Prominent Malayalam Author Prof. M.K. Sanu Passes Away at 97

A Literary Giant in Kerala

Prof. M.K. Sanu, a distinguished Malayalam author, academic, and former Member of the Legislative Assembly, has died at the age of 97. His passing occurred at Amrita Hospital in Kochi at approximately 5:35 PM on Saturday. The hospital reported that he had been receiving treatment for injuries sustained from a fall over the past week.

A significant figure in the literary and educational landscape of Kerala, Prof. Sanu was awarded the Ezhuthachan Puraskaram by the Kerala Sahitya Akademi in 2013 and the Kendra Sahitya Akademi Award in 2011.

Born on October 27, 1928, in Thumboli, Alappuzha District, he began his career as a school teacher for four years before transitioning to a professorship at government colleges. His literary journey commenced in 1958 with the publication of his first book, 'Anchu Sastra Nayakanmar (Five Major Scientists)', followed by a critical work titled 'Kaattum Velichavum' in 1960. He retired in 1983.

In 1986, he took on the role of president of the Progressive Literature Society and, in 1987, successfully ran as an independent candidate supported by the Left from the Ernakulam Legislative Assembly constituency.

Prof. Sanu authored 36 books, including biographies of notable figures such as Sri Narayanaguru Swami, Sahodaran Ayyappan, and Changampuzha Krishnapillai. His memoirs include 'Thaazhvarayile Sandhya' and 'Ivar Lokathe Snehichavar'.

His literary contributions span nearly forty works across various genres, including criticism, children's literature, and biography, along with an autobiography titled 'Karmagathi'.

He is survived by his wife, N Ratnamma, and their children: Ranjith, Rekha, Geetha, Seetha, and Harris.