Father of Fibre Optics Dr Narinder Singh Kapany remembered on birth centenary at GNDU
Memorial seminar honours his pioneering contribution to science and his efforts to preserve Sikh heritage; Vice-Chancellor calls his life an example of curiosity, innovation and cultural roots
Babushahi Bureau
Amritsar (Punjab), October 31, 2026: Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) commemorated the 100th birth anniversary of Dr Narinder Singh Kapany, globally recognised as the Father of Fibre Optics, with a memorial seminar on Saturday, highlighting his pioneering contributions to science, entrepreneurship and the promotion of Sikh heritage.
Dedicated to the 450th anniversary of Sri Amritsar Sahib, the seminar was held under the leadership of Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr) Karamjeet Singh.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Karamjeet Singh said Kapany’s life exemplified the power of curiosity, innovation and cultural roots. He said the scientist’s journey from Punjab to international recognition demonstrated how perseverance and innovative thinking could lead to discoveries that transform society.
The Vice-Chancellor said the best tribute to Kapany would be to inspire young scholars to pursue interdisciplinary research, develop innovative technologies and use knowledge for the welfare of society.
He also highlighted the significance of remembering Kapany during the commemoration of the 450th anniversary of Sri Amritsar Sahib, noting that the scientist remained deeply connected to his Punjabi roots and Sikh heritage despite his global achievements.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. (Dr) Shivanand Kanavi, former Vice-President of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), shared his personal interactions with Kapany and recounted how the scientist’s early fascination with the behaviour of light led to pioneering experiments in optical fibres.
Prof. Kanavi explained how Kapany’s research helped lay the foundations for modern fibre-optic imaging and communication technologies.
He also highlighted Kapany’s entrepreneurial ventures in Silicon Valley and his contributions to medical optics, which helped expand the applications of fibre optics in modern technology.
Recalling Kapany’s efforts to promote Sikh art, history and culture, Prof. Kanavi said the scientist established the Sikh Foundation in 1967 with his wife, Satinder Kaur Kapany.
He also spoke about Kapany’s interactions with Indian scientific and political leaders and the opportunities that emerged for him to contribute to research in India.
Eminent scientists discuss research and innovation
Prof. (Dr) Arun Kumar Grover, former Vice-Chancellor of Panjab University, Chandigarh, attended the seminar as the chief guest.
Prof. (Dr) K. P. Singh, Professor of Physics at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Mohali, and Dr Umesh Kumar Tiwari, Scientist-F at the CSIR-Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIO), Chandigarh, were among the speakers.
Prof. Grover highlighted the importance of scientific research and innovation in addressing emerging challenges.
Prof. K. P. Singh shared his views on scientific advancements and their applications, while Dr Tiwari spoke about the growing role of science and technology in research and development.
At the beginning of the seminar, Prof. H. S. Saini, Dean Academic Affairs, welcomed the guests, faculty members and students. Prof. Ravinder Kumar, the coordinator, introduced the guest speakers, while Prof. K. S. Chahal, Registrar, presented the vote of thanks.
Dr Kuldeep Singh and Dr Rajandeep Singh from the Department of Electronics conducted the proceedings. Teachers, researchers and students from various departments attended the programme.
The seminar concluded with a renewed emphasis on scientific inquiry, innovation and the responsibility of educational institutions to nurture talent while remaining connected to cultural heritage.