Delhi’s Nehru Planetarium director Nandivada Rathnasree dies of COVID-19

Passionate and notable astronomy educator Nandivada Rathnasree, 57, died on Sunday due to COVID-19 complications. She was also the first chairperson of the Astronomical Society of India’s public outreach and education committee (ASI-POEC). The society mentioned her relentless efforts to bring in astronomical education in the society, as she was recently involved in a project called, ‘Astro Adda’, a fortnightly online discussion with students. Her demise comes as a grave loss, not just for India but across the world.

The eminent educator was appointed as the director of Nehru Planetarium and Science Museum in the year 1999 and was in the position for 21 outstanding years until her death. She has been a storyteller to countless students by bringing the world of cosmos to classrooms. 

Paying a tribute to the Scientist, Inter-University Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) said, “She was one of the most active science communicators in the country and was driven to help disseminate Astronomy to the public, especially the kids, and was an inspiration to countless people to take up Astronomy and Science Communication.

Union minister of culture sent condolences to her family. “Extremely saddened to learn about the unfortunate demise of Dr N. Rathnasree, Director of Nehru Planetarium under @NMML passed away on sunday. Heartfelt condolences to the family & prayers for the departed soul & God to provide strength to the bereaved family,” the ministry tweeted.

Rathnashree is survived by her husband, Patrick Das Gupta, a professor in Delhi University’s Department of Physics and Astrophysics, a son, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter.