Padma Bhushan Recipient and Eminent Mathematician Prof RP Bambah Passes Away at 99

Chandigarh (The Uttam Hindu): Professor Ram Prakash Bambah, a distinguished mathematician and former Vice-Chancellor of Panjab University, passed away on Monday morning at his Sector 19 residence in Chandigarh. He was 99 years old and would have celebrated his centennial birthday this September.

A Life of Brilliance

Born into a middle-class family in Jammu, Prof. Bambah's academic brilliance was evident from an early age. He achieved a record-breaking 600 out of 600 marks in his master's degree at Government College, Lahore, paving the way for his PhD at the University of Cambridge, which he completed in just two years.

Contributions to Mathematics

Prof. Bambah played a pivotal role in establishing the Department of Mathematics at Panjab University, alongside Prof. Hans Raj Gupta. He later served as the Vice-Chancellor of the university from 1985 to 1991, driving its growth and development. His dedication to mathematics was unwavering and he continued to serve as Professor Emeritus, Department of Mathematics, until his passing.

"He was a scientist till the very last as he had pledged his body to the PGI, Chandigarh, for research. The family will honour his wish. He lived a good life," said Bindu, his daughter. 

Vice-Chancellor Renu Vig described his passing as a significant loss to mathematics, the university, and society. "Panjab University was preparing to celebrate a century of the Punjab School of Mathematics and the birth centenary of Prof Bambah in September this year. His passing away is a big loss to mathematics, the university and society," she said.

Prof. Rajinder Jeet Hans-Gill, his student, said, "His passing away has come as a shock since we were still discussing only mathematics when I met him on Wednesday. He was unwell but alert."

The Panjab University Teachers' Association praised Prof. Bambah's visionary leadership and commitment to advancing knowledge, highlighting his selfless decision to donate his body for research purposes. "We remember him as a kind, conscientious, and duty-bound individual who embodied the spirit of a true scientist. His selfless decision to donate his body reflects his commitment to advancing knowledge," the statement said.

Prof. Bambah was a recipient of the prestigious Padma Bhushan and Ramanujan Medal for his outstanding contributions to mathematics.