Renowned Indian astrophysicist Jayant Narlikar passed away early Monday morning at his residence in Pune. He was 86 years old.
Dr Narlikar was awarded Padmabhushan in 1965 at the young age of 26.
Know Everything About Renowned Pune Astrophysicist
Narlikar was internationally recognised for his work and was equally known for his engaging Marathi science fiction writing. He had a unique ability to explain complex scientific concepts in simple, beautiful language.
After completing his studies at Cambridge University, he returned to India and initially worked at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research. Later, he played a key role in establishing the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune.
In 2021, he served as the president of the All India Marathi Literature Conference held in Nashik.
His passing marks the end of an era in Indian science and science communication.
The Life and Legacy of Dr. Jayant Narlikar
Passed Away: Died in his sleep early Tuesday morning in Pune; had recently undergone hip surgery.
Age: 86
Survived by: Three daughters
Born: July 19, 1938
Academic & Professional Milestones
Early Education: Banaras Hindu University (BHU), where his father was a mathematics professor
Higher Studies: Cambridge University; became a Wrangler and Tyson Medallist in Mathematical Tripos
TIFR Tenure: Expanded and led the Theoretical Astrophysics Group (1972–1989)
IUCAA Founder Director: Established the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics in 1988
Retirement: 2003; continued as Emeritus Professor at IUCAA
Awards & Honors
Padma Bhushan (1965) — at age 26
Padma Vibhushan (2004)
Maharashtra Bhushan (2011)
Sahitya Akademi Award (2014) — for autobiography in Marathi
UNESCO Kalinga Award (1996) — for popular science writing
TWAS Award (2012) — for setting up a centre of excellence
Legacy
Cosmologist: Known globally for pioneering work in theoretical cosmology
Science Communicator: Authored books, articles, and presented on radio/TV
Science Fiction Author: Popular Marathi sci-fi writer
