come looking for his home, which had been converted into a museum.

Appa and Amma were wondering if they had the correct location when a school bus screeched to a halt beside their car. “This must be the right place. Students have come for a study tour,” remarked Appa, as hordes of chattering students got off. Taran followed them into the museum. On display were Sir Viswesaraya’s personal belongings, such as his books, pen, spectacles, and visiting cards, as well as official clothes from when he served as the Diwan of the Mysore State before Independence.

Down memory lane

“Look Amma, he has received the Bharat Ratna award, India’s highest civilian honour,” said Taran.

“He contributed to many public works across the country. His first big idea was when he designed an automatic water floodgates system for the Khadakvasla Reservoir, near Pune. He earned a name as a problem solver. He used to be invited across the country for mega civil engineering projects. He was truly a visionary who modernised states and solved many irrigation issues,” stated Amma, while looking at some framed newspaper articles.

As, the students rushed out, still chattering and excited, the teacher said, “Do not miss the street light Sir MV studied under.”

So, Taran, Amma and Appa walked a little and found the famous streetlight. “His father had died early. He walked miles to go to school. He studied hard and went on to get a degree in Engineering from the College of Engineering, Pune,” said Appa.

Next, they walked down a quiet lane and found his memorial. They removed their chappals to pay homage to the great man. A bust had been placed in a small garden. “With the backdrop of the Nandi Hills, this place is so serene, feels spiritual,” whispered Taran.

“He lived to be 100 years old and continued working, writing, and serving the country. He lived simply all his life and never rested on his laurels,” marvelled Amma.

Taran looked at the students talking and enjoying their day out. “Do you think school children fully understand his legacy?” he wondered.

Appa smiled, as he sat down for a minute. “Maybe not today. But they will reflect on their outing to Sir MV’s house, who truly embodied the spirit of ‘Simple Living, High Thinking’.”