Writers take objections to LDF Govt’s promotional logo on Kerala Sahitya Akademi books

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Sahitya Akademi, the state academy of letters in Kerala, has found itself embroiled in a heated controversy after using a logo celebrating the second anniversary of the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government on the covers of some of its published books.

This move has sparked outrage among writers and poets in the state, who consider it an unwelcome intrusion of political advertisement on a cultural product.

The logo, featuring the tagline "Kaikal cherthu karuthode" (Joining hands with strength) and commemorating the second year of the LDF government led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, appeared prominently on the top right-hand corner of the books.

Writers expressed their displeasure, arguing that political branding had no place on literary works. Poet and Akademi chairman K Satchidanandan proposed that if the books were intended to mark the government's second anniversary, such information could have been presented on the second page or during their release.

Akademi secretary CP Aboobacker explained that the logo was placed on books released during a special occasion to distinguish them from other publications. However, many writers and critics condemned this use of a political emblem, considering it inappropriate and an affront to the sanctity of literature.

They took to social media to voice their objections, asserting that no book should bear the advertisement of a government, and calling for the cancellation and withdrawal of publication contracts that allowed government advertisements on book covers.

Aboobacker defended the Akademi's actions, stating that similar emblems were often added to books published on special occasions by various publishers. He expressed confusion over the extent of the controversy, emphasizing that there was no intention to insult authors or poets. Nonetheless, he apologized to any writers who felt aggrieved by the matter.