Renowned Astrophysicist Dr. Jayant Narlikar Laid to Rest with Full State Honours in Pune
Pune, 21st May 2025: Dr. Jayant Narlikar, the eminent astrophysicist and beloved science communicator, was cremated with full state honours on Tuesday at the Vaikunth Crematorium in Pune. His passing marks the end of a remarkable era in Indian science.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar paid tributes.
Dr. Chandrakant Pulkundwar, Divisional Commissioner of Pune, paid tribute on behalf of the Maharashtra Government by placing a floral wreath. The final rites were attended by several dignitaries, including Deputy Collector Ramhari Bhosale, Sub-Divisional Officer Poonam Ahire, Tehsildar Suryakant Yewale, along with family members, close friends, colleagues, and admirers from across disciplines.
Earlier in the day, Dr. Narlikar’s mortal remains were brought from the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), the institution he helped establish and led with distinction. His body, draped in the Indian national flag, was accorded a ceremonial gun salute by the police before the cremation. The national flag was then formally handed over to his family in a solemn gesture of respect.
A pioneer in the field of cosmology, Dr. Narlikar was best known for the Hoyle–Narlikar theory of gravity and his foundational contributions to astrophysics. Beyond his academic accomplishments, he was admired for his tireless efforts in science communication—making complex concepts accessible through books, lectures, and public outreach.
As Pune bid farewell to one of its brightest minds, tributes poured in from across India and abroad, honouring Dr. Narlikar’s lifelong dedication to scientific inquiry and his passion for inspiring future generations.
