The scientific fraternity and the country are shocked and saddened by the passing away of Dr. Jayant Vishnu Narlikar, a renowned astrophysicist, science communicator, and Padma Vibhushan recipient, who breathed his last while sleeping in Pune at the age of 87. Famous for introducing cosmology in India and popularizing science among the common people, Dr. Narlikar’s legacy will continue to motivate generations of scientists and science lovers alike.
Dr. Jayant Narlikar: Lifetime of Devotion to Science & Education
Dr. Jayant Narlikar was born on 19th July, 1938. He was brought up in an academic atmosphere at Banaras Hindu University, where his father was the head of the Mathematics department. His early talent in mathematics and physics took him to Cambridge University, where he received the coveted Tyson Medal and was awarded the Wrangler prize in the Mathematical Tripos.
Back in India, he joined the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) in 1972. With him at the helm, the Theoretical Astrophysics Group acquired an international reputation. His vision for Indian astrophysics finally came to fruition in 1988 when the University Grants Commission appointed him to set up the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune. As founding director until his retirement in 2003, he established IUCAA as a world-class research center, remaining Emeritus Professor afterward.
Acclaimed Scientist and Science Populariser
Dr. Jayant Narlikar was globally appreciated for his contributions to science as well as his flair for popularising intricate ideas. He was awarded by the Third World Academy of Sciences in 2012 for establishing a centre of excellence in science. UNESCO awarded him the Kalinga Prize in 1996 for his influential contributions to science communication.
His busy career comprised scientific books, interesting articles, and science fiction, which impressed people throughout India. In television and radio shows, he introduced astrophysics into living rooms, generating interest and awareness among the masses.
Legacy and Honours
Dr. Narlikar’s long list of honors includes Padma Bhushan in 1965, aged only 26, and Padma Vibhushan in 2004. Maharashtra gave him its highest civilian award, the Maharashtra Bhushan, in 2011. His Marathi autobiography won the Sahitya Akademi in 2014, again symbolizing his diverse achievements.
Though he was chosen to chair the Marathi Sahitya Sammelan in 2021, he was unable to go because of poor health. He leaves behind his three daughters, and family members are planning to conduct the last rites soon.
Dr. Jayant Vishnu Narlikar’s passing has come at the end of an epoch, but his legacy will forever light the way for Indian science and education. His commitment to advancing scientific horizons while cultivating public interest is a model few will be able to follow.
