Varsha P. Kulkarni, a professor in the University of South Carolina’s Department of Physics and Astronomy, received the Hind Rattan Award on Aug. 12, 2026, in Oxford, United Kingdom. 

Presented by the Non-Resident Indian Welfare Society of India, the Hind Rattan Award recognizes people of Indian origin living outside India for outstanding contributions in their fields. The award is among the highest honors presented to members of the global Indian diaspora. 

Kulkarni was recognized for her accomplishments in astronomy and her contributions to the field through her research and academic career, particularly her work using cosmic dust to answer questions about how the universe has evolved over huge timespans.  

Kulkarni received the award from the Lord Mayor of Oxford during a ceremony in Oxford.