The passing of Prof. Jayant Vishnu Narlikar marks a profound loss to the world of science, education, and scientific temper in India. An astrophysicist of global acclaim, a passionate educator, a promoter of rational thinking, and a prolific writer, Narlikar’s legacy is etched not only in the stars he studied but also in the minds of students and science enthusiasts across generations.
A Luminary in Science
Born on July 19, 1938, in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, Jayant Narlikar grew up in a scholarly environment. His father, Vishnu Vasudev Narlikar, was a respected mathematician, and his mother was a Sanskrit scholar. After studying in India, Narlikar pursued his higher education at Cambridge University, working under the renowned cosmologist Fred Hoyle. Together, they proposed the Hoyle–Narlikar Theory of Gravity, a significant alternative to Einstein's theory and the Big Bang model.
This innovative theory attempted to blend gravitation and quantum mechanics in a steady-state universe model. Although it was later overshadowed by evidence for the Big Bang, it showcased Narlikar’s brilliance in theoretical physics and cosmology.
Founder of IUCAA and Mentor to Many
Prof. Narlikar returned to India with a vision—to cultivate a culture of astrophysical research and scientific inquiry. In 1988, he founded the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune, which soon became a national hub for astronomical research, particularly supporting faculty and students from Indian universities. He mentored numerous young scientists, encouraging collaborative research and critical thinking.
Champion of Popular Science in Marathi
Prof. Narlikar was not just a scientist but also a remarkable science communicator, especially in Marathi. He believed that scientific knowledge should reach every stratum of society, regardless of language or background. His writings in Marathi made complex astronomical and physical concepts accessible to the common reader.
Some of his noted Marathi works include:
"Antaralatil Awakash" – A book that explains space and universe in simple language.
"Dnyanachya Sadhane" – On the philosophy and method of science.
Articles in "Marathi Vishwakosh" (Marathi Encyclopedia) where he contributed as an expert editor for topics related to astronomy, cosmology, and physics.
Through these, he helped build a scientific vocabulary in Marathi and promoted rational, evidence-based thinking.
Inspiring Children and Young Minds
Prof. Narlikar was especially dedicated to sparking curiosity in children. He authored several children’s books in both English and Marathi, often blending storytelling with scientific concepts. Books like:
"Akashashi Jodnyara Disa" (Marathi)
"The Lighter Side of Gravity"
"Black Holes" – A simplified introduction to one of the most fascinating topics in astrophysics.
He frequently conducted hands-on science experiments during his school visits, using simple materials to explain fundamental physics—proving that learning science doesn't need expensive labs, just a curious mind.
Contributions to Mathematics and Physics
A strong foundation in mathematics underpinned Narlikar’s theoretical work. He made significant contributions to:
General Relativity and Quantum Cosmology
Mathematical modeling in cosmology
Alternative theories of gravity
His academic papers, published in international journals, continue to be referenced by researchers worldwide. He was also deeply interested in how mathematics could be taught more effectively, particularly emphasizing concept clarity over rote memorization.
A Rational Voice in the Age of Myths
Prof. Narlikar was a strong advocate of scientific temper, as envisioned in the Indian Constitution. He often spoke against pseudoscience and superstitions, emphasizing the role of evidence, logic, and experimentation. His television programs and essays challenged irrational beliefs and promoted a questioning attitude, especially among the youth.
Conclusion: A Legacy That Shines Bright
Prof. Jayant Narlikar’s passing is a moment of collective mourning for India’s scientific community and all who cherish reason and discovery. But his life continues to inspire. Through IUCAA, his Marathi writings, children's books, and popular science outreach, he created pathways for millions to engage with science joyfully and fearlessly.
In honoring his memory, we recommit ourselves to the values he held dear—curiosity, clarity, and courage to question. As we gaze into the night sky, we are reminded of his lifelong mission: to make the universe understandable, relatable, and wondrous for all.
Books and Academic Works:
Narlikar, J. V. (1995). The lighter side of gravity: A tour of the gravity of the situation. Cambridge University Press.
Narlikar, J. V. (2002). The scientific edge: The Indian scientist from Vedic to modern times. Penguin Books India.
Narlikar, J. V., & Hoyle, F. (1964). A new theory of gravitation. Proceedings of the Royal Society of London. Series A. Mathematical and Physical Sciences, 282(1389), 191–207. https://doi.org/10.1098/rspa.
Narlikar, J. V. (2007). ─Аk─Б┼Ы─Б┼Ы─л joс╕Нaс╣Зy─Бr─Б dis─Б [Marathi]. Rajhans Prakashan.
Websites and Institutional Sources:
Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics. (n.d.). Prof. Jayant V. Narlikar – Emeritus Professor. IUCAA. https://www.iucaa.in
Marathi Vishwakosh Mandal. (n.d.). Jayant Narlikar's contributions to science [Marathi]. https://marathivishwakosh.org
Popular Articles and Outreach:
India Science Wire. (2020, July 19). Jayant Narlikar: Bringing the universe to the common man. Vigyan Prasar. https://vigyanprasar.gov.in
The Hindu. (2018, July 19). Jayant Narlikar — A lifetime with the cosmos. https://www.thehindu.com/sci-
Video Lectures and Interviews:
Vigyan Prasar. (n.d.). Lectures and interviews of Prof. Jayant Narlikar [YouTube Channel]. https://www.youtube.com/@
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