Dec 26,2024: MT Vasudevan Nair, one of Malayalam literature’s most revered and celebrated writers, passed away in Kozhikode on December 25, at the age of 91. Known fondly as MT, Vasudevan Nair left an indelible and deeply profound mark on the world of Malayalam literature and cinema, earning accolades for his eloquent storytelling, poignant narratives, and deep understanding of the human condition.
Born on July 15, 1933, in the village of Kudallur in Kerala’s Palakkad district, MT’s literary works—often drawing from the rich landscapes of rural Kerala—touched upon themes of love, struggle, social change, and the complexities of human relationships. His writings, which spanned novels, short stories, plays, and screenplays, brought to life unforgettable characters and narratives that resonated deeply with generations of readers.
Some of the literary giant’s most celebrated works include his debut novel Naalukettu (Ancestral Home), which he wrote at the age of 23, winning him his first Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award; Manju (Mist); Kaalam (Time); Asuravithu (The Prodigal Son); and Randamoozham (The Second Turn). A lot of his fiction was set against the social backdrop of the matrilineal Nair tharavaadu (ancestral homes) in Kerala. His novels and stories were known for their empathy, lyricism, and the ability to weave intricate human emotions within complex social contexts. Randamoozham, a retelling of the Hindu epic Mahabharata from Bhima’s perspective, remains one of the most groundbreaking works in Malayalam literature, offering a new lens to view upon the literary work and reshaping the discourse around it.
In addition to his literary prowess, MT’s contributions to Malayalam cinema were also monumental. He played an instrumental role in the creation of many iconic films, both as a screenwriter and director. His collaboration with acclaimed filmmakers such as P Bhaskaran, A Vincent, KS Sethumadhavan, IV Sasi, Bharathan, Hariharan and Sibi Malayil defined an era of Malayalam cinema that was rich in intellectual creativity and thought-provoking social criticism. His partnership with legendary director Hariharan in particular paved the way to masterpieces such as Panchagni (1986), Nakhakshathangal (1986), Abhayam Thedi (1986), Amrutham Gamaya (1987), Aranyakam (1988), Oru Vadakkan Veeragadha (1989), Parinayam (1994), and Ennu Swantham Janakikutty (1998)—films still remembered by the Malayali audience for their narrative depth.
MT has also donned the cap of a director multiple times, helming much-celebrated films such as Nirmalyam (1973), Bandhanam (1978), Manju (1983) and Oru Cheru Punchiri (2000)—many of them adapted from his own classic literary works.
As significant as his literary and cinematic contributions is his legacy as a political and cultural commentator. Seamlessly intertwining art with political critique, MT’s voice resonated far beyond the realms of fiction, making him one of the most influential cultural figures in modern Kerala. His works, both in literature and cinema, were deeply reflective of the social and political realities of his time.
He was a keen observer and critic of Kerala’s evolving political climate, known for his engagement with contemporary issues, whether through interviews, essays, or public speeches.
Many prominent young writers of Malayalam literature would also recall him as a top-notch literary editor, spotting new talent and giving them the right nudge to blossom in their field.
Throughout his life, MT received numerous accolades, including the Jnanpith Award, the highest honour for a writer in India, which he was awarded in 1995 for his immense contribution to Malayalam literature. He has also received the Kendra Sahitya Academy Award in 1970 for his novel Kaalam; the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award in the years 1958, 1982, and 1986; India’s third highest civilian honour Padma Bhushan in 2005; multiple national and Kerala state film awards as a director and screenplay writer; and several other honours for his multifaceted contributions to the world of art and culture.
