Benes, Eduard (1884-1948): Czech statesman, president from 1935 to ’38.

Bentham, Jeremy (1748-1832): British philosopher who developed the theory of utilitarianism.

Berry, Halle (b.1968): US film actress. First black actress to win Oscar for best actress. Monster’s Ball.

Bertolucci, Bernardo (b.1940): Italian film director. The last emperor won 9 Oscars in 1987.

Besant, Annie (1847-1933): An Irish woman, staunch supporter of Indian independence movement. Social worker, educationalist and reformer. Set up Home rule league. President of INC, 1917. Established Theosophical society of India.

Bessemer, Sir Henry (1813-’98): British metallurgist who invented the process of converting cast iron direst in to steel.

Bhabha, Homi J. (1909-’66): The Indian scientist who was mainly responsible for creating the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre. Described as the father of Indian nuclear science.

Bhagwan dass, Dr. (1869-1958): Vedic scholar, Indian freedom fighter. Bharat Ratna.

Bhagwati, Prof, Jagadish (b.1934): India-born U.S. Professor of Economics at Columbia university.

Bharat Muni (5th c): Sankrit writer. Natya Shastra.