Thiruvananthapuram: Eminent Malayalam poet, literary critic and Padma Shri awardee P Narayana Kurup passed away at his residence on Saturday following age-related ailments, family sources said. He was 92.

A towering figure in Malayalam literature, Kurup was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2022 in recognition of his outstanding contributions to literature and education. Over the course of his distinguished career, he received numerous accolades, including the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award, Odakkuzhal Award, Kerala Panini Award and Vallathol Award for his achievements in poetry and literary criticism.

Born in 1934 in Haripad, Alappuzha district, Kurup completed a postgraduate degree in English Literature and a Bachelor of Education before embarking on a teaching career in 1956.

His literary and academic journey spanned several decades and included key roles as editor and research officer with the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Kerala Bhasha Institute. He also served as a guest editor for the Vishwavijnanakosham and Sarvavijnanakosham institutions.

Kurup is survived by his wife and three children.

Paying tribute to the veteran poet, Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar described his death as an irreparable loss to Malayalam literature.

“Kurup was a rare genius who absorbed the finest traditions of Malayalam literature and left an enduring imprint on poetry and literary criticism,” the Governor said in his condolence message.

Arlekar noted that Kurup’s deep scholarship in poetry, criticism, drama, music, Indian cultural heritage and philosophy made him a valuable cultural asset for Kerala. “His immense contributions to Malayalam poetry, literature and culture will be remembered and cherished for generations,” he added.

Chief Minister V D Satheesan also expressed sorrow at Kurup’s passing, describing him as a literary figure who brought fresh perspectives to Malayalam poetry and criticism.

“His clear and distinctive writing style set him apart. He leaves behind a rich body of work that will remain a treasured resource for future generations of readers,” the Chief Minister said.

He added that Kurup’s death represented a significant loss to the Malayalam language and its literary heritage.

Leader of the Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan, State Devaswom Minister K Muraleedharan and BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar also expressed condolences on the demise of the veteran poet and critic.

(PTI)