Historian MGS Narayanan died 26 April 2025. PHOTO CREDIT: RAMESHCKUCKUP WITH
Regardless of his strong disagreements with the identification of the archaeological point of view of Pattanama as the ancient port of Muziris, historian MGS Narayanan played a key role in shaping the Muziris Heritage Project project, recalls OD Satheesen, opposition leader and legislator and lawmaker.
“I remember his lively arguments with other historians during the initial seminar at Muziris, which took place in northern paravure. He openly expressed his concerns and firmly stated that there were insufficient archaeological evidence claiming Pattanam as an ancient port of Muziris,” recalls Mr. Sathesen.
MGS Narayanan consistently argued that Pattanam was not Muziris, and criticized the Keral Council for historical research (KCHR) for what he believed were historical inaccuracies in their identification. He advocated for the use of “MAZDAYA” – a historically anchored name, instead of Eurocentric “Muziris”.
According to him, it was Kodungalloor, a port city dominated by the Cheraman chiefs of ancient Tamizhakam, their political center is located inland in the karur near Modern Tiruchi, which actually held the identity of ancient Muziris.
Yet, despite his theoretical differences, MGS Narayanan has never allowed his opposition to project his commitment to the Muziris Heritage project.
“He was convinced of the existence of a prosperous ancient port in Pattanamo, which had business ties with more than 34 countries. He recognized evidence of pulsating port culture in the region, discovered during excavations,” Satheesan said.
“It was this belief that he led him to participate in the Muziris seminar, although he used the platform to broadcast his objections. As an organizer, I had to go through divergent scientific views, but also respect my position,” Mr. Satheesen added.
He also remembered the deep concerns of MGS Narayanan about the slow progress of the Muziris Heritage project in the last decade. “This really emphasized the determination of the historian to preserve the rich historical heritage of Kerala,” said Mr. Satheesan.
Published – April 26, 2025 01:37
