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Lectures.
The following discourses were delivered last winter by Sir J. C. Bose, illustrated by original experiments:—
- The Mystery of the "Praying" Palm of Faridpore.
- The Electric Response of Plants.
- Automatic Record of Growth and its Variation.
- Effect of Wound on Plants.
Besides the above, a special leeture was given for visitors in Calcutta during Christmas. A popular lecture was also delivered in Bengali for Indian ladies. Mr. Abanindra Nath Tagore gave a discourse in Bengali on "The Line as a means of Expression."
Lecture Tour in Bombay.
At the special invitation of the citizens, and the University, Sir J. C. Bose paid a visit to Bombay and Poona in February 1918, and delivered a series of lectures there. The visit aroused much enthusiasm, and active interest in the Institute. The proceeds of this lecture tour, subsequently made over to the Trustees by Sir J. C. Bose, amounted nearly to two lacs of rupees, including the endowment made by His Highness the Maharaja Gaekwar of Baroda. This active co-operation from a premier Indian Prince and from the citizens of the sister Presidency in the success of the Institute is a matter of gratification to all who are interested in this national undertaking.
Gifts and Endowments.
The extension of the sphere of activity of the Institute depends on the acquirement of subtantial endowments. A hopeful beginning has been made, thanks specially to the enlightened generosity of His Highness the Maharaja Gaekwar of Baroda, Mr. Mulraj Khatau, The Hon'ble Sir Manindra Chandra Nandy of Kasimbazar, and of Mr. S. R. Bomanji, whose initiative donation has been fertile in example. In subscriptions available for current requirements and extensions, a further sum of nearly one lac has been received during the year. These suns amount to 6+1/2 lacs; but to these, not reckoning further contingent contribution, must be added the contribution of 1 lac in endowment from Sir J. C. Bose as the founder, together with his gifts of the Institute Building, land and equipment valued at