Renowned Malayalam writer and filmmaker MT Vasudevan Nair, fondly known as MT, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 91. The literary giant breathed his last at Baby Memorial Hospital in Kozhikode after being under treatment for 11 days following a cardiac arrest. Despite initial reports of improvement on Tuesday, his condition worsened, leading to his demise on Wednesday night.
Born on July 15, 1933, in Kudallur, MT Vasudevan Nair leaves behind an unparalleled legacy in literature and cinema. Known for his evocative portrayal of nostalgia and human emotions, MT’s works spanned novels, short stories, screenplays, children’s literature, travel writing, and essays.
MT penned iconic works such as Nirmalyam, a poignant classic in Malayalam cinema, and directed six films and two documentaries. His contributions to screenwriting were unparalleled, earning him four National Awards and 11 Kerala State Awards.
As an author, his novels and short stories have captivated readers, blending rich cultural ethos with lyrical storytelling. His first story collection, Raktham Puranda Mantharikal (Blood-Stained Grains of Sand), was published while he was still a student. Over his illustrious career, MT received numerous accolades, including, Padma Bhushan (2005), Jnanpith Award, Ezhuthachan Puraskaram, Vayalar Award, Kendra Sahitya Akademi Award, Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award, Vallathol Puraskaram,
JC Daniel Puraskaram.
MT was born in Kudallur, a village on the banks of the Bharathapuzha River, then part of Malappuram’s Ponnanni taluk and later under Pattambi taluk in Palakkad. He studied at Mamakkavu Elementary School, Kumaranellur High School, and Victoria College in Palakkad. During his school years, MT was greatly influenced by his elder brother, MT Narayanan Nair, and his senior, poet Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri. Initially a poet, MT transitioned to prose during his college years, immersing himself in reading and writing.
MT Vasudevan Nair’s passing marks the end of an era for Malayalam literature and cinema. His works remain a testament to his extraordinary talent, weaving timeless tales of human emotion and cultural heritage.