Dharwad: Former Mangalore University Vice-Chancellor M.I. Savadatti died here on Wednesday following a massive cardiac attack. He was 89.

According to family sources, he died owing to a massive cardiac arrest at home. He is survived by two sons and a daughter.

Recipient of several awards including Sir M. Visvesvaraya Lifetime Achievement Award, Prof. Savadatti served as the VC of Mangalore University for two terms. He was a member of the University Grants Commission (UGC) and Founder-Vice-Chairman of Karnataka State Higher Education Council.

Born on Jan. 8, 1932, at Aminbhavi in Dharwad, he studied at Karnatak University and subsequently taught Physics in the same University where he was instrumental in establishing the advanced laser laboratory. He has made significant contribution towards popularisation of science.