Thiruvananthapuram | Eminent Malayalam poet, literary critic and Padma Shri awardee P Narayana Kurup passed away at his residence here on Saturday following age-related ailments, family sources said.
He was 92.
Kurup, who was conferred the Padma Shri in 2022 for his contributions to literature and education, was the recipient of several prestigious honours, including the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award, Odakkuzhal Award, Kerala Panini Award and Vallathol Award for his contributions to poetry and literary criticism.
Born in 1934 at Haripad in Alappuzha district, Kurup completed his post-graduation in English Literature and a BEd degree before beginning his career as a teacher in 1956.
During his long literary and academic career, he served as editor and research officer in the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Kerala Bhasha Institute.
He also worked with the Vishwavijnanakosham and Sarvavijnanakosham institutes as a guest editor.
He is survived by his wife and three children.
In his condolence message, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar said Kurup's demise was an irreparable loss to the world of Malayalam literature.
"Kurup was a rare genius who deeply absorbed the great traditions of Malayalam literature and left an indelible mark on poetry and literary criticism," the Governor said.
Recalling his multifaceted contributions, Arlekar said Kurup's profound knowledge and scholarship in poetry, criticism, drama, music, Indian cultural heritage and philosophy made him a true cultural asset for the people of Kerala.
"The invaluable contributions he rendered to Malayalam poetry, literature and culture will be remembered and cherished for all time," he added.
Chief Minister V D Satheesan also expressed grief over the poet's demise and described him as a literary figure who created new interpretations in Malayalam poetry and criticism.
"His lucid and distinctive style of writing made him stand apart. He has also left behind numerous books that will remain valuable assets for future generations of Malayalam readers," he said.
His demise is a loss to the Malayalam language, Satheesan added.
Leader of Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan, state Devaswom Minister K Muraleedharan and BJP state chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar also condoled the death of the veteran poet-critic.
