Kolkata,22nd September, 2025 :
The Library, Documentation and Information Sciences Division in collaboration with Physics & Applied Mathematics Unit (PAMU) and Theoretical Statistics & Mathematics Unit (TSMU), Kolkata of the Indian Statistical Institute have jointly organized a Public Outreach Programme on “Cosmic Adventures: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Prof. J. V. Narlikar” to commemorate the contribution of Prof. Narlikar in the field of astrophysics as well as cosmology on 22nd September, 2025 (today).
The inaugural programme was held at 11.00 AM in the Platinum Jubilee Auditorium of the Institute with the gracious presence of Prof. Dipti Prasad Mukherjee, Deputy Director andhe delivered his inaugural address to the participants. He welcome the participants and called to advance for the encouragement of the science especially for cosmology so, that our nation will develop in the field of astronomy. Dr. Kishor Chandra Satpathy, Chief Librarian of the Institute delivered his welcome address and express the contribution of Prof. J. V. Narlikar in the field of cosmology in India.
The Outreach Programme focused on the scope of learning about the research areas of Astrophysics & Cosmology including the contribution of Prof. Jayant Vishu Narlikar and his pioneering attribution in cosmology involvement of our country. The programme also highlighted his research on the Hoyle–Narlikar theory, significant work on quasi-steady state cosmology, popularising science and establishing the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) which was one of the leading Institutes in India bringing Astrophysics to the forefront. Around 200 participants from different high school, college students, researchers of several schools, colleges and institutions from the districts of West Bengal participated in this one day public outreach programme. It encouraged the young generations from student and researchers community to advance for the study and research in science especially in Cosmology including Astrophysics.
Eminent academicians and researchers like Prof. Soumitro Banerjee, IISER, Kolkata; Prof. Supratik Pal, PAMU, ISI, Kolkata, Shri Manas Pratim Das, Programme Executive, All India Radio, Prashar Bharti, Kolkata; Prof. Pradipta Bandyopadhayay, TSMU, ISI, Kolkata delivered lectures, which explored on the cosmos and Narlikar’s contribution in the field. These lectures motivated the young India generations among the participants, who will pursue astronomy and cosmology in their future studies.
