Botanist K.S. Manilal, who revived Hortus Malabaricus, passes away at 86
The Padma Shri awardee spent about 35 years translating and annotating the 12-volume Latin treatise.
Summary
Botanist K.S. Manilal, the Padma Shri awardee known for reviving the 17th-century Latin botanical treatise Hortus Malabaricus, passed away in Thrissur, Kerala, on 1 January 2025 at the age of 86. K.S. Manilal, a former professor of botany at Calicut University, devoted about 35 years to researching, translating and annotating the 12-volume Hortus Malabaricus, and its English translation was published in 2003. Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled his death, saying his work in botany will remain a guiding light for future botanists and researchers.
Key facts
- Died
- 1 January 2025, Thrissur, Kerala; aged 86
- Known for
- Research, translation and annotation of Hortus Malabaricus (~35 years)
- Hortus Malabaricus
- 17th-century Latin treatise in 12 volumes on the plants of Kerala/Malabar
- English translation
- Published 2003
- Career
- Professor of botany, Calicut University
- Honour
- Padma Shri, 2020
Practice MCQs 2 questions
Botanist K.S. Manilal, who died on 1 January 2025, is best known for his work on which treatise?
Show answer
Correct answer: C — Hortus Malabaricus
The Hindu; Indian Express: Manilal devoted about 35 years to the research, translation and annotation of the Latin botanical treatise Hortus Malabaricus.
In which year was K.S. Manilal awarded the Padma Shri?
Show answer
Correct answer: D — 2020
The Hindu; Indian Express: Manilal was awarded the Padma Shri in 2020 for his contributions to botany.