It is not yet time to make a verdict on the work of Stephen Hawking. Newton and Einstein are giants who rule the world of science. It is true that Hawking has said some significant things about the universe. He has asked significant questions but he has not provided adequate answers. Anybody can ask questions. Asking questions does not make a person a genius.
Hawking used to ask daring, unexpected and penetrating questions during the sessions involving some of the most famous and distinguished scientists in the world. That is how he earned his name as ‘a genius’ and as ‘another Einstein’. I don’t think his mind is on par with the likes of Newton and Einstein. Time may prove me wrong. But for the moment I stick to my answer.