MT Vasudevan Nair, the Genius Malayalam Story Teller

For a language that is relatively young, Malayalam has produced some of India’s greatest literature and films. Among the names associated with many of these timeless works, one stands out prominently – M.T. Vasudevan Nair. Madath Thekkepaattu Vasudevan Nair, popularly known as M.T., is an Indian author, screenplay writer, and film director. He is celebrated as a prolific and versatile writer in modern Malayalam literature, and is regarded as one of the masters of post-Independence Indian literature.

Early Life of MT Vasudevan Nair

M.T. Vasudevan Nair was born on July 15, 1933, in the small village of Kudallur in the northwestern tip of Palakkad district, Kerala. He was the youngest of four children born to T. Narayanan Nair and Ammalu Amma. He spent his early years in Kudallur and his father’s house in Punnayurkulam, a village in present-day Thrissur district. After completing his schooling at Malamakkavu Elementary School and Kumaranelloor High School, he earned a degree in chemistry from Victoria College, Palakkad in 1953.

MT Vasudevan Nair Literary Career: The Path to Greatness

MT Vasudevan Nair began writing at a young age, inspired by his elder brothers and the poet Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri. He started out writing poems, but later switched to prose. He won his first literary prize at the age of 20, while still an undergraduate in chemistry, for winning the best short story in Malayalam at the World Short Story Competition conducted by The New York Herald Tribune..

His first major novel, “Naalukettu” (The Legacy), won the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award in 1958 when he was 23 years old. This novel, along with “Asuravithu” (The Prodigal Son) and “Kaalam” (Time), explored the deep emotional experiences of his early days and focused on the basic Malayalam family structure and culture. These works were considered groundbreaking in the history of Malayalam literature. While Vasudevan Nair has written many acclaimed works, his masterpiece is considered to be “Randamoozham” (The Second Turn). This novel retells the story of the Mahabharata from the perspective of Bhimasena, and demonstrates Nair’s exceptional storytelling abilities.

MT Vasudevan Nair Literary Works: A Master of Short Stories and Novels

MT Vasudevan Nair’s literary contributions are wide-ranging, encompassing short stories, novels, plays, and more. He explored a broad spectrum of themes, settings, and characters, making his work highly relatable and engaging for readers. Some of his notable literary works include:

MT Vasudevan Nair Novels:

1. “Naalukettu” (The Legacy): A depiction of the situation in a typical joint family experiencing a steady decline in fortunes.
2. “Asuravithu” (The Demon Seed): Explores themes of moral degradation and societal issues.
3. “Manju” (Mist): Characterized by profuse lyricism, this novel delves into eco-feminist themes of patriarchal domination.
4. “Kaalam” (Time): Another lyrically rich work by MT Vasudevan Nair, this novel explores the complexity of time and relationships.
5. “Randamoozham” (The Second Turn): A modern reimagining of the Mahabharatha, told from Bhimasena’s perspective.

MT Vasudevan Nair Short Stories:

MT’s short stories are equally captivating and have earned him several accolades. Some of his celebrated collections include:

1. “Iruttinte Athmavu” (“Soul of Darkness”): A heart-wrenching tale that uncovers the insanity hidden behind seemingly civilised societal norms.
2. “Sherlock”: A story that contrasts rural life in Kerala with the sophisticated world of Indian immigrants in the US.
3. “Kurukkante Kalyanam” (“The Jackal’s Wedding”) and “Pallivalum Kalchilambum” (“Sacred Sword and Anklets”): Stories that shed light on the cruelty and privations endured by those in rural settings.
4. “Vanaprastham”: Explores the delicately balanced relationship between a teacher and a student.

MT Vasudevan Nair believes that the short story genre allows a writer to achieve near perfection, and his stories indeed showcase his mastery of this form of storytelling.

Film Career: A Visionary Filmmaker

Apart from his exceptional literary contributions, MT Vasudevan Nair is also renowned for his involvement in Malayalam cinema. He has directed seven films and written the screenplay for around 54 films. He has been recognized with multiple National Film Awards for his outstanding screenplays, including “Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha,” “Kadavu,” “Sadayam,” and “Parinayam.”

Awards and Honors Received by MT Vasudevan Nair

MT Vasudevan Nair’s literary prowess and contributions have earned him numerous awards and honors. Some of the notable ones include:

• Jnanpith Award: India’s highest literary award, conferred upon MT in recognition of his exceptional contributions to Malayalam literature.
• Kerala Sahitya Akademi Awards: Multiple awards for his novels and short stories, including the prestigious award for “Naalukettu.”
• National Film Awards: Recognized for his exceptional screenplays in various films.
• Padmarajan Award, Vayalar Award, Vallathol Award, Mathrubhumi Literary Award, and many more.

M.T. Vasudevan Nair’s literary genius and storytelling brilliance have left an indelible mark on Malayalam literature and cinema. His ability to portray human emotions and societal complexities in a relatable manner has endeared him to readers and viewers alike. From his early days as a young writer to his acclaimed status as a Jnanpith Award recipient, MT Vasudevan Nair’s journey is one of inspiration and literary excellence.

National Film Awards Recieved by MT 

The National Film Awards are one of the most prestigious awards in the Indian film industry, presented annually by the Government of India. They aim to honor and recognize outstanding contributions to Indian cinema across various categories. Over the years, several Malayalam films and filmmakers have been honored with these prestigious awards. Let’s take a closer look at some of the National Film Awards won by films associated with MT Vasudevan Nair:

1. 1973: Best Film – Nirmalyam

• “Nirmalyam” is a Malayalam film released in 1973, directed by M.T. Vasudevan Nair.
• The film explores the life of an impoverished temple musician and how he copes with the changes brought about by modernity.
• It received the National Film Award for Best Feature Film, recognizing its excellence in filmmaking and storytelling.

2. 1989: Best Screenplay – Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha

• “Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha” is a critically acclaimed Malayalam film released in 1989, directed by T. Hariharan.
• The film is based on a historical legend and showcases the life of the legendary warrior Chandu.
• M.T. Vasudevan Nair’s exceptional screenplay for the film earned him the National Film Award for Best Screenplay.

3. 1991: Best Screenplay – Kadavu

• “Kadavu” is a Malayalam film released in 1991, directed by Jayaraj.
• The film tells the story of an elderly couple and their struggles to retain their ancestral house.
• M.T. Vasudevan Nair’s screenplay for the film was highly acclaimed, and he was awarded the National Film Award for Best Screenplay.

4. 1991: Best Feature Film in Malayalam – Kadavu

• “Kadavu” also received the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam, recognizing its overall excellence as a film in the Malayalam language.

5. 1992: Best Screenplay – Sadayam

• “Sadayam” is a Malayalam film released in 1992, directed by Balachandra Menon.
• The film revolves around the theme of capital punishment and the emotional turmoil faced by those involved in the process.
• M.T. Vasudevan Nair’s powerful screenplay earned him another National Film Award for Best Screenplay.

6. 1994: Best Screenplay – Parinayam

• “Parinayam” is a Malayalam film released in 1994, directed by Hariharan.
• The film is a historical drama set in the backdrop of 18th-century Kerala.
• M.T. Vasudevan Nair’s screenplay for the film was widely appreciated and earned him the National Film Award for Best Screenplay.

7. 2000: Best Film on Environment Conservation/Preservation – Oru Cheru Punchiri

• “Oru Cheru Punchiri” is a Malayalam film released in 2000, directed by M.T. Vasudevan Nair himself.
• The film highlights the importance of preserving nature and the adverse effects of deforestation.
• It received the National Film Award for Best Film on Environment Conservation/Preservation, acknowledging its significant contribution in promoting environmental awareness.

These National Film Awards are a testament to the remarkable storytelling abilities and cinematic brilliance of MT Vasudevan Nair. His contributions to both literature and cinema have earned him widespread acclaim and respect, solidifying his position as one of the most influential figures in Indian artistic circles.

Kerala State Film Awards: Celebrating Excellence in Malayalam Cinema

The Kerala State Film Awards are one of the most coveted honors in the Malayalam film industry. These awards are given annually by the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy to recognize outstanding achievements in various aspects of filmmaking. Over the years, many films associated with MT Vasudevan Nair have been honored with these prestigious awards. Let’s take a closer look at the Kerala State Film Awards won by films and screenplays associated with the acclaimed writer:

1. 1970: Best Screenplay – Olavum Theeravum

• “Olavum Theeravum” is a Malayalam film released in 1970, directed by P. N. Menon.
• The film explores the complex relationship between a doctor and a prostitute during a cholera outbreak.
• MT Vasudevan Nair’s screenplay for the film was highly acclaimed, earning him the Kerala State Film Award for Best Screenplay.

2. 1973: Best Film – Nirmalayam

• “Nirmalayam” was honored with the Kerala State Film Award for Best Film in 1973, recognizing its exceptional cinematic brilliance and storytelling.

3. 1973: Best Director – Nirmalayam

• P. A. Backer, the director of “Nirmalayam,” received the Kerala State Film Award for Best Director for his skillful direction of the film.

4. 1973: Best Screenplay – Nirmalayam

• Once again, MT Vasudevan Nair’s screenplay for “Nirmalayam” was lauded, and he was honored with the Kerala State Film Award for Best Screenplay.

5. 1978: Best Film – Bandhanam

• “Bandhanam” is a Malayalam film released in 1978, directed by M. Krishnan Nair.
• The film explores the social issues faced by a young woman who is forced into an arranged marriage.
• It received the Kerala State Film Award for Best Film, acknowledging its engaging narrative and impactful storytelling.

6. 1980: Best Story – Oppol

• “Oppol” is a Malayalam film released in 1980, directed by K. S. Sethumadhavan.
• The film tells the story of a young girl who is caught in a web of societal norms and expectations.
• MT Vasudevan Nair’s compelling story earned him the Kerala State Film Award for Best Story.

7. 1981: Best Screenplay – Thrishna, Valarthu Mrigangal

• MT Vasudevan Nair’s screenplay for the films “Thrishna” and “Valarthu Mrigangal” was honored with the Kerala State Film Award for Best Screenplay in 1981.

8. 1983: Best Story – Aaroodam

• “Aaroodam” is a Malayalam film released in 1983, directed by I. V. Sasi.
• The film delves into the life of a theater actor and the challenges he faces.
• MT Vasudevan Nair’s story for the film was recognized with the Kerala State Film Award for Best Story.

9. 1985: Best Story – Anubandham

• “Anubandham” is a Malayalam film released in 1985, directed by I. V. Sasi.
• The film revolves around the emotional bond between two women from different social backgrounds.
• MT Vasudevan Nair’s touching story earned him the Kerala State Film Award for Best Story.

10. 1986: Best Screenplay – Panchagni, Nakhakshathangal

• MT Vasudevan Nair’s screenplays for the films “Panchagni” and “Nakhakshathangal” were recognized with the Kerala State Film Award for Best Screenplay in 1986.

11. 1987: Best Screenplay – Amrutham Gamaya

• “Amrutham Gamaya” is a Malayalam film released in 1987, directed by Hariharan.
• The film is a reflection on the philosophical and emotional journey of its protagonist.
• MT Vasudevan Nair’s screenplay for the film was highly appreciated and received the Kerala State Film Award for Best Screenplay.

12. 1989: Best Screenplay – Oru Vadakkan Veeragadha

• Once again, MT Vasudevan Nair’s screenplay for “Oru Vadakkan Veeragadha” was honored, and he received the Kerala State Film Award for Best Screenplay.

13. 1990: Best Screenplay – Perumthachan

• “Perumthachan” is a Malayalam film released in 1990, directed by Ajayan.
• The film revolves around the life of a legendary carpenter and his tragic fate.
• MT Vasudevan Nair’s screenplay for the film was acclaimed, earning him the Kerala State Film Award for Best Screenplay.

14. 1991: Best Film – Kadavu

• “Kadavu” once again received recognition, this time as the Best Film at the Kerala State Film Awards.

15. 1991: Best Director – Kadavu

• The director of “Kadavu,” Jayaraj, was honored with the Kerala State Film Award for Best Director for his skillful direction of the film.

16. 1991: Best Screenplay – Kadavu

• MT Vasudevan Nair’s screenplay for “Kadavu” was once again recognized with the Kerala State Film Award for Best Screenplay.

17. 1994: Best Story – Sukrutham

• “Sukrutham” is a Malayalam film released in 1994, directed by Harikumar.
• The film revolves around the bond between a childless couple and a girl they adopt.
• MT Vasudevan Nair’s touching story earned him the Kerala State Film Award for Best Story.

18. 1994: Best Screenplay – Parinayam

• Once again, MT Vasudevan Nair’s screenplay, this time for “Parinayam,” was honored with the Kerala State Film Award for Best Screenplay.

19. 1998: Best Screenplay – Daya

• “Daya” is a Malayalam film released in 1998, directed by Venu.
• The film explores the life of an aging Kathakali artist.
• MT Vasudevan Nair’s screenplay for the film was highly acclaimed and received the Kerala State Film Award for Best Screenplay.

20. 2000: Best Director – Oru Cheru Punchiri

• MT Vasudevan Nair, who directed “Oru Cheru Punchiri,” was honored with the Kerala State Film Award for Best Director.

21. 2009: Best Screenplay – Pazhassi Raja

• “Pazhassi Raja” is a Malayalam historical film released in 2009, directed by T. Hariharan.
• The film chronicles the life of the historical figure Pazhassi Raja, a warrior prince.
• MT Vasudevan Nair’s screenplay for the film was highly appreciated and received the Kerala State Film Award for Best Screenplay.

MT Vasudevan Nair’s Literary Awards: A Trailblazing Journey in Malayalam Literature

MT Vasudevan Nair’s contributions to Malayalam literature have been nothing short of extraordinary. His literary prowess and storytelling abilities have earned him numerous prestigious awards and honors. Let’s take a look at the remarkable literary awards that have recognized MT Vasudevan Nair’s genius:

1. 1958: Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award for Novel – Naalukettu

• MT Vasudevan Nair’s novel “Naalukettu” received the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award in 1958.
• This timeless novel, which means “Ancestral Home” in English, explores the complex dynamics of a traditional Nair joint family and the changes it undergoes over time.

2. 1970: Kendra Sahitya Academy Award – Kaalam

• MT Vasudevan Nair was honored with the Kendra Sahitya Academy Award in 1970 for his work “Kaalam.”
• “Kaalam” is a novel that delves into the intricacies of human relationships and the impact of time on people’s lives.

3. 1982: Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award for Drama – Gopura Nadayil

• MT Vasudevan Nair’s literary talent extended beyond novels, and he was recognized for his contribution to drama with the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award in 1982 for “Gopura Nadayil.”

4. 1985: Vayalar Award for Randamoozham

• “Randamoozham” is a masterpiece by MT Vasudevan Nair that retells the epic Mahabharata from the perspective of Bhimasena.
• This remarkable work earned him the Vayalar Award in 1985, adding another feather to his illustrious cap.

5. 1986: Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award for Story – Swargam Thurakkunna Samayam

• MT Vasudevan Nair’s brilliance as a short story writer was recognized with the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award for “Swargam Thurakkunna Samayam” in 1986.

6. 1993: Odakkuzhal Award – Vanaprastham

• “Vanaprastham” is a literary work by MT Vasudevan Nair that was honored with the prestigious Odakkuzhal Award in 1993.

7. 1994: Muttathu Varkey Award

• MT Vasudevan Nair’s significant contributions to Malayalam literature were acknowledged with the Muttathu Varkey Award in 1994.

8. 1995: Jnanpith Award for his contributions to Malayalam literature

• The Jnanpith Award, one of the most esteemed literary awards in India, was bestowed upon MT Vasudevan Nair in 1995.
• This prestigious award recognized his exceptional literary achievements and his significant impact on Malayalam literature.

9. 1998: Padmarajan Award – Kaazhcha

• MT Vasudevan Nair’s work “Kaazhcha” was honored with the Padmarajan Award in 1998, reflecting the depth and quality of his writing.

10. 2001: Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam Sahithya Award

• The Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam honored MT Vasudevan Nair with the Sahithya Award in 2001 for his literary excellence.

11. 2003: Lalithambika Antharjanam Smaraka Sahitya Award

• MT Vasudevan Nair’s literary contributions were celebrated with the Lalithambika Antharjanam Smaraka Sahitya Award in 2003.

12. 2005: Kerala Sahitya Akademi Fellowship

• The Kerala Sahitya Akademi Fellowship, the highest literary honor in Kerala, was conferred upon MT Vasudevan Nair in 2005.

13. 2005: Vallathol Award

• MT Vasudevan Nair’s literary genius was recognized with the Vallathol Award in 2005.

14. 2005: Mathrubhumi Literary Award

• The Mathrubhumi Literary Award, one of Kerala’s most prestigious literary accolades, was presented to MT Vasudevan Nair in 2005.

15. 2011: Ezhuthachan Award

• MT Vasudevan Nair was honored with the Ezhuthachan Award in 2011, acknowledging his remarkable contributions to Malayalam literature.

16. 2011: T. K. Puraskaram

• The T. K. Puraskaram was bestowed upon MT Vasudevan Nair in 2011 for his literary brilliance and outstanding works.

17. 2011: Suvarnamudra Award

• MT Vasudevan Nair’s literary achievements were celebrated with the Suvarnamudra Award in 2011.

18. 2011: Mayilpeeli Award

• MT Vasudevan Nair’s significant contributions to Malayalam literature were recognized with the Mayilpeeli Award in 2011.

19. 2013: Sahitya Akademi Fellowship

• In addition to the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Fellowship, MT Vasudevan Nair was also honored with the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Fellowship in 2013.

20. 2013: Sree Chithira Thirunal Award

• MT Vasudevan Nair received the Sree Chithira Thirunal Award in 2013 for his invaluable contributions to Malayalam literature.

21. 2013: K. P. S. Menon Award

• The K. P. S. Menon Award recognized MT Vasudevan Nair’s literary excellence and notable works.

22. 2014: Nalappadan Award 2014 for his Holistic Contributions to Malayalam Literature (Nalappadan Memorial Cultural Society-NMCS)

• MT Vasudevan Nair was honored with the Nalappadan Award in 2014 for his holistic contributions to Malayalam literature.

23. 2014: Suvarnamudra Award by Guruvayur Naadha Brahmolsavam

• The Guruvayur Naadha Brahmolsavam honored MT Vasudevan Nair with the Suvarnamudra Award in 2014.

24. 2014: A. R. Raja Raja Varma Award

• MT Vasudevan Nair’s literary achievements were celebrated with the A. R. Raja Raja Varma Award in 2014.

25. 2014: Kakkanadan Award

• MT Vasudevan Nair received the Kakkanadan Award in 2014, reflecting his significant impact on Malayalam literature.

26. 2014: Balamani Amma Award

• The Balamani Amma Award recognized MT Vasudevan Nair’s literary excellence and notable contributions.

27. 2014: Tata-Landmark Literature Live! Lifetime Achievement Award

• MT Vasudevan Nair’s remarkable literary journey was acknowledged with the prestigious Tata-Landmark Literature Live! Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014.

28. 2015: O.M.C. Narayanan Namboodiripad Memorial Devi Prasadam Trust’s Award for Literature

• MT Vasudevan Nair was honored with the O.M.C. Narayanan Namboodiripad Memorial Devi Prasadam Trust’s Award for Literature in 2015.

29. 2015: Thakazhi Award

• The Thakazhi Award celebrated MT Vasudevan Nair’s exceptional contributions to Malayalam literature.

30. 2016: Deshabhimani Award

• MT Vasudevan Nair was presented with the Deshabhimani Award in 2016 for his outstanding cultural contributions.

31. 2018: O. N. V. Literary Award

• MT Vasudevan Nair received the O. N. V. Literary Award in 2018, honoring his remarkable literary achievements.

MT Vasudevan Nair’s literary journey has been nothing short of awe-inspiring, and these numerous awards and honors are a testament to his exceptional talent, creativity, and immense contribution to Malayalam literature. His works continue to inspire and captivate readers, making him one of the most celebrated literary figures in India.

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