Padma Shri P. Narayana Kurup (92), a reputed poet and former state president of Tapasya Kala Sahitya Vedi, the Kerala chapter of Sanskar Bharati, breathed his last on June 20.
He served in the Central Secretariat in 1957. He worked at the Bhasha Institute during 1971–75 as Editor and Research Officer. He also worked in the Central Information & Broadcasting Department. He had also served as the Vice President of Sanskar Bharati. He authored 45 books.
He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2022. Narayana Kurup had completed an MA in English Literature and a B.Ed. He became a teacher in 1956.
Kerala Governor Rajendra Viswanath Arlekkar stated that the deceased poet carried forward the great heritage of Malayalam literature. He created a signature style in poetry and literary criticism. He had deep knowledge of literary criticism, poetry, drama, music, Bharatiya culture, arts and philosophy.
The Governor further said that Padma Shri P. Narayana Kurup’s multifaceted genius, spanning profound knowledge and erudition in poetry, criticism, drama, music, Indian cultural heritage and philosophy, was a true cultural asset to the people of Kerala.
Padmasri P. Narayana Kurup was a rare genius who deeply absorbed the great traditions of Malayalam literature and left an indelible mark on poetry and literary criticism. His passing is an irreparable loss to the world of Malayalam literature.
His multifaceted genius spanning… pic.twitter.com/WWTIip1dWQ— Kerala Governor (@KeralaGovernor) June 20, 2026
The RSS Dakshin Pranth Baithak held in Aluva observed that P. Narayana Kurup always stood with nationalism through thick and thin. The meeting paid rich tributes to him. The RSS stated that he stood by nationalist forces even though it cost him dearly. In 2010, he attended the Prantheeya Sanghik in Poorna Ganavesh at Kollam, which was addressed by RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat. The RSS observed that he worked hard for the promotion of Bharatiya culture by leading the activities of Tapasya.
Leader of the Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family. He underlined Kurup’s scholarship in poetry and literature.
BJP president Rajeev Chandrasekhar MLA visited Kurup’s house and consoled his family members.
