Eminent astrophysicist, science writer Dr Jayant Narlikar passes away

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

- PRESS TRUST OF INDIA

Dr Jayant Vishnu Narlikar, one of the most distinguished astrophysicists who was globally acclaimed for co-developing the Hoyle-Narlikar theory of gravityan alternative to Einstein’s general relativityand popularising science among common people, passed away in Pune Tuesday.

He was 86, family sources said.

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.

He was also known for championing the steady-state theory of the universe, a bold counterpoint to the widely accepted Big Bang model.

According to family sources, Dr Narlikar died in his sleep early morning. Narlikar had recently undergone hip surgery in a city-based hospital. He is survived by three daughters.

Dr Narlikar’s last rites will be conducted with full state honours Wednesday, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said.