Reminiscing Bimla Buti

Professor Bimla Buti, affectionately known as Buti Ji to our generation, embarked on her research career in plasma physics in the late 1950s, a period when the field was still in its infancy. Previously referred to as the ‘physics of electrical discharges’, plasma physics was undergoing a transformative evolution, with foundational concepts being developed by esteemed pioneers. It was during this pivotal phase that Prof. Buti fearlessly chose to delve into this uncharted realm, making several seminal contributions along the way. One of her notable achievements is in the area of relativistic effects on plasma waves, where she has made a fundamental contribution by estimating the damping rate of relativistic plasma waves due to finite temperature effects. This is a significant endeavor that holds particular relevance in the realm of plasma-based particle accelerators today. Professor Buti’s enduring dedication to her work continues to serve as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring physicists, captivating them not only with her scholarly contributions but also with her remarkable persona.