Radhanath Sikdar (1813-1870)
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | The Great Trigonometrical Survey |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | June 28, 2004 |
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 800,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 x 13½ |
| Printer | Calcutta Security Printers Ltd |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 2031 Stamp Number IN 2066 Yvert et Tellier IN 1797 Stanley Gibbons IN 2209 WADP Numbering System - WNS IN017.04 |
| Themes | Famous people | Geodesy and Surveying | Headgear | Men |
Table of Contents
Radhanath Sikdar (1813-1870)
Radhanath Sikdar was a notable figure in the history of Indian surveying and geography, best known for his significant contributions to the Great Trigonometrical Survey of India. Here’s an overview of his life and accomplishments:
Early Life
Birth:
Radhanath Sikdar was born in 1813 in the village of Bangaon, located in the district of Kolkata, West Bengal, India.
Education:
He was educated at a time when education in India was limited, especially for people from lower socio-economic backgrounds. He displayed a keen interest in mathematics and geography from a young age.
Career and Contributions
- Joining the Survey: Sikdar joined the Survey of India in 1831 at the young age of 18. He became a prominent member of the team working under the leadership of Sir George Everest.
- Role in the Great Trigonometrical Survey: Sikdar served as the Chief Computer in the Great Trigonometrical Survey (GTS), a monumental project aimed at measuring the meridian arc from southern India to Nepal. His expertise in mathematics was crucial for the survey’s success.
- Calculation of Mount Everest’s Height: He is credited with calculating the height of Mount Everest, then known as Peak XV, using trigonometric methods. In 1856, he published the height as 29,002 feet (8,840 meters), making it the highest peak in the world.
- Auxiliary Tables: Sikdar prepared the first edition of the Auxiliary Tables, which were essential for trigonometric calculations in the survey. His contributions were significant in ensuring the accuracy of the measurements taken during the survey.
- Manual of Surveying for India: He also assisted in compiling the Manual of Surveying for India, which served as an important reference for future surveyors.
Legacy
- Retirement: Radhanath Sikdar retired from the Survey of India in March 1862, leaving behind a legacy of precise measurements and advancements in surveying techniques.
- Death: He passed away on May 17, 1870.
- Recognition: Sikdar’s contributions have been recognized in various forms, including commemorative stamps issued by the Indian Postal Service to honor his work in the field of surveying.
Conclusion
Radhanath Sikdar’s life and work exemplify the spirit of dedication and scientific inquiry during the British colonial period in India. His calculations and contributions were instrumental in advancing the field of surveying and mapping in India, marking him as a significant figure in the history of geodesy and cartography. If you’d like to know more about specific aspects of his life or work, feel free to ask!