Jamal Nazrul Islam: A Genius in Mathematics and Physics

Throughout my life, I have come across several stories related to the life of Jamal Nazrul Islam (24 February 1939 – 16 March 2013) and many insightful and informative discussions regarding this luminary by different scholars and university teachers. I must say that a feeling of admiration and adoration has been gradually built up in my mind.
Jamal Nazrul Islam is one of the most remarkable intellectuals Bangladesh has produced in its history. He was at the same time a mathematician, a theoretical physicist, a philosopher and a dedicated teacher. He was a brilliant mind at international standards, but his life has been simple and humble at the same time. He has left his mark on society not only through his scholarship but also through his dedication to his students and his impact on their moral character.
Born in 1939, Jamal Nazrul Islam possessed extraordinary intellectual abilities from a very young age. His academic pursuits took him to Cambridge University in the United Kingdom, which is considered one of the most prestigious academic institutions in the world. There, he pursued his studies and conducted his research under the supervision of some of the best scientists of the era. His academic contributions to mathematics and theoretical physics were soon recognised globally. Despite being offered an opportunity to settle into a comfortable life abroad, he made a conscious choice to come back to Bangladesh. This choice was a reflection of his strong sense of responsibility towards his country and its future generations.
Jamal Nazrul Islam dedicated himself to teaching and research at the University of Chittagong. He chose to work on topics that very few scientists worldwide had the courage to explore. These topics included cosmology, general relativity, mathematical physics, and the long-term future of the universe. His thoughts were not only daring but also profound. His book, The Ultimate Fate of the Universe, was a very influential piece of work that focused on the ways in which the universe could change over a very long time span and what this could ultimately mean for human civilisation.

However, what set Jamal Nazrul Islam apart was his capacity to connect science with the larger human interests. He never looked at science as an academic pursuit meant only for the academic world. Instead, he looked at science as a pursuit with a certain kind of moral responsibility. He often expressed his concern over nuclear warfare, uncontrolled technological progress and environmental destruction. According to him, uncontrolled scientific progress could spell doom for the human race.
As a teacher, he discouraged memorisation and encouraged independent thinking. His students remember that his classes were intellectually demanding but very enriching. He had the unique gift of being able to simplify very complex concepts into simple language. More importantly, he taught his students how to think, question and reflect, rather than just how to pass an exam.
Jamal Nazrul Islam was a strong believer that the progress of a nation largely depends on the quality of its education system. He was very critical of the system that was more focused on certificates than actual learning. In his opinion, actual education should cultivate curiosity, discipline, creativity and moral sensitivity. He always stressed the need for a sound foundation in mathematics and science and the need for well-trained and respected teachers.
Yet, in spite of his worldwide fame, Jamal Nazrul Islam lived a simple and disciplined life. He lived away from luxuries and material comfort. His life was a practical demonstration of the fact that true happiness is found in knowledge, service and self-satisfaction, not in material possessions or fame. He did not aspire for political power or fame. He spent his precious time in reading, teaching, research and thoughtful conversations.
One of the most praiseworthy qualities of Jamal Nazrul Islam was his humility. Despite his vast knowledge, he did not show any kind of arrogance. He listened patiently to others, appreciated their opinions and encouraged them to speak freely. By doing so, he won the hearts of all, including students, colleagues and scholars. He proved in life that true greatness is found in simplicity and open-mindedness.
Jamal Nazrul Islam was also deeply concerned about the long-term prospects of human civilisation. He often spoke about the survival of humanity over centuries and even millennia. His thoughts on this subject are also based on scientific thinking and responsibility, not on imagination or speculation.
Jamal passed away in 2013. His intellectual and moral legacies continue to inspire humanity. His contributions to mathematics and physics are invaluable. Perhaps his most valuable contribution was the life he chose to lead. We are living in a world where the key words are ‘competition’, ‘consumerism’ and ‘instant success’. His life teaches us the importance of depth and responsibility.
For Bangladesh, Jamal Nazrul Islam is the epitome of the highest ideals in scholarship and service. He has demonstrated that world-class science can be achieved from a developing country if guided by commitment and vision. Recalling him is not just a gesture of homage; it is a reminder of the need to inculcate intellect, integrity and humanity in the young minds of the coming generations.
As a luminary in mathematics and physics, Jamal Nazrul Islam has illuminated the secrets of the universe. As a human being, he has illuminated the way for all of us in thoughtful living, in being good citizens, and in being committed to the pursuit of knowledge.

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The writer is an Assistant Professor of English at Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology, Dhaka