MT Vasudevan Nair, Beloved Storyteller of Modern Kerala, Passes Away at 91
Kozhikode: Legendary writer MT Vasudevan Nair, often regarded as one of Kerala’s finest storytellers, passed away at a private hospital in Kozhikode at the age of 91. His final rites will be held with official honors at Mavoor Road Crematorium after a private farewell at his residence, Sithara, on Kottaram Road, from 4 PM. As per his wishes, there will be no public viewing.
Born in 1933 in Kudallur, Palakkad, as the youngest son of T. Narayanan Nair and Ammalu Amma, MT’s journey took him from roles as a teacher and editor to establishing an indelible legacy in Malayalam literature and cinema. Over his illustrious career, he received numerous prestigious awards, including the Padma Bhushan, Jnanpith, Ezhuthachan Puraskaram, J.C. Daniel Award, and Kerala Jyothi Award.
MT’s literary journey began during his school days, with his works first published in Jayakeralam magazine. While studying at Victoria College, Palakkad, he published his first story collection, Raktham Puranda Mantharikal. His story Valarthumrigangal won first prize in a competition held by Mathrubhumi, firmly establishing his place in Malayalam literature.
His debut novel, Pathiravum Pakalvelichavum, and his first published novel, Nalukettu, earned him a Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award. Other celebrated works, including Swargam Thurakkunna Samayam, Gopura Nadayil, Manju, Kalam, Vilapam, Randamoozham, and Varanasi, also received critical acclaim.
MT transitioned to cinema with the script for the film Murappennu (1963-64). His directorial debut, Nirmalyam (1973), won the President’s Gold Medal. With over 50 scripts, including Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha, Kadav, Sadayam, and Parinayam, MT won four National Awards for screenwriting.
MT Vasudevan Nair’s literary and cinematic contributions remain monumental, inspiring generations and shaping the cultural landscape of Kerala. His loss marks the end of an era in Malayalam literature and cinema.
