It's Open Day in IISc today! Which means that the gates of the institute and all that's kept hidden inside is 'open' to the public today. This is done each year on the occasion of National Science Day and the institute quite turns into a colorful science carnival, just for a day. It translates into departments almost competing with each other to come up with the most attractive exhibits, activities, demonstrations and games which will catch the attention of young school and college children, and give them a peek into the fascinating world of science which lies beyond their textbooks. The campus too takes on a very festive look with hundreds (possibly, thousands) of pots of colorful seasonal flowers and foliage, dotting the many nooks and corners. While this initiative is meant as a service to the public, whose money funds the bulk of our research, and to encourage more students to study science; I personally relish each year the creativity that comes in briefly into our stressful routines in the quest for making our work as appealing to the lay man as possible. The greater (but sometimes more rewarding) challenge lies in conveying the ideas and concepts to children of varying ages, often as young as 5 or 6 years. For most visitors it's just another school/college outing and for many, a 'legitimate' day long hangout with friends. Then there are some who come with their encouraging families. But hidden among these crowds, there are many kids who really relish the experiences as they go about satisfying their curiosity. It's not difficult to recognize them from the twinkle in their eyes as they soak it all in, often questioning innocently and without reserve.
It's been a while since I have been resigned to the sidelines as our lab prepares for the occasion, with my responsibilities now limited to advising the juniors (and I am not complaining!). But today as I look at the crowds thronging the campus with a constant buzz of activity and excitement, from a distance; I recall the Open Days of a just few years back. A time when I myself actively enjoyed the preparations, the interactions, and visiting exhibits at various other departments; and I realize with a twinge of sadness that like many other things, this is my 'last one' here!
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| The secrets in our genes... |
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| Floral extravaganza at the main building |
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| The other side of open day ;) |
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