Science GK: Bihar mathematician who challenged Einstein’s E = mc², from whom NASA took help when the computer failed

From Police Constable’s Son to PhD

The son of a police constable, Vasishtha Narayan studied at Netarhat School in Jharkhand and then Patna Science College. he/she was considered a mathematician since childhood.

The principal of the college was so impressed by his/her talent that he/she recommended him/her to the governor and the chancellor of the university and got his/her education completed fast. In 1969, he/she received his/her PhD degree.

Spent 9 years in America

Recognizing his/her talent, Professor John L. Kelley invited Vasishta Narayan to come to the University of California, Berkeley. After spending about 9 years in the US, Vasishta Narayan returned to India.

he/she taught at prestigious institutions like IIT Kanpur, TIFR Mumbai and ISI Kolkata.

Challenge to Einstein, NASA took help when computer failed

Vasishtha Narayan is said to have challenged Einstein’s famous theory of relativity E = mc². Stories tell that NASA called him/her for help when their computer stopped working. he/she also contributed to the Apollo mission, which aimed to land man on the moon.

victim of mental illness

Soon after his/her marriage, he/she developed schizophrenia which led to divorce and a decline in his/her academic credentials. After treatment, Vasishtha Narayan suddenly disappeared during a train journey. Years later, he/she was found living as a destitute in his/her village.

BJP MP Shatrughan Sinha arranged for his/her treatment

Vashishtha Narayan Singh was admitted to NIMHANS Bengaluru and then BJP MP Shatrughan Sinha arranged for him/her to be treated at IHBAS Delhi.

Padma Shri Vashishth Narayan Singh

Despite the difficulties, Vashishtha Narayan Singh returned to the field of education and joined BN Mandal University, Madhepura.

Vasishtha Narayan passed away on 14 November 2019 at the age of 72, on which many personalities including the Prime Minister expressed condolences. he/she was also awarded the Padma Shri award posthumously for his/her contribution.