Tue May 20 10:11:14 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Renowned Indian astrophysicist Dr. Jayant Narlikar passed away at the age of 86. Known for his theoretical contributions to cosmology, particularly his work with Sir Fred Hoyle on the “steady state” model of the universe, he was also a dedicated science communicator and institution builder, founding the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune. Dr. Narlikar was praised for his commitment to fighting superstition and promoting science, his literary contributions (including science fiction and his autobiography), and his influence on a generation of Indian scientists.
**News Article:**
**India Mourns Loss of Astrophysical Luminary, Dr. Jayant Narlikar, at 86**
**Pune, India – May 20, 2025:** India’s scientific community is in mourning following the passing of Dr. Jayant Vishnu Narlikar, one of the nation’s most distinguished astrophysicists, who died at his Pune residence on Tuesday. He was 86.
Dr. Narlikar, renowned for his profound theoretical insights into cosmology and unwavering dedication to science communication, leaves behind a legacy that spans scientific discovery, institution building, and popularizing science for the masses.
“His sense of justice and equality, and his unwavering commitment to popularizing science and combating non-science-based superstition and astrology, set him apart,” said Dr. Tarun Souradeep, Director of the Raman Research Institute (RRI), Bengaluru.
As the Founder-Director of the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune, Dr. Narlikar fostered a world-renowned center for theoretical physics, cosmology, and astrophysics. He mentored a generation of leading scientists.
Dr. Narlikar gained international recognition for his work with British astronomer Sir Fred Hoyle, proposing the “steady state” model of the universe, challenging the prevailing “Big Bang” theory. While the Big Bang theory is now widely accepted, Dr. Narlikar remained a critical voice, continuously refining the steady-state view.
Beyond his scientific contributions, Dr. Narlikar was a prolific writer and science popularizer, authoring science fiction and an autobiography that earned him the Sahitya Akademi Prize. His ability to communicate complex scientific concepts in an accessible and engaging manner made him a prominent figure in Indian science outreach.
Recipient of the Padma Bhushan (1965) and Padma Vibhushan (2004), Dr. Narlikar’s contributions to science and society have been widely recognized. His legacy as a scientific pioneer, institution builder, and champion of rational thought will continue to inspire generations of scientists and science enthusiasts in India and beyond.
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