‘He has been the cause and the sole cause of the spirit of enquiry after truth.’ Explain the significance of the statement by Radhanath Sikdar.

The Great Trigonometrical Survey and its Context

The Great Trigonometrical Survey (GTS), initiated in 1802 by Sir George Everest, was a monumental undertaking aimed at mapping the Indian subcontinent with unprecedented accuracy. It was driven by both scientific curiosity and strategic military needs of the British East India Company. The survey employed complex mathematical techniques and required immense logistical effort. However, the initial phases were largely dominated by British surveyors.

Radhanath Sikdar’s Contribution

Radhanath Sikdar joined the GTS in 1844 as a computer (a mathematical calculator). He quickly demonstrated exceptional mathematical skills and rose through the ranks. In 1852, he was assigned the task of calculating the height of Peak XV, based on observations made by George Everest’s successor, Andrew Waugh.

• Independent Calculation: Sikdar, working independently, calculated the height of Peak XV to be 29,002 feet (8,840 meters) using data collected over several years. This was significantly higher than previous estimates.
• Challenging Established Norms: His calculations were initially met with skepticism by Waugh, who, despite acknowledging the accuracy of Sikdar’s work, hesitated to announce it publicly. Waugh’s reluctance stemmed from several factors, including a desire to avoid controversy and a preference for maintaining British control over the narrative of scientific discovery.
• The Announcement and its Impact: Ultimately, in 1857, Waugh announced that Peak XV was the highest mountain in the world, but notably, he did not explicitly credit Sikdar with the calculation. The mountain was named Mount Everest after Sir George Everest, despite his own objections.

The ‘Spirit of Enquiry After Truth’

Sikdar’s achievement, despite the lack of immediate recognition, resonated deeply within Indian intellectual circles. It symbolized the potential of Indian scholars to contribute significantly to scientific knowledge, challenging the prevailing colonial narrative of European superiority.

Impact on Indian Intellectuals

• Breaking Colonial Stereotypes: Sikdar’s work demonstrated that Indians were capable of rigorous scientific inquiry and could excel in fields traditionally dominated by Europeans.
• Inspiring a New Generation: His success inspired a new generation of Indian scientists, mathematicians, and intellectuals to pursue knowledge and challenge established norms.
• Nationalist Sentiment: The story of Sikdar’s contribution, though initially suppressed, became a source of nationalist pride, highlighting the intellectual capabilities of Indians.

The Broader Socio-Political Context

The mid-19th century in India was a period of growing social and political unrest, culminating in the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857. Sikdar’s work occurred against this backdrop, and his achievement can be seen as a subtle form of resistance against colonial domination. The pursuit of truth, as exemplified by Sikdar, was a challenge to the colonial power structure that sought to control knowledge and suppress Indian intellectual expression.

Later Life and Recognition

Despite his groundbreaking work, Sikdar faced limited recognition during his lifetime. He was passed over for promotions and faced discrimination within the GTS. He retired in 1862 and spent his final years in relative obscurity. However, in recent decades, there has been a growing effort to acknowledge his contributions and restore his rightful place in the history of science.