Goan Personalities

Renowned Astrophysicist Dr. Jayant Vishnu Narlikar Passes Away at 87


Dr. Jayant Vishnu Narlikar, a celebrated Indian astrophysicist and science communicator, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his Pune residence on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. He was 87 years old. Narlikar’s demise marks the end of a luminous era in Indian science and literature, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations.

Born on July 19, 1938, in Kolhapur, Narlikar was raised in an intellectually vibrant environment. His father, Vishnu Vasudeva Narlikar, was a noted mathematician and Head of the Mathematics Department at Banaras Hindu University (BHU). Narlikar completed his early education in Varanasi and later earned his BA, MA, and PhD from the University of Cambridge, UK, where he became a Wrangler and Tyson Medallist in the Mathematical Tripos .

Narlikar’s contributions to cosmology are monumental. He worked with Sir Fred Hoyle on the “Conformal Gravity Theory” and proposed alternatives to the Big Bang theory. His work at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) and later as the founding director of the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune, earned him international recognition. Under his leadership, IUCAA became a globally respected hub for astrophysics education and research .

Narlikar’s achievements were recognized with numerous awards, including:

  • Padma Bhushan (1965): At just 26 years old, Narlikar received this prestigious award for his outstanding contributions to astrophysics.
  • Padma Vibhushan (2004): This esteemed award further acknowledged his groundbreaking work in cosmology.
  • Kalinga Prize (1996): UNESCO honored Narlikar for his exceptional efforts in popularizing science.
  • Maharashtra Bhushan (2011): The Maharashtra government awarded him its highest civilian honor.
  • Sahitya Akademi Award (2014): His Marathi-language autobiography, “Char Nagarantale Maze Vishva,” earned this prestigious literary award .

Narlikar’s impact extends beyond academia. He was a passionate science communicator who authored popular science books and articles, and appeared frequently on radio and television to explain complex scientific ideas in simple terms. His science fiction stories, particularly for young readers, further cemented his role as a public intellectual and mentor. Narlikar’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of scientists, researchers, and science enthusiasts 

Goan Personalities

A Love that Shines Bright: Minister Vishwajit Rane and MLA Deviya Rane Celebrate Wedding Anniversary


In a heartwarming display of love and affection, Minister Vishwajit Rane and MLA Deviya Rane exchanged sweet messages on their wedding anniversary. On May 17th, they celebrated another year of marriage, filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams.

Deviya Rane’s heartfelt note to her husband Vishwajit Rane read, “Together in life, stronger in every stride. Celebrating another year of love, companionship, and shared dreamsโ€ฆ Hereโ€™s to continuing this walk side by sideโ€”with purpose, with grace, and with gratitude for all that life brings.”

Minister Vishwajit Rane responded with an equally loving message, “To my loving wife, and MLA of Poriem Constituency, your love and laughter lights up our world. Another year of sharing life with you feels like the greatest gift.”

As public figures in Goa, Minister Vishwajit Rane and MLA Deviya Rane have made significant contributions to the state’s development. Their love and support for each other are an inspiration to many.

Their exchange is a beautiful reminder of the love and support they share, both in their personal and public lives. Congratulations to the lovely couple on their wedding anniversary! May their bond continue to grow stronger with each passing day.

Goan Personalities

Honoring Smt. Libia Lobo Prataprao Sardesai: A True Champion of Freedom and Social Justice


The prestigious Padma Shri award was conferred upon Smt. Libia Lobo Prataprao Sardesai, a distinguished freedom fighter, social worker, and activist, by President Droupadi Murmu. This esteemed award recognizes her outstanding contributions to social work, empowering women, and fighting for consumer rights.


Smt. Sardesai played a significant role in Goa’s liberation struggle against the Portuguese regime. As a co-founder of the “Voice of Freedom” radio station, she courageously broadcast messages, inspiring her fellow Goans to fight for their rights. On December 19, 1961, she made a historic declaration, announcing Goa’s freedom.

Smt. Sardesai’s achievements extend beyond her role in the liberation struggle. She was:

  • Goa’s first woman advocate
  • Founder of the first Women’s Cooperative Bank in Goa (1973)
  • A champion of women’s rights and consumer welfare
  • A lecturer in Constitutional Law
  • Founder of the AIWC Jubilee College of Home Sciences, Goa


Throughout her life, Smt. Sardesai has dedicated herself to social service, inspiring generations with her work. Her recognition with the Padma Shri award reaffirms the nation’s gratitude for her dedication to public service and human dignity.

Key Highlights

  • Freedom Fighter: Played a significant role in Goa’s liberation struggle
  • First Woman Advocate: Paved the way for future generations
  • Social Worker: Focused on women’s empowerment and consumer rights
  • Entrepreneurial Initiative: Founded the Women’s Cooperative Bank
  • Educator: Served as a lecturer and founded the AIWC Jubilee College


Smt. Libia Lobo Prataprao Sardesai’s remarkable life and achievements serve as an inspiration to all. Her dedication to social service, women’s empowerment, and consumer welfare has left a lasting impact on Goa and beyond.

#AllycaralFeature ๐Ÿ‘’, Goan Personalities

Goa’s Power Couple MLA Michael and MLA Delilah Lobo Celebrate Anniversary with Heartfelt Messages


In a heartwarming display of love and appreciation, Goa’s political couple Michael Lobo and Delilah Lobo celebrated their anniversary with sweet messages to each other. The couple, who are both MLAs in Goa, took to social media to express their gratitude and admiration for each other.

Michael Lobo, the MLA of Calangute, led the way with a heartfelt message to his wife Delilah. “Happy Anniversary to the love and strength of my life,” he wrote. “Thank you for being an unwavering source of support and for fulfilling your role as a loving wife and mother with such grace.” Michael also praised Delilah’s hard work and dedication as the MLA of Siolim Constituency, calling it “truly inspiring”.


Delilah Lobo, the MLA of Siolim, responded with an equally sweet message to her husband Michael. “Happy Anniversary to the one who is my greatest support and constant source of strength,” she wrote. “Iโ€™m so grateful for the love, dedication and commitment you bring to our family and to your role as the MLA of Calangute Constituency.” Delilah also acknowledged Michael’s passion for serving others, calling it “truly inspiring”.


The couple’s loving exchange showcases their strong bond and mutual respect for each other’s work and dedication to their constituents. Despite their busy schedules as MLAs, Michael and Delilah have always prioritized their family and relationship. Their anniversary celebration is a testament to their enduring love and commitment to each other.


As news of their anniversary spread, wishes poured in from friends, family, and colleagues. The couple’s constituents also took to social media to wish them a happy anniversary and express their appreciation for their hard work and dedication to Goa.

Here’s to many more years of love, happiness, and service to Goa for Michael and Delilah Lobo!

#AllycaralFeature ๐Ÿ‘’, Goan Personalities

Health Minister Vishwajit Rane Extends Warm Wishes to Joshua De Souza on His Wedding


In a heartwarming gesture, Goa’s Health Minister Vishwajit Rane visited the residence of Shri Joshua De Souza, MLA of Mapusa Constituency, to extend his warmest wishes on the occasion of his wedding. This thoughtful act reflects the strong bond between the two leaders and their families.


Rane’s visit to Joshua’s residence was a testament to the deep respect and admiration he has for the De Souza family. During his visit, he had the pleasure of meeting Joshua’s mother and reminiscing about cherished memories. The two leaders fondly remembered Joshua’s late father, former Deputy Chief Minister of Goa, Shri Francis D’Souza, whose invaluable contributions to the state have left a lasting legacy.


Rane expressed his heartfelt wishes to Joshua and his wife, praying that they have a lifetime filled with love, joy, and togetherness. He also wished Joshua and his family the very best always, reflecting the deep affection and respect he has for the family.


As Joshua begins this new chapter in his life, he has the well-wishes and support of his colleagues, friends, and family. Rane’s visit was a reminder that even in the midst of busy political lives, personal relationships and friendships are cherished and nurtured.