The year 2025 will be remembered with deep sorrow in Pune’s collective memory. The city that has long been a cradle of knowledge, reform, science, and culture bid farewell to several towering personalities who left behind an indelible mark on Indian society.
As we reflect on their extraordinary journeys, here is a tribute to the “Gems” that Pune lost in 2025, legacies that will continue to inspire long after their passing.
Dr. Jayant Narlikar was one of India’s most celebrated astrophysicists, globally known for his pioneering work in cosmology, especially the Hoyle–Narlikar theory of gravity and the steady-state model of the universe.
Beyond research, Narlikar was a passionate science communicator, author, and mentor who inspired thousands to look up at the universe with curiosity. He passed away on May 20, 2025, in Pune at the age of 86.
Dr. Baba Adhav, a towering figure in Maharashtra’s social and labour movements, dedicated more than six decades to fighting for the rights, dignity, and social security of unorganised and marginalised workers.
His pioneering campaigns, including the Hamal Panchayat and Rickshaw Panchayat, transformed labour rights discourse in India. A writer, activist, and humanitarian to the core, he remained a guiding force for generations. He passed away on December 8, 2025, at the age of 95.
Dr. Hema Sane, botanist, environmentalist, author, and professor, lived a life rooted in simplicity and ecological conviction. For over 60 years, she chose to live without electricity as a personal commitment to environmental harmony.
Her research, books, and teachings nurtured an appreciation for nature among students and citizens alike. She passed away on September 19, 2025, at the age of 85.
A revered historian and meticulous researcher, Gajanan Bhaskar Mehendale was widely recognised as an authority on the life and times of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
His books reshaped the understanding of Maratha history for scholars and lay readers alike. Mehendale passed away in September 2025 in Pune at the age of 78.
Dr. Deepak Tilak, respected academician, journalist, and social worker, carried forward the legacy of his great-grandfather, Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, with dignity and commitment. As an educationist and editor, he contributed immensely to public discourse and cultural life in Pune. Known for his gentle leadership and scholarly approach, he passed away in July 2025 at the age of 78.
Eknath Vasant Chitnis was a visionary space scientist and one of the foundational architects of India’s space programme. A close associate of Vikram Sarabhai, he played a crucial role in shaping ISRO’s early direction and growth.
His contributions laid the groundwork for India’s strides in space research and satellite development. Chitnis passed away on October 22, 2025, in Pune at the remarkable age of 100.
Madhav Vaze was a respected actor, director, and theatre artist who left a lasting imprint on Marathi theatre and cinema. He is fondly remembered for his role as young Shyam in the iconic 1953 film Shyamchi Aai, a performance that touched millions.
Over the decades, Vaze contributed greatly to stagecraft, acting, and the cultural vibrancy of Maharashtra. He passed away on May 7, 2025, at the age of 85.
Dr. Meena Prabhu, beloved Marathi author and former anesthesiologist, was one of the most celebrated travel writers in the Marathi literary world. Her vivid, insightful travelogues opened windows to distant cultures and experiences for countless readers. She passed away in Pune on March 1, 2025, at the age of 85.
A distinguished theoretical physicist, Naresh Dadhich was instrumental in establishing the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune alongside Jayant Narlikar and Ajit Kembhavi.
His work advanced India’s position in frontline research in gravity and astrophysics. As IUCAA’s former Director, he nurtured a generation of scientists and upheld a culture of academic excellence. Dadhich passed away in 2025 at the age of 81.