Legendary Indian Writer MT Vasudevan Nair Passes Away at 91
MT Vasudevan Nair, a celebrated writer, filmmaker, and a giant in Malayalam literature, has passed away at 91, according to BBC. He died in a hospital in Kozhikode, Kerala, after being admitted for breathing issues. Known affectionately as “MT,” he left a lasting impact on Indian literature and cinema.
Born in 1933 in Kerala’s Palakkad district, MT developed a love for reading and writing at a young age, despite his family not encouraging it. He once shared with Outlook magazine that writing was his only “game” as a child. BBC highlights how MT began publishing stories in magazines as a young boy, eventually becoming one of India’s most respected writers.
His works like Naalukettu (Four Blocks), which explores the collapse of a joint family, and Randamoozham (The Second Turn), a retelling of the Mahabharata through the eyes of Bhima, are considered masterpieces. BBC also noted how Randamoozham cemented his place as a pioneer in Indian literature.
MT’s storytelling extended beyond books. He was a celebrated screenwriter and director, earning numerous national and state awards. His screenplay for Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha (A Northern Ballad of Valour), which retold a folktale with fresh perspectives on villainy and honour, is a landmark in Malayalam cinema. Malayalam superstar Mohanlal, who worked on some of MT’s projects, called him “Kerala’s pride.” BBC emphasized how his iconic dialogues in films became integral to understanding his narratives.
As an editor at Mathrubhumi, a major Malayalam magazine, MT nurtured young writers who later gained fame. BBC shared that he spent much of his time surrounded by books, deeply immersed in reading and reflecting. On his 90th birthday, Mathrubhumi’s managing director praised MT’s intense focus and passion for literature.
Tributes from the literary and film communities continue to pour in, as Kerala and India mourn the loss of a cultural icon whose work transcended generations.
BBC’s coverage reminds us of MT Vasudevan Nair’s incredible contributions to storytelling and how his legacy will inspire future generations.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czr3kdn7pv3o