This Padma Shri award winner’s dedication to teaching and his important work in physics have deeply benefitted many students, showing how perseverance and passion can make a big difference in education.
For many students and graduates from IIT or NIT, the name Dr Harish Chandra Verma, or Dr HC Verma, is well-known. Hailing from Darbhanga in Bihar, he has achieved a distinguished status in the teaching community. Awarded the Padma Shri in 2021, his influential physics book, 'Concepts of Physics,' has had a profound impact on education. Despite a lack of interest in academics during his early years, his path to becoming a professor at a prestigious institution like IIT is truly inspiring.
Mother's support
Prof HC Verma’s story offers hope to students who feel discouraged about their academic abilities. At the age of 14, he struggled with his studies, finding it hard to remember what he learned despite paying attention in class. He often fell behind his peers, feeling disheartened. However, a simple yet profound piece of advice from his mother turned out to be a pivotal moment in his life.
Motivation
In an interview, Dr HC Verma recounts how his mother gave him a jar of Thekua, a popular Bihari sweet, with a simple yet powerful promise: 'focus on your studies for an hour, and then you can have Thekua.' Perhaps it was her loving approach, but this small effort sparked a significant change in his attitude toward education. After following his mother’s advice, he took his exams in December, and the results were astounding; he passed in all subjects.
IIT Kanpur
This marked the beginning of Dr Verma's transformation. His newfound interest in science led him to Patna Science College, where he pursued his BSc. After passing the GATE exam, he continued his studies at IIT Kanpur, earning both his MSc and PhD. His dedication and hard work eventually earned him a teaching position at Patna Science College, where his journey as a teacher began. Despite his success, he always harboured a desire to innovate and explore new horizons.
Birth of 'Concepts of Physics'
While teaching at Patna Science College, Dr Verma noticed that many students struggled with grasping the complex principles of physics. Determined to make the subject more enjoyable, he decided to write a book that would simplify these concepts. For 8 years, he worked tirelessly to explain physics in straightforward language. This culminated in the creation of 'Concepts of Physics.' His goal was to help students not only understand but also appreciate the subject.
Best selling physics books
When Dr Verma authored 'Concepts of Physics,' he never anticipated that it would become a landmark in the field. Today, this book has become essential for anyone looking to grasp the fundamentals of science. Its enduring popularity has established it as one of the best-selling physics books, a testament to its impact and Dr Verma's commitment to making science accessible and engaging.
Padma Shri Award in 2021
In 2021, Dr HC Verma was honoured with the Padma Shri by the Government of India in recognition of his exceptional contributions to science and education. This award was not just a personal achievement for him but also a proud moment for the countless students who have realized their dreams with his guidance. Today, Professor HC Verma serves as an Emeritus Professor at IIT Kanpur, where he continues to advance the field of science education and inspire new generations of learners.
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