Nagpur: Internationally-acclaimed astrophysicist and science communicator, Jayant Narlikar, maintained strong ties with the scientific, academic, and literary scenario in Nagpur and Vidarbha. Though Narlikar was based in Pune, where he breathed his last on Tuesday, his frequent interactions and visits with regional science forums and his ability to communicate science in Marathi made him a respected figure in the region.Dr Narlikar’s tryst with Nagpur dates back to the 1980s when he visited the Govt Science College to guide aspiring scientists. Over the years, he continued to inspire young minds through engagements at institutions like Shri Shivaji Science College, where he participated in the INSPIRE programme — always emphasising the need to blend scientific inquiry with ethical clarity and cultural consciousness.As news of his demise spread, leading personalities from Nagpur and Maharashtra paid heartfelt tributes to the late scientist. Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said, “A brilliant mind who illuminated India’s scientific image and established the importance of astronomy has departed. Dr Narlikar’s contribution to Indian science is unmatched.”Union minister Nitin Gadkari, expressing deep sorrow, tweeted, “The nation has lost a celestial beacon in the world of astrophysics. Dr Narlikar simplified complex scientific ideas for the common man and was tireless in his efforts to spread scientific thinking.”Dr Prakash Amte called it “a deeply sad moment,” recalling Narlikar’s decades-long commitment to research and science communication: “He utilised every medium — books, articles, lectures — to make astronomy understandable for the masses,” said Amte.Vidarbha Sahitya Sangh (VSS) president Pradip Date highlighted Narlikar’s impact on science fiction in Marathi: “He gave Marathi literature a taste for science storytelling. He used to say that if science is bitter, fiction is the sugar coating that helps people absorb it.”Ashish Shelar, minister of cultural affairs, said, “Dr Narlikar’s work on the origin of the universe and his efforts to democratise science are lighthouses for current and future generations.”MLC Sandip Joshi paid tribute, calling Narlikar “an inspiring writer and science communicator whose work gave Indian science a global platform”. “A brilliant star has set,” he said. MLC Dr Parinay Fuke stressed Dr Narlikar modernised Indian astronomy and scientific thought. “He made science part of common discourse through his simple yet powerful writing,” said Fuke.Academicians, scientists, social workers, and literature lovers also paid glowing tributes to Narlikar.