Dr. Jayant Vishnu Narlikar, a celebrated astrophysicist and Padma Vibhushan awardee, has passed away at the age of 87 in Pune. His family shared that he had recently undergone hip surgery but was recovering well until his sudden passing in his sleep. Dr. Narlikar’s groundbreaking contributions to cosmology have profoundly influenced Indian science and inspired countless students and researchers.
Born on July 19, 1938, in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, Dr. Narlikar’s academic journey began at Banaras Hindu University, where he thrived in a scholarly environment. He later pursued advanced studies at Cambridge University, earning prestigious accolades, including the Wrangler and the Tyson Medal in the Mathematical Tripos. After returning to India, he joined the Tata Institute of Basic Research in 1972, where he made significant strides in astrophysics until 1989. In 1988, he founded the Inter-University Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics, transforming it into a premier institution for research and education, nurturing a new generation of astronomers.
Dr. Narlikar’s accolades include the Padma bhushan, awarded in 1965 when he was just 26, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2004. In 2011, he received the Maharashtra Bhushan, the state’s highest civilian honor. His work not only advanced scientific understanding but also ignited a passion for astronomy in many, ensuring that his legacy will resonate for generations. The scientific community mourns the loss of a visionary whose impact will be felt for years to come.
