Jayant Narlikar: Cosmic Theorist and Science Visionary

Jayant Narlikar: Cosmic Theorist and Science Visionary

Why in the News ?

Jayant Narlikar (1938–2025), renowned Indian astrophysicist, passed away at 86. He challenged the Big Bang theory, co-developed the steady state model, popularised science, and founded IUCAA, leaving an enduring legacy in theoretical physics, cosmology, and science communication. Narlikar’s contributions to public understanding of science align with broader initiatives to improve scientific literacy and health awareness, such as those promoted through DD Health programs. His life and work are celebrated as significant national news of India in the scientific community, widely reported through public app news platforms.

Jayant Narlikar: Cosmic Theorist and Science Visionary

Pioneering Contributions to Cosmology:

  • Gained fame alongside Fred Hoyle by proposing the steady state theory, opposing the Big Bang model.
  • Remained a vocal critic of the Big Bang theory despite growing evidence.
  • Instrumental in founding the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune.
  • Mentored key scientists like Thanu Padmanabhan, Sanjeev Dhurandhar, and Ajit Kembhavi.
  • Passionate Science Communicator and Writer
  • Committed to science communication, debunked superstitions and astrology.
  • Authored popular science and fiction works like Dhoomaketu (adapted into a film) and his autobiography Chaar Nagarantale Maze Vishwa.
  • Influenced by Carl Sagan, Asimov, and Arthur C. Clarke.
  • Regular face on science TV shows during the 1990s.

Recognition, Legacy, and Early Life of Jayant Narlikar :
● Honoured with Padma Bhushan (1965) and Padma Vibhushan (2004).
● Received UNESCO Kalinga Prize and Prix Jules Janssen for science outreach.
● Born to V.V. Narlikar, mathematician, and Sumati Narlikar, Sanskrit scholar.
● Completed Ph.D. under Sir Fred Hoyle at Cambridge University.
  • Narlikar’s dedication to science communication and public engagement serves as a model for current efforts to improve scientific literacy and health awareness, complementing initiatives like DD Health and broader public health education programs. His work laid the foundation for India’s contributions to global scientific endeavors, including potential future involvement in projects like the Global Digital Health Certification Network (GDHCN) Secretariat. Narlikar’s approach to challenging established theories and promoting scientific thinking resonates with the pioneering spirit of India’s first woman PM, who broke barriers in the political sphere.