Prime Minister, Narendra Modi offered his condolences over the passing away of noted Ayurvedic physician, Dr. PK Warrier. In a tweet, the Prime Minister said, "Saddened by the passing away of Dr. PK Warrier. His contributions to popularise Ayurveda will always be remembered. Condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti."Dr Warrier breathed his last around noon. The country had honoured him with the Padma Shree in 1999 and Padma Bhushan in 2010.A prominent physician and a visionary who popularised the classical and authentic Ayurveda treatment across the world, Dr Warrier's birth centenary celebrations were held on June 8. The renowned Arya Vaidya Sala in Kottakkal near here and the Ayurveda Medical college flourished and became synonymous with Ayurveda after Dr Warrier took over the reins of the institution decades ago. Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, Chief Minister Pinararyi Vijayan and Speaker of the Legislative Assembly M B Rajesh condoled the death of the "patriarch" of Ayurvedic medicine.
The Governor said, "As a physician, he was committed to the scientific pursuit of Ayurveda. He will be remembered for his matchless contribution to the modernisation of Ayurveda. As a humanist, he envisioned a life of good health and dignity for everyone in society."Mr Vijayan, in his message, said Warrier was instrumental in leading Ayurveda to global fame and it was due to his efforts that this field of medicine has gained international acceptance today. Assembly Speaker M B Rajesh, condoling Warrier's death, said that he made great contributions to Ayurvedic treatment in Kerala and was instrumental in making Ayurveda a therapeutic discipline and giving it a strong place in modern education. Health Minister Veena George, in her message, said, "We have lost the patriarch of Ayurveda". Born to Sreedharan Namboodiri and Panniyampilly Kunhi Warrisyar on June 5, 1921, Panniyampilly Krishnankutty Warrier (PK Warrier) did his schooling in Kottakkal and joined KAS at the age of 20.However, he was attracted to the freedom struggle during the Quit India movement and abandoned Ayurveda studies under the tutelage of his uncle and founder of KAS Vaidyaratnam P S Warrier. Soon after completion of his studies, he joined the KAS as a trustee at the age of 24. Dr Warrier’s mortal remains have been kept at the Kailasa Mandiram in Kottakkal for the public to pay homage. He will be cremated Saturday evening at the family crematorium in Kottakkal.