Malayalam writer, filmmaker MT Vasudevan Nair passes away at 91

Born in Kerala’s Kudallur in 1933, MT’s works captured the ethos of Malayali society, often weaving intricate tales of human relationships, cultural dilemmas, and existential struggles of post-independence Kerala.

Over a remarkable career spanning more than seven decades, MT authored nine novels (one co-written with his friend and fellow writer NP Muhammad), 19 short story collections, over 50 film scripts, six directorial ventures, three travelogues, a play, and numerous essays and memoirs.

Dr Shankar Dayal Sharma giving an award to MT Vasudevan Nair for the best screen play (Express archive photo)

His magnum opus Randamoozham (The Second Turn), a retelling of the Mahabharata through the eyes of Bhima, is a monument to his mastery of reimagining traditional stories with unparalleled depth and sensitivity.

At the mere age of 20, he won the prize for the best short story in Malayalam at the World Short Story Competition conducted by The New York Herald Tribune.

His novels on living in a matrilineal family in Kerala include Naalukettu–for which he’d won the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award at just 25– Kaalam, and Asuravithu, which continue to resonate deeply with readers worldwide.

As a screenwriter and director, MT elevated Malayalam cinema with masterpieces such as Nirmalyam, Oru Vadakkan Veeragadha, and Kadavu, blending literary finesse with visual storytelling. His contributions earned him numerous accolades, including the Jnanpith Award, India’s highest literary honour, as well as National Film Awards and the Kendra Sahitya Akademi Award.

Beyond his literary and cinematic achievements, MT was a mentor, guiding aspiring writers and filmmakers with his unparalleled insight and compassion.