Dr. Karan Singh, born in 1931 is the last heir apparent to the throne of the former princely state of Kashmir is a philosopher, environmentalist, statesman, orator, author and politician. He is the chairman of Temple of Understanding, an international inter-faith organization, president of the International Center for Science, Culture and Consciousness, chairman of the Auroville Foundation and member of the UNESCO Project on Universal Ethics. He has extensively lectured on Indian culture and philosophy and has set up 'India Forum', a think-tank on contemporary issues. Dr. Singh has also authored several widely acclaimed books, including Essays on Hinduism, In Defense of Religion and One Man's World. He also served as India's Ambassador to United States of America from 1989 to 1990. At present, he is a member of the Rajya Sabha. Photo: Pablo Bartholomew/Netphotograph.com