Internationally renowned Indian astrophysicist and founder director of the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), Dr. Jayant Vishnu Narlikar, passed away in his sleep at his residence in Pune on May 20, 2025. He was 86.
Dr. Narlikar’s passing marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in Indian science. Over the course of a remarkable career, he made groundbreaking contributions to cosmology, challenged prevailing scientific orthodoxy, and dedicated himself to making science accessible to the broader public.
Pioneer of Alternative Cosmological Theories
A visionary and passionate science communicator, Narlikar co-developed the Hoyle–Narlikar theory of gravity as an alternative to Einstein’s general relativity. He also championed the steady-state theory of the universe, boldly challenging the widely accepted Big Bang model.
Born on July 19, 1938, in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, Dr. Narlikar hailed from a family steeped in academia. His father,
Vishnu Vasudev Narlikar was a renowned mathematician, while his mother, Sumati Narlikar, was a scholar of Sanskrit.
Dr. Jayant Vishnu Narlikar completed his early education in Varanasi before earning his Ph.D. at the University of Cambridge under the mentorship of Sir Fred Hoyle.
Dr. Jayant Vishnu Narlikar completed his early education in Varanasi before earning his Ph.D. at the University of Cambridge under the mentorship of Sir Fred Hoyle.
A Lifelong Champion of Science Communication
Beyond his scientific endeavors, Dr. Narlikar was a prolific writer and communicator. He authored numerous books and articles in English, Hindi, and Marathi, aiming to make science accessible to the general public. His works ranged from advanced scientific treatises to science fiction, reflecting his commitment to fostering a scientific temper across society.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Narlikar received numerous accolades. These include the Padma Bhushan in 1965 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2004—India’s third and second-highest civilian honors, respectively. He was also honored with the UNESCO Kalinga Prize for popularizing science in 1996 and the Prix Jules Janssen from the French Astronomical Society in 2004.
Dr. Narlikar is survived by his three daughters and their families. His legacy as a scientist, educator, and communicator will endure, inspiring both the scientific community and the public for generations to come.