Former principal of Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda College, P. Natarajan (7 September 1942 – 28 May 2025) passed away recently. He was 83.
Fondly known as PNat (Peanut) by generations of students and colleagues, he was born in Pudukkottai.
He completed his schooling at Kulapathi Balaiah School, earned a B.Com from H.H. The Raja’s College, Pudukkottai, an M.Com from Annamalai University, and an M.Phil from Madras University.
He began his distinguished teaching journey in 1964 as assistant professor in the department of commerce at Vivekananda College, Mylapore where he rose to become head of department and later, the college principal.
He later served as principal at T. S. Narayanaswamy College managed by the India Cements Group, before taking voluntary retirement to pursue his love for travel and family.
Known for his witty and engaging teaching style, Natarajan had a remarkable ability to simplify complex concepts and connect with every student — often using jokes, personal anecdotes, and his distinctive speech style to make learning memorable, his family said.
With his command of English, strong personal values, and lifelong dedication to education, he mentored thousands of students, many of whom went on to become chartered accountants, educators and industrialists across India.
Social media was flooded with tributes and anecdotes on the professor the moment news of his passing was shared.
He is survived by two sons and a daughter.
The family can be reached at 9840983984.
