Kerala Minister Promises a Grand Tribute for M.T. Vasudevan Nair

Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 1 (NationPress) The Kerala Minister for Culture and Cinema, Saji Cherian, has declared that the state government plans to pay a grand tribute to the renowned literary genius M.T. Vasudevan Nair.

Commonly referred to as MT, Vasudevan Nair was an esteemed author, screenwriter, and filmmaker, whose impact on Malayalam literature and cinema remains unparalleled.

The 91-year-old Jnanpith awardee passed away last week, receiving a state funeral.

He succumbed to age-related health issues at a hospital in Kozhikode, where he had resided for several decades.

In a statement to IANS, Cherian emphasized that the state government intends to create a tribute that ensures MT's legacy is forever celebrated for his remarkable contributions to the Malayalam language, leaving no room for doubt.

“We have several plans in mind, aiming for something that transcends a mere brick-and-mortar memorial. His vast contributions across various fields will be highlighted, ensuring it stands the test of time,” Cherian noted.

“The initial phase of our initiative will be included in the upcoming state budget for the fiscal year 2025-26, which the Finance Minister will present in the Assembly. From there, we plan to advance our efforts and engage with many stakeholders on the best ways to honor MT,” added Cherian, who is a first-time state minister at 59.

Cherian fondly reminisced about his nearly hour-long conversation with MT soon after he assumed office in 2021, expressing deep admiration. “Our discussions were extensive, primarily focused on films, which is my portfolio as well. I had additional meetings with him, particularly following the government's decision to celebrate his 90th birthday. Last year, we even produced a docu-drama about his life, starting from his childhood,” he recalled.

MT, a recipient of the Padma Bhushan award, enjoyed a distinguished career in Malayalam cinema, directing seven films and writing screenplays for around 54 productions. His screenplays, now published as books, are invaluable resources for aspiring filmmakers.

In literature, MT attained every prestigious accolade a Malayalam writer could hope for. He penned nine novels, 19 short story collections, and numerous essays and memoirs, with his iconic works serving as a rich repository of Malayalam literature.

Born in 1933 in Kudallur, Palakkad district, MT's career commenced as a teacher and a 'gramasevakan' at a block development office in Taliparamba, Kannur. He later ventured into journalism, joining Mathrubhumi Weekly as a sub-editor in 1957, eventually serving as its editor for a brief period.

This literary luminary was also a significant figure in Malayalam cinema, forming a legendary trio with director Hariharan and actor Mammootty.

Despite his immense public recognition, MT remained steadfast to his principles, explicitly expressing a desire for his body not to be displayed for public viewing.

MT was married twice; his first union was with Prameela, with whom he had a daughter. He later married Kalamandalam Saraswathy, a celebrated danseuse, and they had a daughter together.