Eminent historian A.V. Narasimha Murthy passes away in Mysuru
Eminent historian, archaeologist, Indologist and numismatist Dr. A.V. Narasimha Murthy, former Professor of Ancient History and Archaeology at the University of Mysore, passed away at
Eminent historian, archaeologist, Indologist and numismatist Dr. A.V. Narasimha Murthy, former Professor of Ancient History and Archaeology at the University of Mysore, passed away at a private hospital here on Sunday following a brief illness. He was 91. Murthy is survived by his wife Kamalamba, son A.N. Santosh Kumar, Vice-Chancellor of JSS Science and Technology University, daughter A.N. Savitha, daughter-in-law, son-in-law, grandchildren and a great-granddaughter, besides a large number of relatives, friends and students. His last rites will be performed at Harishchandra Ghat in Mysuru on Monday at 3 p.m., according to family sources.
A distinguished scholar associated with the study of the ancient history and cultural heritage of Karnataka and India, Murthy made significant contributions to teaching, research and the advancement of historical and archaeological studies during his tenure at the University of Mysore. He made notable contributions particularly to Indian numismatics, ancient history, archaeology, epigraphy and cultural history. His scholarship on coins and monetary systems earned him national recognition. His works include The Coins of Karnataka, besides several studies on the early historic archaeology and numismatics of Karnataka. A prolific author, Murthy wrote more than 50 books and numerous research papers and scholarly articles on India’s historical and cultural traditions.
His academic work inspired generations of students, researchers and scholars. A major felicitation volume, Narsimhapriyā, containing scholarly essays on archaeology, epigraphy, numismatics, art, architecture, iconography and cultural history, was brought out in recognition of his contributions. Beyond academia, Murthy played an important role in promoting and preserving India’s cultural heritage. He served as the Chairman of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Mysuru, for over two decades and contributed to its efforts to promote Indian knowledge, culture, education and heritage, according to a note. His contributions were recognised through several honours, including the Karnataka Rajyotsava award and the Karnataka Purathathva Ratna award.
He was also the recipient of the Dr. Paduru Gururaja Bhat Memorial award for his contributions to Indian archaeology, ancient history and numismatics, and the Numismatic Society of India Silver Medal for his contribution to Indian numismatics and lifetime achievement in the field. “Through his writings, research and mentorship, Mr. Murthy contributed significantly to a deeper understanding of India’s ancient past and enriched the intellectual and cultural landscape of Mysuru and Karnataka,” the note added.
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