India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished scientists, Professor Jayant Vishnu Narlikar, who passed away peacefully at his residence in Pune on May 20, 2025, at the age of 86. A towering figure in astrophysics and cosmology, Prof. Narlikar’s groundbreaking contributions to science, his role in fostering scientific temper, and his efforts to popularize science through literature have left an indelible mark on India and the global scientific community.
Renowned Indian Astrophysicist Prof. J.V. Narlikar Passes Away at 86
A Legacy in the Stars
Born on July 19, 1938, in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, Jayant Narlikar was the son of renowned mathematician Prof. Vishnu Vasudev Narlikar. His academic journey began at Banaras Hindu University, followed by a PhD from Cambridge University, where he worked under the mentorship of the legendary Sir Fred Hoyle. Together, they developed the Hoyle-Narlikar theory of conformal gravity, a significant contribution that challenged aspects of the Big Bang theory and offered alternative perspectives on the universe’s evolution.
Prof. Narlikar’s most notable achievement was founding the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune, a premier institution that has become a cornerstone for astronomical research in India. As its founding director, he nurtured generations of scientists and elevated India’s standing in global astrophysics. His work in cosmology, particularly on steady-state cosmology, earned him international acclaim, including the presidency of the Cosmology Commission of the International Astronomical Union from 1994 to 1997.
Beyond Academia: A Champion of Scientific Temper
Prof. Narlikar was not only a scientist but also a prolific writer who brought the wonders of science to the masses. His Marathi science fiction books, such as Antaralatil Bhasmasur, Aakashashi Jadale Nate, and Suryacha Prakop, along with his autobiography Char Nagarantale Maze Vishva, won him the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award and the Rashtrabhushan Award. His ability to blend scientific rigor with engaging storytelling inspired countless young minds to pursue science.
In recognition of his contributions, the Government of India honored him with the Padma Bhushan in 1965 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2004. In 2023, he received the inaugural Govind Swarup Lifetime Achievement Award from the Astronomical Society of India, cementing his legacy as a pioneer in Indian astronomy.
A Personal and Professional Loss
According to family sources, Prof. Narlikar passed away peacefully in his sleep, with no prolonged illness, though his health had declined with age. His death comes two years after the passing of his wife, Dr. Mangala Narlikar, an accomplished mathematician and a key supporter of IUCAA, in July 2023. The couple, a fixture in Pune’s scientific community, leaves behind three daughters and five grandchildren.
The Indian scientific community, along with literary and academic circles, is reeling from the loss. Social media posts reflect the sentiment of a nation in mourning, with many describing his passing as “the end of an era in Indian science and science communication.”
Impact on Science and Society
Prof. Narlikar’s work transcended academic boundaries, influencing education, research, and public understanding of science. His establishment of IUCAA provided a platform for cutting-edge research, while his popular science writings in Marathi made complex concepts accessible to all. His commitment to challenging conventional theories, such as the Big Bang model, inspired critical thinking and innovation among scientists worldwide.
For businesses and educational institutions, his legacy underscores the importance of investing in scientific research and fostering curiosity-driven learning. His vision for IUCAA serves as a model for building institutions that bridge academia and society, ensuring that science remains a cornerstone of progress.
A Call to Continue His Vision
As India bids farewell to Prof. Narlikar, the scientific community and citizens alike are called to honor his legacy by promoting scientific temper and curiosity. His life reminds us that questioning the unknown and sharing knowledge can transform societies. Business Connect Magazine urges its readers to support initiatives that advance astronomy, education, and science communication in India.
Stay updated with Business Connect Magazine on social media for more tributes and insights into Prof. Narlikar’s remarkable contributions. Let’s keep his spirit of inquiry alive.
Add Business Connect magazine to your Google News feed
