Science writer J R Lakshmana Rao passed away in Mysuru, on Friday morning. He was 97 years old.
Rao had retired as the head of the chemistry department of the University of Mysore.
He has published over 30 books on science and was the recipient of Rajyotsava award in 2016.
Rao was born on January 21, 1921 in Jagalur, Davanagere. His father was Raghvendra Rao and mother Nagamma.
After his initial schooling in Davanagere, he graduated (BSc. and MSc.) from Yuvaraja Science College, Mysuru.
He served at Tumakuru Intermediate College, Bengaluru Central College, Shivamogga's Sahyadri College, Mysuru Maharaja College and Yuvaraja College as professor.
He also served as the chief lexicographer for the English-Kannada dictionary published by the Prasaranga (publication division) of the University of Mysore.
Alongside science lectures he wrote books on science.
'Aahara'; 'Paramanu Charithre'; 'Galelio'; 'Vignana Vichara'; 'Louis Pasteur' and 'Vignanigalodane Rasanimishigalu' are some of his well-known works.
He leaves behind three daughters and a son.