Tribute paid to Dr Baldev Singh, pioneer of neuroscience, at AIMS

The Department of Physiology at Dr B R Ambedkar State Institute of Medical Sciences (AIMS), Mohali, organised a heartfelt and inspiring tribute on April 5 in honour of Dr Baldev Singh, fondly remembered as “The Grandfather Neuron” of Indian neuroscience.

Held on the eve of his birth anniversary, the event celebrated Dr Singh’s extraordinary life, lasting legacy and profound impact on the medical field. Born on April 6, 1904, Dr Baldev Singh rose to become one of India’s most revered neurologists, educators and researchers. Based in Amritsar, he was a pioneer in clinical neurophysiology and significantly advanced the study of electroencephalography (EEG), particularly alpha waves and their relevance to brain function. In recognition of his monumental contributions, he was honoured with the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian awards.

Two distinguished speakers reflected on Dr Singh’s life and legacy: Dr K.K. Deepak, Visiting Professor at the Centre for Biomedical Engineering, IIT Delhi and former Head of Physiology at AIIMS New Delhi, and Dr K.K. Talwar, former Director of PGIMER Chandigarh and ex-Chairman of the Medical Council of India.

Dr Deepak, who had the privilege of working closely with Dr Singh for nearly a decade, painted a vivid picture of his mentor’s humility and dedication. Describing him as a lifelong learner and a committed scientist, he recounted Dr Singh’s simple lifestyle—traveling by public transport, never owning a car and always wearing a vest and white apron. He was widely regarded as a dependable mentor and had more than 300 research publications to his credit, including pioneering work in high-altitude physiology and yoga.

Adding a personal touch, Dr Deepak recalled that while Dr Singh once had a fondness for gulab jamuns, he later embraced a simpler diet of curd with sugar and bread, reflecting his ascetic and disciplined nature.

Chandigarh