Legendary Malayalam Author MT Vasudevan Nair Passes Away at 91
Renowned Malayalam writer MT Vasudevan Nair dies at 91, leaving a legacy in literature, cinema
Legendary Malayalam writer MT Vasudevan Nair, renowned for transforming literature and cinema, passes away at 91
Renowned writer, filmmaker, and Jnanpith Awardee MT Vasudevan Nair, affectionately known as MT, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 91. He breathed his last at a private hospital in Kozhikode, Kerala. A literary giant, MT leaves behind a legacy that shaped Malayalam literature and cinema.
The Kerala government has declared official mourning on December 26 and 27 to honor MT Vasudevan Nair. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced the postponement of all government events, including a Cabinet meeting, as a mark of respect.
Early Life and Literary Journey
Born in 1933 in Kudallur, a small village in Kerala’s Palakkad district, MT’s journey into the literary world began early. At the age of 20, he won a prestigious short story competition conducted by The New York Herald Tribune. His first major novel, Naalukettu (Ancestral Home), won the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award in 1958, setting the stage for an illustrious career.
MT’s works often revolved around Kerala’s traditional family structures and culture. His novels, such as Manju (Mist), Kaalam (Time), and Asuravithu (The Prodigal Son), are considered milestones in Malayalam literature. Renowned as a literary classic, his masterwork Randamoozham (The Second Turn) recounts the Mahabharata from Bhima’s point of view.
Contributions to Cinema
MT was equally influential in the world of cinema, writing screenplays for 54 films and directing seven. He won the National Film Award for Best Screenplay four times, a record in the category. His notable films include Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha, Kadavu, Sadayam, and Parinayam.
Accolades and Recognition
MT received the Jnanpith Award in 1995 for his overall contributions to Malayalam literature. In 2005, he was honored with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award. Over his lifetime, he garnered numerous accolades, including the Kerala Jyothi Award, Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award, and the JC Daniel Award for lifetime achievement in cinema.
MT Vasudevan Nair’s profound storytelling and pioneering work have left an indelible mark on Indian literature and cinema. He will be remembered as a legend who gave a voice to Kerala’s culture and traditions.
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