Science and Rationalists' Association of India

The Science and Rationalists' Association of India (Bengali: ভারতীয় বিজ্ঞান ও যুক্তিবাদী সমিতি, Bharatiya Bigyan O Yuktibadi Samiti) is a rationalist group based in Kolkata, India.

Science and Rationalists' Association of India
Non-profit organisation
IndustryEducation
Founded1985, Kolkata, India
HeadquartersKolkata, India
Websitewww.srai.org/ 

History

Inspired by Sri Lankan rationalists, Dr. Abraham Kovoor, Bengali rationalists established an organisation called 'Bharater Yuktibadi Samity' on March 1, 1985, the international rationalists' day. Two years later, in 1987, it was renamed as 'Bharatiya Bigyan O Yuktibadi Samiti'.[1] Prabir Ghosh, the author of 'Aloukik Noy Loukik' series is the founder secretary and Dr. Dhirendranath Gangopadhyay was the first president of this organisation. Eminent science communicators Amit Chakraborty, Aparajito Basu, Jugalkanti Ray, Shankar Chakraborty and others were also associated during its formation.[2] In 1986, Ghosh published the first book of the 'Aloukik Noy Loukik' series, debunking various superstitious beliefs. It received wide circulation among Bengali readers of both West Bengal and Bangladesh, and the Rationalists' Association gained popularity.[3]

Activities

The main goal of the organisation is to advocate against pseudoscience, astrology and mysticism.

References
  1. Ghosh, Prabir. Sanskriti: Samgharsa O Nirman, Kolkata, 1993, p.67, 80.
  2. Chatterjee, Sabyasachi. The Movement for the Development of Rationalism in West Bengal. IHC:Proceedings, 71st Session, 2010-11 Contemporary History of India, p.1216 - 1217.
  3. Chatterjee, Sabyasachi. The Movement for the Development of Rationalism in West Bengal. IHC:Proceedings, 71st Session, 2010-11 Contemporary History of India, p.1218.
  • Indian 'miracle lake' becomes pilgrim destination by "The Independent" Saturday 29 May 2010
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