Renowned physicist and Padma Shri awardee, Professor Rohini M Godbole, passed away on Friday, October 25, 2024, at the age of 71. She was a brilliant mind, a passionate advocate for women in science, and a true inspiration to many.

A Life Dedicated to Science

Born in 1952, Rohini Godbole was a trailblazer in the field of high-energy physics. She made significant contributions to our understanding of the fundamental particles that make up the universe. Her research focused on the Higgs boson, supersymmetry, and other areas of theoretical physics.

Godbole was a professor at the Centre for High Energy Physics at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru for over 25 years. She was a beloved teacher and mentor, inspiring countless students to pursue careers in science.

A Champion for Women in Science

In addition to her groundbreaking research, Godbole was a vocal advocate for gender equality in science. She worked tirelessly to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for women in academia. She was a role model for young women and girls, demonstrating that women can excel in science and technology.

Godbole’s passion for science extended beyond the academic world. She was a gifted communicator and often gave public lectures and talks on complex scientific topics. She was also a prolific writer, authoring several books and articles on physics and science education.

A Legacy of Inspiration

Rohini Godbole’s legacy will live on through her research, her teaching, and her advocacy for women in science. She was a true inspiration to all who knew her, and her loss will be deeply felt by the scientific community and beyond.

Tributes Pour In

Tributes have poured in from around the world for Professor Godbole. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, calling her a “pioneering scientist and innovator” who was a strong advocate for more women in science.

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, where Godbole was a visiting professor, also paid tribute to her. IISc described her as a “brilliant scientist, a passionate teacher, and a tireless advocate for women in science.” IIT Kanpur said that she was a “role model for women scientists in India.”

A Lasting Impact

Rohini Godbole’s impact on the world of science will be felt for generations to come. She was a true pioneer, a brilliant mind, and a compassionate soul. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on.

Conclusion

The passing of Rohini Godbole is a great loss to the scientific community. She was a brilliant physicist, a passionate educator, and a tireless advocate for women in science. Her contributions to the field of high-energy physics and her efforts to promote gender equality will be remembered for years to come.