Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, commonly known as Sir M. Visvesvaraya, was an eminent Indian engineer, scholar, and statesman. He was born on September 15, 1861, in Muddenahalli, a village in Karnataka, India, during the British colonial rule. He is celebrated as one of India’s most influential engineers and was instrumental in the development of India’s industrial and economic infrastructure.

Visvesvaraya completed his education in engineering from College of Science in Pune (now, Government College of Engineering, Pune). He later pursued his civil engineering studies from the prestigious College of Engineering, Pune (then known as Poona Engineering College). After completing his education, he began his career in the Indian Irrigation Commission.

Visvesvaraya’s expertise in engineering and his innovative ideas played a pivotal role in several significant projects. He designed and patented a unique system of automatic weir water floodgates, which were used to raise the water level in reservoirs, making it easier to store water during monsoons. His contributions to the construction of dams, bridges, and water supply systems were vital in transforming the landscape of various regions in India.

Visvesvaraya served as the Dewan (chief minister) of the princely state of Mysore (now Karnataka) between 1912 and 1918. During his tenure, he implemented several progressive reforms and initiatives, including the establishment of the Mysore University, the Mysore Chamber of Commerce, and the setting up of the Government Engineering College in Bangalore.

Visvesvaraya was honored with numerous awards during his lifetime. He was knighted by the British Crown in 1915 and received the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in 1955. He was also conferred with honorary memberships by various professional institutions and universities, both in India and abroad.

Sir M. Visvesvaraya’s legacy is celebrated annually in India as Engineer’s Day on September 15th, his birthday. His contributions to engineering, governance, and nation-building continue to inspire generations of engineers and administrators. His life and work stand as a testament to the power of education, innovation, and dedication in shaping a nation’s progress.