Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala announced the winner of its prestigious literary award Ezhuthachan Puraskaram for 2024 on Friday, naming eminent Malayalam writer NS Madhavan. The award was in recognition of his overall contribution to the Malayalam language and literature, PTI reported.
Minister for Culture in Kerala, Saji Cherian, announced the winner. Cherian said that Madhavan is a writer who meticulously crafts style and plot, turning life's realities into profound literary works through his creative genius.
"His works stand out for their exploration of politics, human relationships, and the unique beauty of local settings," Cherian shared in a Facebook post.
He said that Madhavan's influence on the Malayalam short story genre is unparalleled. Known for his vibrant, straightforward and incisive language, he captures the vastness of human experience on a local canvas without resorting to complex styles or abstract ideas, the minister said in his post.
Stories like 'Thiruth' have brought a unique ideological depth to Malayalam literature, while his debut work, 'Shishu', set the tone for the imaginative growth of the Malayalam short story, he said.
Through his works, Madhavan delves into the complex struggles of modern society and the dilemmas faced by marginalised communities, the minister added.
"It is a great joy and pride to present this award to N S Madhavan, one of Malayalam literature's most prolific writers," Cherian said.
Seventy-six-year-old Madhavan's major works include Higuita, Thiruth, Chulaimedile Shavangal, Pancha Kanyakakal, and Lanthan Batheriyile Luthiniyakal.
The jury, chaired by SK Vasanthan and including members Dr TK Narayanan and Dr Muse Mary George, along with Kerala Sahitya Akademi Secretary CP Aboobacker, selected the award winner.
The Ezhuthachan Award is the highest literary honour given by the state government. The award consists of a cash prize worth Rs 5,00,000, a citation, and a plaque.