Sat Apr 26 08:07:31 UTC 2025: ## Eminent Historian M.G.S. Narayanan Passes Away; Remembered for Muziris Project Contributions

**Kottayam, April 26, 2025** – Renowned historian M.G.S. Narayanan passed away today. Despite disagreeing with the identification of Pattanam as the ancient port of Muziris, he played a crucial role in the Muziris Heritage Project, according to V.D. Satheesan, Leader of the Opposition in Kerala.

Mr. Satheesan recalled Narayanan’s spirited debates at the project’s initial seminar, where he openly challenged the lack of evidence supporting Pattanam’s claim. Narayanan consistently argued that Kodungalloor, a harbour town ruled by the Cheraman chiefs, was the true Muziris, and criticized the Kerala Council for Historical Research for historical inaccuracies. He advocated for the name “Mahodaya” over the “Eurocentric” “Muziris.”

However, his disagreements didn’t hinder his commitment to the project. Mr. Satheesan highlighted Narayanan’s belief in Pattanam’s significance as a thriving ancient port with extensive trade links, stating that this conviction motivated his participation in the seminar despite his public objections. He also noted Narayanan’s deep concern regarding the project’s slow progress in recent years. Narayanan’s dedication to preserving Kerala’s historical legacy is widely acknowledged.

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