Renowned Sociologist P K B Nayar, Pioneer in Gerontology and Women's Studies, Passes Away at 96
The academic and social welfare communities are mourning the loss of P K B Nayar, a distinguished sociologist and trailblazer in the fields of gerontology and women's studies, who died on Thursday in Thiruvananthapuram at the age of 96. His demise marks the end of an era for Indian sociology, where his contributions have left an indelible impact.
A Scholarly Legacy with Multiple Master's Degrees and a PhD
Nayar's academic journey was nothing short of extraordinary. He earned five master's degrees and a PhD from the University of Pittsburgh, showcasing his relentless pursuit of knowledge. Upon returning to India, he became the architect of the department of sociology at the University of Kerala, where he served as head for an impressive 21 years. During this tenure, he not only shaped the curriculum but also mentored countless students, fostering a new generation of sociologists.
Founding Institutions and Pioneering Centers
His leadership extended beyond the classroom. Nayar founded the Kerala Sociological Society, creating a platform for scholarly exchange. In 1983, he established India's first UGC-backed Centre for Women's Studies, a groundbreaking initiative that paved the way for gender studies across the country. This was followed by the establishment of the Centre for Gerontological Studies, highlighting his commitment to addressing aging-related issues. His book, 'Sociology in India: Problems and Promises', is widely regarded as a pioneering work that critically examined the discipline's evolution in the Indian context.
National and International Recognition
Nayar's influence reached national and international levels. He served as the president of the Indian Sociological Society in 2007, guiding the organization through significant developments. Additionally, he worked as a consultant for prestigious global bodies, including the World Bank, WHO, and International Labour Organization, where his expertise in social welfare and development was highly valued.
Honors and the Innovative 'Age Friendly Grama Panchayat' Project
In recognition of his lifelong dedication to social welfare, Nayar was honored by the President of India in 2014 with the Vayoshreshtha Samman, a lifetime achievement award. This accolade particularly acknowledged his innovative 'age friendly grama panchayat' project, which aimed to create supportive environments for the elderly in rural areas, demonstrating his practical approach to gerontology.
Personal Life and Funeral Arrangements
Nayar was predeceased by his wife, K Indira Devi. He is survived by his daughters, Shobha B Nair and Sheela B Nayar. His mortal remains will be kept for public homage at his residence in Kochulloor from 8 am to 2 pm on Friday. The cremation is scheduled to take place in Ernakulam on Saturday, allowing friends, family, and admirers to pay their final respects.
The passing of P K B Nayar is a significant loss to the fields of sociology, gerontology, and women's studies. His pioneering work, institutional foundations, and unwavering commitment to social welfare will continue to inspire future generations, ensuring his legacy endures in academic and community spheres alike.
