Wed May 21 08:50:57 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
**Eminent Astrophysicist Prof. Jayant Narlikar Passes Away, Leaving a Legacy of Scientific Inquiry**
**HYDERABAD, May 21, 2025** – Prof. Jayant Vishnu Narlikar, a towering figure in astrophysics and a champion of scientific temper, has passed away. The news has sent ripples of grief through the Indian scientific community and beyond. He was known globally for his pioneering contributions to cosmology and his dedication to fostering scientific thinking.
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy expressed his deep sorrow, highlighting Prof. Narlikar’s “extraordinary contributions to astrophysics…[leaving] an indelible mark on modern science.” He emphasized Narlikar’s pivotal role in establishing leading research institutions in India.
Jana Vignan Vedika (JVV), Telangana, also mourned his passing, recalling his work in cosmology, especially his championing of models alternative to the Big Bang theory. JVV President Ch. Rajeshwara Rao, along with secretary Raja and vice-president Prof. B.N. Reddy, praised his advocacy for scientific temper and his condemnation of violence against rationalists, notably his strong opposition to the murder of Dr. Narendra Dabholkar. He was an outspoken critic of pseudoscience and superstition.
Prof. Narlikar’s collaborative study with Dr. Dabholkar, “A statistical test on astrology,” aimed to debunk the scientific claims of astrology. His death marks the end of an era, leaving a legacy of intellectual brilliance, fearless inquiry, and an unwavering commitment to public science education, particularly needed during the fight against pseudoscience.
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**About Prof. Jayant Narlikar:**
Prof. Jayant Narlikar was a renowned astrophysicist whose work significantly advanced the field of cosmology. He was a dedicated advocate for scientific thinking and public science education. He played a crucial role in establishing world-class research institutions in India.
**Contact:**
[The Hindu – Contact information not provided in text]
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