Gandhinagar:  After a remarkable journey of over three decades and 369 issues, Gujarat’s beloved science magazine Safari has officially ceased publication. In a heartfelt farewell letter titled “The Last Journey of Safari Is Over,” the magazine’s 81-year-old founder, editor, and publisher Nagendra Vijay(81) announced the end of the magazine’s run in its final issue.

In an emotional two-page message, Vijay conveyed his decision. The clash between his persistent passion and the stark reality of changing times, he explained, led to this difficult conclusion.

“I am in the 81st year of my life, but I still want to keep the Gyan Yajna called Safari burning,” he wrote. “Unfortunately, I am helpless despite being physically and mentally capable.”

Launched with a mission to simplify complex scientific concepts for the common reader, Safari became a household name in Gujarati families, especially among students and curious minds. Its hallmark was the unique ability to make science both accessible and exciting. But the magazine’s decline in readership in the age of smartphones and social media proved to be an insurmountable challenge.

“I want to write, but I don’t have readers,” Vijay noted with visible pain. “The spread of Safari today is not even one-sixth of what it once was.”

Despite health setbacks—including a serious spinal injury in 2007 that left his right leg partially paralyzed—Nagendra Vijay continued publishing without interruption. He recounted days spent writing for nearly 24 hours straight, committed to producing content that was both scientifically accurate and spiritually aligned.

Throughout his career, Nagendra Vijay resisted commercial advertisements, citing ethical and spiritual reasons. He firmly refused ads that featured women in a way he deemed inappropriate or those that made scientifically unsound claims.

“Money that is not sattvik has no place in my house,” he wrote, describing his minimalist lifestyle and dedication to national and social service.

Nagendra Vijay credited his inspiration to the sacrifice of freedom fighter Khudiram Bose, which he read about as a teenager. The story profoundly impacted his worldview and guided him toward a lifetime of selfless service through writing.

“From that moment, I vowed to only engage in work beneficial to society,” he recalled.

Over his 65-year career, Nagendra Vijay authored hundreds of articles and books and edited science magazines like Scope and Safari. Despite retiring from publication, he hinted at the possibility of sharing his knowledge through a new platform—YouTube—with the support of well-wishers.

For current subscribers, Safari has announced two refund options: either receive the balance through UPI or opt for books from Harshal Publications worth ₹100–150 more than the subscription balance. Subscribers are encouraged to communicate their preference by calling the office at 02717-488550 between 11 AM and 2 PM before June 20, 2025.

Ending his message with blessings and a patriotic salute, Nagendra Vijay signed off:

“Vande Mataram. Jai to Mother India.”

The closure of Safari marks the end of a golden chapter in Gujarati science communication—one built on passion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to truth.

Meanwhile, number of social media users have urged government to felicitate Nagendra Vijay with Padma award for his contribution to Science knowledge and Science literature. DeshGujarat

 

‘Safari’ July 2001 ~ BRAHMOS Missile !! pic.twitter.com/PjqWchZFev

— Aditi Raval 🇮🇳 (@aditiraval) June 2, 2025