Wed Dec 25 20:52:02 UTC 2024: ## Eminent Malayalam Writer and Filmmaker M.T. Vasudevan Nair Passes Away at 91
**Kozhikode, Kerala, December 26, 2024** – Renowned Malayalam writer and filmmaker M.T. Vasudevan Nair passed away on December 25th at Baby Memorial Hospital in Kozhikode, Kerala. He was 91. His death followed a period of illness, with increasing respiratory issues and congestion leading to his hospitalization on December 16th.
The Kerala government has declared two days of state mourning (December 26th and 27th) to honor the literary giant. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has postponed all government programs, including a scheduled cabinet meeting, as a mark of respect. A private funeral will be held at Mavur public crematorium on December 26th at 5 PM, per the writer’s wishes. A public viewing will not be held.
M.T. Vasudevan Nair, popularly known as M.T., left an indelible mark on Malayalam literature and cinema. His prolific career spanned novels, short stories, screenplays, plays, children’s literature, travelogues, and essays. He was also a highly influential editor. He directed six feature films, including the critically acclaimed *Nirmalyam*, and two documentaries.
His contributions earned him numerous prestigious awards, including the Padma Bhushan (2005), Jnanpith Award, Ezhuthachan Puraskaram, Vayalar Award, and numerous state and national film awards. He won four National Film Awards for best screenplay and eleven Kerala State Film Awards. He also received three Kerala State Film Awards for Best Director.
Born in 1933 in Ponnani, Kerala, M.T. began writing in school. His early career included teaching and social work, before he joined *Mathrubhumi* weekly in 1957, significantly shaping Malayalam literary journalism. He nurtured many prominent writers, publishing their works and providing crucial support. His first novel, *Nalukettu*, won the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award. He wrote screenplays for over fifty films, many of which were both critically and commercially successful.
Among his most significant works are the novels *Kaalam*, *Nalukettu*, *Asuravithu*, *Randamoozham*, *Manj*, *Paathiravum Pakalvelliyum*, and *Vanaprastham*, and short story collections *Ninne Ormakku* and *Olavum Theeravum*.
He is survived by his wife, Kalamandalam Saraswati, and daughters, Sithara and Ashwati. His legacy as one of the most important figures in Malayalam literature and cinema will continue to inspire generations to come.
First Piper 