Firefly luminescence shines bright at Prof A Surjalal Sharma Memorial Lecture
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, January 23 2026: The second Professor A Surjalal Shanna Memorial Lecture, held today at GP Women's College, DM University, explored the science behind firefly bioluminescence at GP Women's College, DM University.

The event honored the late scientist's legacy as a pioneering physicist and astrophysicist.

The event began with a heartfelt homage to Prof Adhikarimayum Surjalal Sharma, delivered by Dr Raheijuddin Sheikh, publicity in-charge of the Research Institute of Science & Technology (RIST).

Dr Sheikh remembered Prof Sharma not only as a pioneering plasma physicist and astrophysicist but also as a devoted mentor and institution-builder.

Firefly luminescence shines bright at Prof A Surjalal Sharma Memorial Lecture

In his tribute, Dr Sheikh highlighted Prof Sharma's lifelong commitment to fostering scientific curiosity-from his foundational role as the founding Director of RIST since 2010 to his leadership at the University of Maryland's Partnership for Heliophysics and Space Environment Research (PHaSER) .

He reflected on Prof Sharma's remarkable journey from Imphal to international acclaim, earning his PhD from PRL-Ahmedabad and conducting groundbreaking research across Europe and the United States.

Beyond his academic achievements, Prof Sharma was celebrated for his deep engagement with the community.

He actively supported the Manipuri diaspora for over five decades, co-founding the North American Manipur Association in 1992, and frequently participated in educational outreach through radio, television, and seminars in Manipur's schools and colleges.

Following the tribute, Prof Anurup Gohain Barua, former Head of Physics at Gauhati University, delivered an engaging memorial lecture titled "The Lights of the Firefly", unveiling the science behind firefly bioluminescence.

The lecture served as both a tribute to a beloved scientist and an inspirational educational event, reflecting Prof Sharma's enduring vision of making science accessible and engaging for future generations.

The event included a quiz and a 'Best Listener' award.

Attendees included Prof N Nimai Singh, Prof L Rajen Singh, and other dignitaries.

The lecture reflected Prof Sharma's vision of making science accessible to future generations.

An on-the-spot quiz was also conducted, culminating in the presentation of a 'Best Listener' award.

The function was attended by dignitaries, including Prof N Nimai Singh, former Head, Department of Physics, Manipur University and Director of RIST; Prof L Rajen Singh, Principal of GP Women's College; Prof Md Bahr Uddin Shah, IQAC Coordinator and Head, Department of Geography, GP Women's College; and Dr Maisnam Bidyasagar, Head, Department of Physics, GP Women's College.