RP Bambah Passes Away: Prof RP Bambah, an iconic figure in the world of mathematics and former Vice-Chancellor of Panjab University, breathed his last on Monday morning at his residence in Sector 19, Chandigarh. Just a few months away from turning 100, Prof Bambah’s life was a remarkable journey of intellect, service, and dedication to the academic world.
A recipient of the Padma Bhushan and the Ramanujan Medal, Prof RP Bambah was not just a scholar of global repute but also a visionary who left an enduring legacy at Panjab University. His passing has left the academic community in mourning. Yet, it has also reignited memories of a man who remained deeply devoted to the cause of mathematics till his final days. His daughters, Bindu A Bambah and Sucharu Khanna, now carry forward his values. “He was a scientist till the very last,” Bindu said. “He had pledged his body to PGI Chandigarh for research, and we will honour that wish. He lived a good life.”
Known for his unwavering commitment, Prof RP Bambah continued as Professor Emeritus at the Department of Mathematics, Panjab University, long after his retirement. His family fondly recalled how the university was the very centre of his world. Even in his final days, he remained keen on learning, often watching lectures on YouTube and reading the Chandigarh Tribune to stay updated on university affairs.
Born into a modest family in Jammu, Prof Bambah’s brilliance shone early. His record of scoring 600 out of 600 in his master’s degree from Government College, Lahore, remains unmatched. He then went on to earn his PhD from the University of Cambridge in a record two years, a feat that marked the beginning of an illustrious academic career.
Together with Prof Hans Raj Gupta, he established the Department of Mathematics at Panjab University’s Hoshiarpur campus, which later moved to Chandigarh and became the first Centre of Advanced Study in the university. After a significant tenure at Ohio State University, he returned to serve as Panjab University’s Vice-Chancellor from 1985 to 1991. His leadership during that time is credited with ushering in a new era of academic and infrastructural growth.
His upcoming 100th birth anniversary was to be a double celebration—marking a century of the Punjab School of Mathematics and his own centenary. Panjab University Vice-Chancellor Renu Vig expressed her deep sorrow at the loss, calling it a monumental moment not only for the university but also for the entire mathematical community.
Prof Rajinder Jeet Hans-Gill, one of his longtime students who visited him just last week, recalled that despite his illness, Prof Bambah was still mentally alert and eager to discuss mathematical problems. “It was shocking to hear of his passing,” she said. “He was truly devoted to the subject, even till the end.”
In a heartfelt statement, the Panjab University Teachers’ Association remembered him as a humble, duty-bound man whose contributions went far beyond academia. “He embodied the spirit of a true scientist. His decision to donate his body is the ultimate testament to his commitment to advancing knowledge.”
Prof RP Bambah’s life was one of brilliance, integrity, and tireless pursuit of knowledge. Though he may have left this world, his legacy will continue to inspire generations of scholars and educators for years to come.
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