Thu Dec 26 13:32:06 UTC 2024: ## Malayalam Literary Giant M.T. Vasudevan Nair Passes Away
**Kozhikode, Kerala:** Renowned Malayalam writer and screenwriter M.T. Vasudevan Nair passed away last night at the age of 90. He breathed his last at Baby Memorial Hospital in Kozhikode at around 10 pm after his kidney and heart functions deteriorated. He had been admitted to the hospital on December 15th due to respiratory issues, followed by a heart attack. While his condition had shown little improvement in the past four days, he was reportedly able to breathe without ventilator support.
Nair’s death has plunged Kerala into mourning. The state government has declared two days of state mourning (December 26th and 27th), canceling all official programs, including today’s scheduled cabinet meeting. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed deep sorrow, stating that Nair’s passing represents an irreplaceable loss, having elevated Malayalam literature to the global stage.
His funeral, held with full state honours, commenced at his residence, ‘Sithara’, at 3:30 pm today and concluded at 4:00 pm. The cremation took place at Mavur Road’s Smrithi Path at 5:00 pm. Thousands of mourners, including prominent figures from all walks of life, paid their respects.
Actor Mohanlal, who shared a close personal and professional relationship with Nair, visited ‘Sithara’ early this morning and offered condolences. He described Nair as the person who gave him his best roles, highlighting their strong bond and recalling Nair’s visits to Mumbai to watch his plays. Mohanlal also mentioned calling the hospital for updates on Nair’s health. He said, “India has lost one of its greatest writers.”
M.T. Vasudevan Nair’s literary contributions are immeasurable, leaving behind a rich legacy of novels, short stories, and screenplays that have significantly impacted Malayalam and Indian cinema. His final film, “Olaavum Theeravum,” was released recently. The loss is deeply felt across Kerala and the wider literary world.
First Piper 