Tue May 20 06:06:17 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Eminent Astrophysicist Dr. Jayant Narlikar Passes Away at 87**

*Pune, May 20, 2025* – Dr. Jayant Vishnu Narlikar, a towering figure in Indian science, renowned astrophysicist, science communicator, and Padma Vibhushan awardee, passed away peacefully in his sleep in Pune early Tuesday morning. He was 87 years old.

Dr. Narlikar leaves behind a legacy of pioneering contributions to cosmology, dedicated efforts to popularize science, and instrumental work in establishing premier research institutions across India. He will be remembered as a leading voice in the scientific community and a passionate advocate for scientific literacy.

Born on July 19, 1938, Dr. Narlikar received his early education at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) before pursuing higher studies at Cambridge University, where he achieved distinction as a Wrangler and Tyson Medallist.

He returned to India in 1972 and joined the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), where he oversaw the expansion and international recognition of the Theoretical Astrophysics Group. In 1988, he founded the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) under the University Grants Commission. As Founder Director, he steered IUCAA to global prominence as a center of excellence in astronomy and astrophysics research until his retirement in 2003. He continued as an Emeritus Professor at IUCAA.

Beyond his research, Dr. Narlikar was a celebrated science communicator, captivating audiences through his books, articles, radio programs, and television appearances. He also penned popular science fiction stories. His dedication earned him the UNESCO Kalinga Award for popular science writing in 1996.

Dr. Narlikar’s numerous accolades include the Padma Bhushan (1965), Padma Vibhushan (2004), and the Maharashtra Bhushan (2011), the state’s highest civilian award. In 2014, the Sahitya Akademi honored his autobiography with its highest prize for regional language (Marathi) writing. He was also recognised by the Third World Academy of Sciences for setting up a center for excellence in science in 2012.

He is survived by his three daughters. The Indian scientific community mourns the loss of a visionary leader and an inspiration to generations of scientists and science enthusiasts.

**(News Source: The Hindu)**

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