Acharya Prafulla Chandra Roy: The Father of Indian Chemistry and a Pioneer of Nationalism

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🧪 Acharya Prafulla Chandra Roy: Father of Indian Chemistry and Champion of Swadeshi Science 



🔬 Who Was Prafulla Chandra Roy?

Acharya Prafulla Chandra Roy (1861–1944) was not just a renowned chemist but also a visionary educationist, industrialist, and nationalist. Born in Khilpara, Bengal Presidency (now in Bangladesh), he became the father of Indian chemistry and one of the first Indian scientists to achieve international recognition in modern chemistry.

His life was a blend of science, Swadeshi ideals, and a deep commitment to education and nation-building.

🧑‍🔬 Early Life and Education

  • Born on 2 August 1861, Prafulla was deeply influenced by his progressive father, Harish Chandra Roy.

  • He studied at Presidency College, Calcutta, and later went to University of Edinburgh for higher studies in chemistry.

  • He earned his Doctor of Science (D.Sc) in 1887 and returned to India in 1888.

🏛️ Career Highlights

🔹 Founder of Bengal Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals (BCPL)

In 1892, Acharya Roy established Bengal Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals, India's first pharmaceutical company. This was a Swadeshi milestone, challenging British dominance in chemicals and medicines.



🔹 Pioneer in Modern Chemistry in India

  • Conducted groundbreaking research in nitrites, nitrates, mercury compounds, and organic chemistry.

  • His work on mercurous nitrite earned global recognition.

  • Authored a famous book: "A History of Hindu Chemistry", highlighting India's rich scientific heritage.

🔹 Educationist and Professor

  • Taught at Presidency College, Calcutta.

  • Known as “Acharya” (teacher) for his dedication to students and scientific inquiry.

  • Guided and inspired many future scientists like Meghnad Saha and Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar.

🇮🇳 Prafulla Chandra Roy: A Nationalist Visionary

Acharya Roy believed in economic self-reliance, promoting Swadeshi industries and science education. He used science as a tool for social change.

  • Actively participated in the Swadeshi movement.

  • Advocated for industrial development as a form of patriotism.

  • Lived a simple, Gandhian lifestyle, though he was never wealthy despite his success.

🌟 Awards and Legacy

  • Knighted by the British in 1919 (later gave up titles in protest).

  • Celebrated as one of the earliest global Indian scientists.

  • His birthday is observed as National Chemists Day in some institutions.

📜 Inspirational Quotes by Acharya Roy:

“Science can wait, but man cannot.”
“What the country needs today is work—work in every sphere.”

📚 Why Students Should Learn About Prafulla Chandra Roy

For students of Science, Chemistry, or Indian History, Acharya Roy’s life teaches:

  • Scientific curiosity with national purpose

  • Leadership in education and industry

  • Courage to build from scratch

  • Importance of Swadeshi and Atmanirbharta (self-reliance)


🧭 Conclusion

Acharya Prafulla Chandra Roy was much more than a scientist. He was a builder of modern India, a torchbearer of Indian science, and a patriot in a lab coat.

He taught us that knowledge must serve the nation. His life remains a beacon of inspiration for generations of students, educators, and entrepreneurs.

📌 Related Reads:


Location: India, New York, USA, India

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