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Scroll.in
22-05-2025
- Science
- Scroll.in
Jayant Narlikar (1938-2025): A bright star who rewrote the story of the cosmos
A bright star has gone dark. Astrophysicist Jayant Narlikar died in Pune on May 20. He was 87. He devoted his life to the quest for scientific knowledge, the advancement and dissemination of rational thought and the steadfast struggle against pseudoscience. There is perhaps no student of science in India today who must not have heard of Narlikar. Using chalks of various colours and a blackboard, Narlikar imparted lessons on the universe, and our place in it, to generations of students. Narlikar was born in Kolhapur in 1983. His father was a professor of mathematics at Banaras Hindu University. Narlikar followed in father's footsteps, graduating in mathematics from Banaras Hindu University and then pursuing higher studies at Cambridge, where he was awarded the Tyson Medal in the Mathematical Tripos course. At Cambridge, Narlikar met renowned British physicist Fred Hoyle. In the 1960s, radio astronomer Martin Ryle provided new experimental data to Cambridge University's Cavendish Laboratory, supporting the Big Bang Theory. The universe began as an infinitely small, hot, and dense point that swiftly expanded and proceeded to stretch for 13.8 billion years, according to the Big Bang Theory. Narlikar and Hoyle used Ryle's data to show that his results were inconclusive for the Big Bang Theory. Their research yielded the Hoyle-Narlikar theory, also known as the Quasi Steady State Cosmology Theory or Conformal Gravity Theory. It presents an alternate explanation for the formation of the universe. Unlike the Big Bang Theory, the Steady State Theory contends that the cosmos is constantly expanding and creating new matter. This theory asserts that the mass of every object in the universe is affected by its interactions with other objects. Physicist Albert Einstein was inspired by this principle, but could not incorporate it into his theory of relativity. Narlikar and Hoyle's theory proposed a 'creation field', which is a hypothetical negative energy field that continuously creates matter, explaining the Steady State Universe: the universe has no beginning or end, it goes on forever. Their theory gave rise to an alternative understanding of the structure of galaxies, the distribution of matter and cosmic microwave background radiation. In his autobiography, My Tale of Four Cities, Narlikar uses a banking analogy to describe how the world expands steadily while retaining a constant density: 'To understand this concept better, think of capital invested in a bank which offers a fixed rate of compound interest. That is, the interest accrued is constantly added to the capital which therefore grows too, along with the interest. The universe expands like the capital with compound interest. However, as the name 'steady state' implies, the universe always presents the same appearance to any observer. Such an observer, for example, can measure the density of the universe from time to time. He or she should find the universe to have the same density at all times. How is this possible, when we know that anything that expands becomes diluted and less and less dense?' To answer this question, wrote Narlikar, cosmologists Hermann Bondi, Thomas Gold, and Fred Hoyle 'had to conclude that there is new matter created to make up for the diminishing density of existing matter'. This theory makes it possible to explain how stars dating back billions of years can be found, but it is not possible in the Big Bang theory, because it posits that the universe is 13.8 billion years old. The Steady State Teory, based on mathematical principles, is not universally accepted but gave rise to new debates in cosmological research. Narlikar's research on black holes was just as highly regarded. He proposed the concept of a self-gravitating system, which examines the gravitational impact of matter on the geometry of space-time surrounding black holes. A self-gravitating system is one in which the gravitational forces between its components are strong enough to keep the system together and prevent it from dispersing. His studies also focused on active galactic nuclei – AGN. These are the extraordinarily bright, compact centre regions of galaxies where a supermassive black hole actively accretes matter. Narlikar's research centered on the dynamics of black holes and the behaviour of energetic galactic sources, which included the creation of his 'magnetic field ejection model'. It is a cosmological model that proposes that magnetic fields cause quasars and other intense objects to be expelled from galaxies, explaining their observed redshift, which is when galaxies appear to emit red light, and other features. Upon returning to India from Cambridge in 1972, Narlikar joined the theoretical astrophysics group at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, where he remained for 17 years. Under Narlikar's guidance, the institute's Department of Theoretical Astrophysics achieved global acclaim in the mid-1980s. In 1988, the University Grants Commission entrusted Narlikar with the establishment of the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics in Pune. The centre, founded by distinguished scientists such as Ajit Kamdevi and Naresh Dadhichi, is now recognised as a premier institution in astronomy and astrophysics, both in India and internationally. Under Narlikar, the centre cultivated a multitude of emerging scientists. He retired as the centre's director in 2003. Narlikar was also a dedicated advocate for science. He was prominent in Maharashtra's anti-superstition movement. With scholars and activists Sudhakar Kunte, Narendra Dabholkar, and Prakash Ghadpade, Narlikar demonstrated the ineffectiveness of astrological predictions. In 2018, he attended a science conference organized by the Breakthrough Science Society at Jadavpur University. Only months before his death, in February he had participated in the All India Science Congress in Trivandrum, Kerala. He exemplified the scientist who was an equally effective public speaker. Narlikar was also a science fiction writer, especially for younger readers. He wrote in Hindi, English and Marathi. Many students of the 1990s grew up reading Narlikar's writing, especially his novels. Decades before Covid-19 and artificial intelligence, Narlikar, in The Plague of Athens, wrote about the pandemic that followed a virus brought to earth by an asteroid. In another story, Narlikar wrote about super-intelligent robots, somewhat like ChatGPT today. Throughout his life, he also wrote articles to help ordinary readers understand complex scientific subjects. His achievements were celebrated early in his life, with Padma Bhushan at the remarkably young age of 27. Narlikar went on to receive several awards: the Adam's Award (1967), Kalinga Award (1996), Padma Vibhushan (2004), and Maharashtra Bhushan (2011). In the July 1964 issue of the National Planning Commission's magazine Yojana, a column asked 'Should we get Jayant back?' He was 26 years old then. Today, that line is just as relevant. Shamim Haque Mondal is a researcher in the Physics Division, State Forensic Science Laboratory, Kolkata.
Time of India
21-05-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Jayant Narlikar educational qualifications: The Indian astrophysicist who went from Varanasi to Cambridge and beyond the Big Bang
From classrooms in Varanasi to reshaping ideas in cosmology, Jayant Narlikar 's journey remains a shining example of scientific integrity and vision. Jayant Vishnu Narlikar was born on July 19, 1938, in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, into a deeply academic household. His father, Vishnu Vasudev Narlikar, was a prominent mathematician and physicist, and a professor at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), while his mother, Sumati Narlikar, was a Sanskrit scholar. This early exposure to both science and classical knowledge laid a strong intellectual foundation for Jayant. Raised in Varanasi, Narlikar attended Central Hindu College (now Central Hindu Boys School), where he quickly developed a love for mathematics and the sciences. Encouraged by his academic surroundings, he pursued higher education at BHU, completing a Bachelor of Science in 1957. His growing interest in the mysteries of the universe led him to take the next major step: studying at the University of Cambridge , one of the world's most prestigious institutions. The Cambridge years: A turning point in scientific thought At Cambridge, Narlikar joined Fitzwilliam College, following in his father's footsteps. In 1959, he completed the Mathematical Tripos—a rigorous course in mathematics—earning a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics. This was a period of intense intellectual development, but Narlikar's biggest influence came from his mentor, the renowned British astronomer Fred Hoyle . Under Hoyle's guidance, Narlikar began his doctoral research in theoretical cosmology. Their scientific collaboration would later lead to groundbreaking contributions in cosmology. During his doctoral studies, Narlikar won the Smith's Prize in 1962, an award for exceptional work in theoretical physics. In 1963, he was awarded a PhD in cosmology. The following year, he earned a master's degree in astronomy and astrophysics, also from Cambridge. He stayed on as a postdoctoral fellow at King's College, and in 1966 became a founding member of the Institute of Theoretical Astronomy, established by Hoyle. Rethinking the beginning of the universe Jayant Narlikar and Fred Hoyle did not accept the widely supported Big Bang Theory as the only explanation for the origin of the universe. Instead, they co-developed the Hoyle–Narlikar theory of gravity, which introduced a different view: that the universe does not begin with a singular event, but instead experiences continuous creation of matter. This idea supported the steady-state model of the universe, which challenged the concept of a cosmic beginning. The Hoyle–Narlikar theory attempted to synthesise Einstein's general relativity with Mach's principle, a philosophical concept suggesting that the inertia of objects is influenced by the presence of all other mass in the universe. Though the theory was controversial, it opened new avenues of discussion and showed Narlikar's willingness to explore ideas outside mainstream scientific consensus. His other research interests included quantum cosmology, action-at-a-distance physics, and other non-standard models of the universe, which reflect his deep commitment to critical thinking in science. A vision for Indian science Despite his growing success in the UK, Narlikar remained connected to India. In 1972, he returned to join the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) in Mumbai, where he led the theoretical astrophysics group. His return marked the beginning of a new phase: building India's capacity in astrophysical research. In 1988, Narlikar became the founding director of the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune. IUCAA aimed to promote high-quality research and collaboration among Indian universities. Under his leadership, it became a major institution for theoretical and observational astronomy. Narlikar believed that India should not just follow scientific developments from abroad, but contribute meaningfully to global science. He was also deeply involved in science education. The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) appointed him as chairperson of a committee to redesign textbooks in science and mathematics. His efforts helped make science more accessible and engaging for school students across India. Bringing science to the public One of Jayant Narlikar's most significant contributions was his commitment to science communication. He believed that science should not be limited to laboratories and research institutions—it should be understood by the general public. Narlikar wrote numerous popular science books and articles, both in English and regional Indian languages. He also appeared on radio and television programs, explaining complex ideas in a simple and relatable manner. His efforts to bring science to the masses earned him the UNESCO Kalinga Prize in 1996, an international recognition for scientists who help popularise science and technology. Through his work, he helped foster a culture of scientific curiosity among ordinary citizens, especially young learners. Legacy of a lifelong learner and teacher Over the course of his career, Jayant Narlikar received many prestigious awards and honors. In 1965, the Government of India awarded him the Padma Bhushan, recognising his early achievements in science. Nearly four decades later, in 2004, he received the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award, for his continued excellence in scientific research. He was elected to various national and international scientific academies, including the Indian National Science Academy, Indian Academy of Sciences, and The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS). He also served as President of the International Astronomical Union's Commission on Cosmology from 1994 to 1997, further highlighting his global standing in the field of cosmology. Narlikar also received multiple honorary doctorates from Indian and foreign universities for his contributions to science and education. Jayant Narlikar passed away on May 20, 2025, leaving behind a powerful legacy. He was more than a scientist—he was a mentor, a teacher, a builder of institutions, and a communicator who believed in making science inclusive. His contributions continue to impact both theoretical physics and science education in India. Institutions he helped build, textbooks he helped revise, and the ideas he boldly proposed still influence how science is practiced and taught today. 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Hans India
21-05-2025
- Science
- Hans India
Astrophysicist Jayant Narlikar passes away at 87
Pune: Eminent astrophysicist, science communicator, and Padma Vibhushan awardee Dr Jayant Vishnu Narlikar passed away in Pune on Tuesday, family sources said. He was 87. A towering figure in Indian science, Dr Narlikar was widely known for his pioneering contributions to cosmology, his efforts to popularise science, and for setting up premier research institutions in the country. According to family sources, Dr Narlikar died in his sleep in the early hours of Tuesday. He had recently undergone hip surgery in a city-based hospital. He is survived by three daughters. Born on July 19, 1938, Dr Narlikar completed his early education on the campus of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), where his father, Vishnu Vasudeva Narlikar, was a professor and Head of the Mathematics Department, and he went to Cambridge for higher studies, becoming a Wrangler and Tyson Medallist in the Mathematical Tripos. He returned to India to join the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (1972-1989), where, under his charge, the Theoretical Astrophysics Group expanded and acquired international standing. In 1988, the University Grants Commission invited Dr Narlikar to set up the proposed Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) as its Founder Director. He held the directorship of IUCAA until his retirement in 2003. Under his direction, IUCAA has acquired a worldwide reputation as a centre for excellence in teaching and research in astronomy and astrophysics. He was an Emeritus Professor at IUCAA. In 2012, the Third World Academy of Sciences awarded Dr Narlikar their prize for setting up a centre for excellence in science. Besides his scientific research, Dr Narlikar was well-known as a science communicator through his books, articles, and radio/TV programmes. He is also known for his science fiction stories. For all these efforts, he was honoured by UNESCO in 1996 with the Kalinga Award for popular science works. Dr Narlikar was awarded Padma Bhushan in 1965 at the young age of 26. In 2004, he was awarded Padma Vibhushan, and the Maharashtra government honoured him with the state's highest civilian award, Maharashtra Bhushan, in 2011. In 2014, the Sahitya Akademi, the premiere literary body in India, selected his autobiography for its highest prize in regional language (Marathi) writing.
NDTV
20-05-2025
- Science
- NDTV
Jayant Narlikar: The Astrophysicist Who Received India's Third-Highest Civilian Award At 26
New Delhi: Astrophysicist Jayant Vishnu Narlikar died aged 87 in Pune on Tuesday. A pioneering figure in Indian science, Mr Narlikar was the founding director of the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) and a passionate science communicator. Mr Narlikar is survived by his three daughters - Geeta, Girija, and Leelavati, all of whom are involved in scientific research. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the death of Jayant Narlikar is a "monumental loss to the scientific community". "He was a luminary, especially in the field of astrophysics. His pioneering works, especially key theoretical frameworks will be valued by generations of researchers," he posted on X. "He made a mark as an institution builder, grooming centres of learning and innovation for young minds. His writings have also gone a long way in making science accessible to common citizens," PM Modi added. Who Was Jayant Narlikar? Jayant Vishnu Narlikar was born on July 19, 1938, in Kolhapur, Maharashtra. He spent his early years on the campus of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), where his father, Vishnu Vasudeva Narlikar, was Professor and Head of the Mathematics Department. His mother, Sumati Narlikar, was a scholar in Sanskrit. He earned his degree from BHU in 1957. He then moved to Cambridge University for higher education, where he became a Wrangler and won the Tyson Medal in the Mathematical Tripos. He earned multiple degrees from Cambridge: BA in 1960, PhD in 1963, MA in 1964, and ScD in 1976, specialising in astronomy and astrophysics. At Cambridge, he was awarded the Smith's Prize in 1962 and the Adams Prize in 1967. He remained at Cambridge until 1972 as a Fellow of King's College (1963-1972) and a founding staff member of the Institute of Theoretical Astronomy (1966-1972). In 1966, he married Mangala Rajwade, a mathematician with a PhD. They had three daughters. Mr Narlikar returned to India in 1972 to join the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), where he led the Theoretical Astrophysics Group to international prominence. In 1988, he was invited by the University Grants Commission to set up the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune. He served as its founding director until his retirement in 2003. After retiring, he continued as an emeritus professor. Mr Narlikar was internationally renowned for his alternative cosmological theories that challenged the popular Big Bang model. He worked on gravity, Mach's Principle, quantum cosmology, and action-at-a-distance physics. He served as President of the Cosmology Commission of the International Astronomical Union from 1994 to 1997. From 1999 to 2003, he led a space research experiment to collect microorganisms from the upper atmosphere (up to 41 km). The discovery of live cells and bacteria suggested that Earth might be continuously bombarded by microorganisms, hinting at possible extraterrestrial origins of life. Mr Narlikar was a beloved science communicator. He wrote books, articles, and created programmes for radio and TV in English, Marathi, and Hindi. In 1996, UNESCO honoured him with the Kalinga Award for science popularisation. In 1965, at the age of 26, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian honour. Later, in 2004, he received the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award. He was a Fellow of all three national science academies of India, the Royal Astronomical Society of London, and the Third World Academy of Sciences. At the age of 85, Mr Narlikar started a blog to share his stories about science and life. Today, it has over 3,000 subscribers.
NDTV
20-05-2025
- Science
- NDTV
Padma Vibhushan Astrophysicist Jayant Narlikar Dies At 87
Pune: Eminent astrophysicist, science communicator, and Padma Vibhushan awardee Dr Jayant Vishnu Narlikar passed away in Pune on Tuesday, family sources said. He was 87. A towering figure in Indian science, Dr Narlikar was widely known for his pioneering contributions to cosmology, his efforts to popularise science, and for setting up premier research institutions in the country. According to family sources, Dr Narlikar died in his sleep early Tuesday morning. He had recently undergone hip surgery in a city-based hospital. He is survived by three daughters. Born on July 19, 1938, Dr Narlikar completed his early education on the campus of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), where his father, Vishnu Vasudeva Narlikar, was a professor and Head of the Mathematics Department, and he went to Cambridge for higher studies, becoming a Wrangler and Tyson Medallist in the Mathematical Tripos. He returned to India to join the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (1972-1989), where, under his charge, the Theoretical Astrophysics Group expanded and acquired international standing. In 1988, the University Grants Commission invited Dr Narlikar to set up the proposed Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) as its Founder Director. He held the directorship of IUCAA until his retirement in 2003. Under his direction, IUCAA has acquired a worldwide reputation as a centre for excellence in teaching and research in astronomy and astrophysics. He was an Emeritus Professor at IUCAA. In 2012, the Third World Academy of Sciences awarded Dr Narlikar their prize for setting up a centre for excellence in science. Besides his scientific research, Dr Narlikar was well-known as a science communicator through his books, articles, and radio/TV programmes. He is also known for his science fiction stories. For all these efforts, he was honoured by UNESCO in 1996 with the Kalinga Award for popular science works. Dr Narlikar was awarded Padma Bhushan in 1965 at the young age of 26. In 2004, he was awarded Padma Vibhushan, and the Maharashtra government honoured him with the state's highest civilian award, Maharashtra Bhushan, in 2011. In 2014, the Sahitya Akademi, the premiere literary body in India, selected his autobiography for its highest prize in regional language (Marathi) writing. (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
