We lost one of our country’s most illustrious scientific minds with the passing of Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram on Saturday. A towering figure in our scientific community, Dr. Chidambaram was instrumental in shaping the nation’s nuclear program, establishing India as a force to be reckoned with in the global arena. At 88, his legacy as a visionary physicist and a patriotic scientist stands unparalleled. Dr. Chidambaram’s contribution to our nuclear journey is both monumental and enduring. He played a pivotal role in the Pokhran-I nuclear test in 1974 and the Pokhran-II tests in 1998, achievements that underscored India’s technological self-reliance and strategic capability. His expertise in condensed matter physics and nuclear science, combined with his unwavering commitment to national interests, made him an indispensable leader in these historic milestones. Born in 1936, Dr. Chidambaram’s academic brilliance was evident early on. After earning his doctorate from the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru, he joined the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), where he rose to prominence. His research in crystallography and high-pressure physics earned him global recognition, but it was his leadership at BARC that solidified his reputation as a trailblazer. As its Director from 1990 to 1996, he guided India’s nuclear energy and weapons program through some of its most challenging phases. The Pokhran-II tests, conducted under his stewardship as Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, were a defining moment in India’s history. Despite international pressure and technological embargoes, we demonstrated our capability as a nuclear state, thanks to the meticulous planning and scientific rigor championed by Dr. Chidambaram. This achievement was not merely a demonstration of strength but a declaration of our right to safeguard our sovereignty. Beyond his contributions to defense, Dr. Chidambaram was a passionate advocate for peaceful applications of nuclear energy. He envisioned nuclear power as a solution to India’s energy challenges and worked tirelessly to advance research in this field. He also championed international scientific collaboration, serving as Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India from 2001 to 2018, a role in which he advocated for harnessing science for societal benefit. Dr. Chidambaram’s legacy is one of dedication, intellect, and an unyielding commitment to India’s progress. As we mourn his loss, we celebrate a life that exemplified the highest ideals of scientific excellence and national service. His contributions will continue to inspire generations of scientists and leaders, reminding us of the power of knowledge and determination in shaping our nation’s destiny.