This special issue of IJPBS is dedicated to Prof Baru Vijaya Kumar as he celebrates his 58th birthday and moves on from the current phase of his career as a great and successful teacher and active researcher. On this memorable occasion, his colleagues, students and friends, wish him a happy, healthy and pleasant life ahead. As a tribute to Dr. Baru, we present a brief summary of his scientific career and achievements over the past 35 years.