fall occurred. However, the reason for the suicide is still unknown as it is reported that the doctor had no known enemies and had gone through the daily routine, on the day of his death, with no apparent deviations. No one's presence was also reported at the terrace and the Police closed the matter as a case of suicide. Legacy It is reported that Thayil would refuse doctor's fees if he found that the patient came from a poor background. He is remembered by many as one of the old school medical doctors who always maintained a personal relationship with their patients. Awards and recognitions Padma Bhushan - Government of India - 1992 Padma Shri - Government of India - 1972 Fellow of the American College of Surgeons Other than the above honours, he was also given an emerald studded ring by Sathya Sai Baba. References External links Padma Shri Award Directory (up to 2007) 1920 births 2006 deaths Recipients of the Padma Bhushan in medicine People from Kollam district Indian surgeons Recipients of the Padma Shri in medicine Medical doctors from Kerala 20th-century Indian medical doctors 20th-century surgeons Indian expatriates in Australia