Prominent Historian and Former ICHR Chairman MGS Narayanan Passes Away
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Synopsis
MGS Narayanan, a distinguished historian and former Chairman of the ICHR, passed away at the age of 93 in Kozhikode. He was known for his significant contributions to historical research and education, having authored over 200 books and held various esteemed positions throughout his career.
Key Takeaways
- MGS Narayanan was the former Chairman of ICHR.
- He led the department at Calicut University from 1976 to 1990.
- Born on August 20, 1932, in Ponnani, Kerala.
- Authored more than 200 books in multiple languages.
- Recognized for his influential PhD thesis on Kerala's history.
Kozhikode, April 26 (NationPress) MGS Narayanan, the former Chairman of the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR), has died here on Saturday.
He had been facing age-related health challenges and had been unwell for some time. He was 93 years old, and his last rites are scheduled for later today.
Narayanan led the department at Calicut University from 1976 until 1990 and was at the helm of the ICHR from 2001 to 2003.
Born in Ponnani on August 20, 1932, he pursued his early education in and around Kozhikode and Thrissur. He earned his Master's degree in History from Madras Christian College and completed his PhD at the University of Kerala in 1973.
His PhD dissertation meticulously reconstructed the history of Kerala from 800 to 1124 CE, and it has been recognized by historians as one of the most competent and comprehensive Indian theses.
Narayanan served as the general secretary of the Indian History Congress from 1982 to 1985 and was a visiting fellow at the Institute of Oriental Studies in Moscow University in 1991.
He held the position of Member-Secretary of the Indian Council of Historical Research from 1990 to 1992.
Throughout his career, Narayanan was celebrated as an expert in ancient history and was known for his belief in Hindutva, embracing his identity as a Hindu and a custodian of a rich cultural tradition.
He authored over 200 books and was proficient in English, Tamil, and Sanskrit.
Interestingly, MGS Narayanan, fondly known as MGS, was also a poet and a painter, although his heart always lay with history.
Despite his extensive knowledge, he attracted both admirers and critics, especially as he often voiced his opinions on political and social matters.
He is survived by his wife and two children.
