Key Points

The mortal remains of former ISRO scientist Nellai Su Muthu were brought to Madurai for public homage. He was a prolific writer with over 70 books spanning science, poetry, and children's literature. Muthu worked closely with APJ Abdul Kalam at Sriharikota's space center during his ISRO career. His passing marks the loss of a scientist who made complex topics accessible in Tamil.

Key Points: ISRO Scientist Nellai Su Muthu's Remains Brought to Madurai for Homage

  • Nellai Su Muthu authored 70+ books on science and literature
  • Worked at Sriharikota's Satish Dhawan Space Centre
  • Won multiple awards including Tamil Development Dept's Best Book
  • Collaborated with APJ Abdul Kalam during ISRO tenure
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Tamil Nadu: Mortal remains of former ISRO scientist Nellai Su Muthu brought to Madurai

Former ISRO scientist and acclaimed Tamil author Nellai Su Muthu, who collaborated with APJ Abdul Kalam, passes away at 74.

"A life dedicated to spreading science in a language the common man can understand - PV Venkitakrishnan, Former ISRO Director"

Madurai, June 17

The mortal remains of ISRO's former scientist Nellai Su Muthu were brought to Madurai for public homage on Tuesday.

Nellai Su. Muthu (74) passed away in Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram on June 16 due to ill health.

He had served as a senior scientist at the Sriharikota Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

PV Venkitakrishnan, a former director at ISRO in a social media post said that Muthu was a renowned scientist, science writer, and author of over 70 books on various topics, including science, children's literature, poetry, history, translation, and criticism.

Some notable works include 'Sevvayil Ulvetkkaiyum Nal Vaaippum' (Exploration and Fortune in Mars), exploring Greek myths and modern scientific possibilities about Mars. His 'Vinveli 2057' (SKY 2057), had won the best book award in Mathematics, Astronomy, Physics, and Chemistry categories for 2000

'Arivuttum Vigyaana Vilaiyaatu' (Science Tricks That Provide Knowledge), won the best book award in Children's Literature category for 2004. 'Einsteinum Andaveliyum' (Einstein and Space), had won the best book award in Biography and Personal History categories for 2005.

Muthu, said the former ISRO director had worked as a senior scientist at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota and collaborated with former President APJ Abdul Kalam.

He received several awards, including the Kavimamani Award from the World Tamil Poets Association of Malaysia and the Best Book Award from the Tamil Development Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu.

"A life dedicated to spreading science and scientific awareness in a language which common man can understand," Venkitakrishnan said in his post adding "Pranams to my friend."

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
What a remarkable life! To contribute to ISRO's missions AND write 70+ books to popularize science in Tamil - truly inspiring. His work with Dr. Kalam must have been incredible. India needs more scientists like him who bridge the gap between research and common people. 🙏
P
Priya M.
As someone from Madurai, I'm proud that our city produced such a multi-talented personality. His children's science books were my introduction to astronomy! The way he explained complex concepts in simple Tamil was magical. Hope schools include his works in their curriculum.
K
Karthik S.
While we rightly celebrate his achievements, I wish ISRO and state government had recognized his contributions more when he was alive. Scientists who popularize science deserve as much recognition as those doing pure research. His Mars book sounds fascinating - will order it today.
M
Meena R.
A true renaissance man of Tamil literature and science! To excel in both technical fields and creative writing is rare. His passing is a huge loss for Tamil Nadu's intellectual circle. Hope someone compiles his complete works - would make a great tribute.
S
Suresh V.
Salutes to this great son of Tamil soil! His books made science accessible to lakhs of Tamil readers. The fact that he won awards in Malaysia shows his global impact. ISRO should establish an annual lecture in his name to inspire young scientists.
A
Ananya P.
My children grew up reading his science books! The way he connected Greek myths with modern astronomy in 'Sevvayil...' was brilliant. We need more regional language science communicators like him across India. His legacy will live on through his writings. 🌟

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