Indian Scientist Who Questioned the Big Bang Theory
Indian Scientist Who Questioned the Big Bang Theory

Indian Scientist Who Questioned the Big Bang Theory

plowunited.net – In his 1983 science fiction story, Indian astrophysicist Jayant Narlikar imagined a future where students would attend classes remotely. He pictured an alien living discreetly among humans, sitting in front of a screen to join online lessons. Although the aliens have yet to appear, the concept of online education became a reality much earlier than expected. In 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic forced schools worldwide to shift to virtual classrooms. Narlikar’s foresight demonstrated his ability to anticipate how technology would transform education. This prediction reflects his broader interest in blending science with societal progress, showcasing how his imagination extended beyond astrophysics.

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Challenging the Big Bang: Narlikar’s Steady-State Universe Theory

Jayant Narlikar is best known for proposing an alternative to the Big Bang Theory, which suggests the universe began in a single explosive moment about 13.8 billion years ago. Alongside his PhD mentor, Sir Fred Hoyle, Narlikar developed the quasi-steady state model. Their theory argued that the universe has always existed and continuously expands while new matter is created. Narlikar used a banking analogy to explain this concept: just as compound interest grows capital steadily, the universe expands indefinitely, maintaining a constant appearance over time. Although less popular than the Big Bang model, this theory offered valuable scientific tools and insights into the cosmos and inspired ongoing research in cosmology.

Life and Legacy: Narlikar’s Impact on Indian Science and Education

Born on July 19, 1938, in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, Narlikar grew up in an academically rich environment. His father was a mathematician and professor, while his mother was a Sanskrit scholar. Following their footsteps, Narlikar excelled at Cambridge University, topping a prestigious mathematics course before diving deep into astrophysics. After working in the UK until 1971, he returned to India and led the Theoretical Astrophysics Group at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research. In 1988, he co-founded the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune, creating a leading research hub. Narlikar also championed science education for young students, organizing camps, lectures, and workshops to nurture future researchers.

Narlikar as a Science Communicator and Fiction Writer

Beyond his scientific contributions, Narlikar was a prolific science communicator. He wrote more than 300 research papers and authored numerous science fiction books rooted in real scientific ideas. His stories often explored futuristic themes, such as the 2015 novella Virus, which anticipated a global pandemic, and his 1986 book Waman Parat Na Ala, dealing with artificial intelligence ethics. He used fiction to make complex scientific concepts accessible and spark curiosity. Narlikar’s dedication to educating the public also extended to his blog and correspondence, where he patiently answered children’s questions, inspiring generations to appreciate science.

Commitment to Rationalism and Scientific Inquiry

Narlikar was a vocal critic of pseudoscience and superstition. He co-authored a 2008 paper debunking astrology using rigorous statistical analysis, emphasizing the importance of questioning unsupported beliefs. His rationalist outlook was deeply rooted in scientific skepticism, urging society to rely on evidence rather than myths. Colleagues recall how Narlikar’s open-mindedness encouraged young scientists to explore bold ideas, such as gravitational waves. Even in his final days, he remained engaged with science education, showing that his passion for knowledge and inquiry never waned. His funeral reflected his broad influence, attended by students, scientists, and staff alike, highlighting his lasting legacy in Indian science.