About Kochu Foundation

Mission

Celebrate and commemorate the life and work of T.K. Kochunarayanan (1945-2024) by promoting and supporting initiatives in the spheres of mathematics, culture and society.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the foundation will be to:

• Advance public engagement with mathematics and science
• Develop fun-filled pathways to mathematics and science
• Support science communicators, especially in Malayalam
• Promote progressive social values

Values

The core values of the foundation shall reflect the spirit of People’s Science movements and Kochu’s own ethos:

• Rational Inquiry: Champion scientific temper & critical analysis
• Social Justice: Work towards ensuring an equitable future for everyone
• Democratic Inclusiveness: Welcome marginalized voices and diverse perspectives everywhere
• Whimsical Playfulness: Ensure we are never too serious to inhibit learning and curtail curiosity
• Boldness: Explore new ideas and innovative approaches without a crippling fear of failure

About T. K. Kochunarayanan

T.K. Kochunarayanan (1945-2024) was a writer, editor, teacher, and activist, who made prolific contributions in areas ranging from science and mathematics to literature and politics.

Driven by his intellectual curiosity, tireless work ethic and unwavering social commitment, he led a life of public engagement. With an innate sense of playfulness and irreverence to accepted norms and strictures, Kochu experimented with many ideas and projects, many of which not only broke new ground and captured new imagination, but also helped identify talent and promote newcomers in fields ranging from films and television to popular science and writing