Remembering Dr. Hema Sane: A Life Dedicated to Unveiling Nature's Secrets

Pune and the broader scientific community are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Hema Sane, a revered botanist and a luminary in the field of plant taxonomy. Dr. Sane, who served as the distinguished former Head of the Department of Botany at Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), breathed her last on October 10 at the age of 85, leaving behind a monumental legacy of knowledge, discovery, and dedication.

Dr.

Sane's illustrious career spanned over three decades at SPPU, where she was not only an educator but a passionate advocate for understanding and preserving India's rich botanical heritage. Her profound expertise in plant classification and identification made her a guiding light for countless students and researchers.

She was celebrated for her meticulous approach to research, which led to the publication of over 100 research papers that significantly advanced the understanding of various plant species.

Among her most notable contributions is the authoritative work "Forests of Maharashtra," co-authored with S.P.

Kulkarni. This seminal publication remains an indispensable resource for botanists, environmentalists, and anyone interested in the diverse flora of the region. It stands as a testament to her deep commitment to documenting and celebrating the natural world around us.

Beyond her extensive research and publications, Dr.

Sane was an exceptional mentor. She guided numerous PhD students, instilling in them a rigorous scientific temperament and a profound love for botany. Her colleagues and students remember her not just for her academic brilliance but also for her approachable nature, her unwavering support, and her infectious enthusiasm for the plant kingdom.

The Sane family itself holds a distinguished place in the botanical sciences, with her father also being a prominent botanist and her sister following in the same path.

This familial dedication underscores a shared passion for nature that Dr. Hema Sane exemplified throughout her life.

Dr. Hema Sane's passing marks the end of an era for Indian botany. Her unwavering commitment to research, her pivotal role in education, and her enduring contributions to documenting Maharashtra's flora have left an indelible mark.

She will be remembered as a visionary scientist whose life was a living testament to the beauty and importance of the natural world, inspiring generations to look closer, learn more, and protect the verdant wonders that surround us.