KR Narayanan was born at Uzhavoor in Kottayam District, Kerala on October 2, 1920. He had his early schooling at Uzhavoor primary and middle schools and Kuravilangad English High School. He joined for the intermediate course at CMS College, Kottayam on a merit scholarship. He finished the BA (honours) Degree in the first division from the University College, Thiruvananthapuram.
He obtained his MA degree in English Literature by securing the first rank from the University. After the completion of his studies at Thiruvananthapuram he went to London School of Economics and secured B.Sc. (Eco) degree with First Class Honours, specializing in Political Science.
He started his career by working as a lecturer in a Govt. College. Later, he joined the world of journalism through the 'Commerce and Industry' weekly at first and then with the celebrated 'The Hindu' Daily and at 'Times of India'.
In addition to her interest in landscaping, gardening, orchid cultivation, Ikebana and Bonsai, she is also a short story writer. She has translated several Burmese short stories into English. A collection of her translations of Thein Pe Myint's Burmese Short Stories was published as a book entitled 'Sweet and Sour' in December 1998. Usha Narayanan has also worked with All India Radio for many years, translating, and broadcasting news and talks for the External Services of All India Radio.
