Hyderabad to Host Street Science Carnival in Adilabad
Hyderabad, December 12 - Adilabad will transform into a hub of scientific inquiry from December 14-16 with the hosting of the 'Street Science Carnival', an event aimed at engaging high school students in science through interactive sessions with leading scientists. This initiative marks the culmination of a statewide science education campaign, with participants selected from over 10 lakh students who participated in the 'Chekumuki' science assessment on November 7, coinciding with Sir CV Raman's birth anniversary.
Organized by Jana Vignana Vedika, the carnival will see 500 students from across Telangana engaging in hands-on demonstrations intended to debunk myths and superstitions, promoting a scientific outlook among the youth. "Our goal is to instill a scientific temper in students by showing them that superstitions have no scientific basis," stated Nuthala Ravindar, a senior teacher and official with Jana Vignana Vedika.
Ravindar, known for his bold experiments against superstition, famously spent a night in a classroom believed to be haunted, demonstrating there was nothing to fear. This event, held on Amavasya, aimed to dispel fears of ghosts among students. He remarked on the lack of Indian Nobel laureates in science post-independence, underscoring the need for robust science education to propel India forward.
In another instance, Ravindar tackled the superstition surrounding lemons placed on roads, believed by some to bring bad luck. By squeezing and drinking the juice from these lemons, he proved their harmlessness, furthering his campaign against superstition.
The 'Street Science Carnival' will also feature notable scientists like former CCMD director Ch Mohan Rao and former NIMS director Dasari Prasad Rao, who will aid in debunking so-called "magical powers" through scientific demonstrations. This event not only aims to foster critical thinking but also to inspire the next generation of scientists, drawing inspiration from figures like Sir CV Raman, whose work continues to influence scientific education in India.
The carnival promises to be a significant step towards enlightening students about the wonders of science and the importance of rational thinking in modern India.