*all images are the property of the Madhavan Nayar Foundation
Madhavan
Nayar
DOCUMENTING
LIFE & LEGACY
The project focused on the research, documentation, and preservation of the life and legacy of R. Madhavan Nayar—a visionary entrepreneur and devoted patron of the arts. From pioneering frozen shrimp trade in Cochin’s fisheries industry to establishing top-ranked epilepsy care centre, his contributions spanned diverse fields like education, recreation, sports, trade, and arts.
His enduring passion was the arts, exemplified by the founding of the Kerala Museum in 1987. The museum stands as a cultural landmark, housing:
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A History Museum with dioramas of Kerala’s past.
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A Visual Art Collection showcasing works from the late 19th to 20th century.
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A Doll Collection representing India’s cultural diversity.
The project relied on interviews, institutional records, and archival materials to piece together his vision for Kochi. His legacy as a mentor, philanthropist, and cultural pioneer continues to inspire generations.