MT-Chettan: A Staunch Advocate of Free Speech

T Vasudevan Nair, fondly known to me and countless others as "MT-chettan" or elder brother, was a towering figure in Malayalam literature and cinema.

- Shashi Tharoor Congress MP

His contributions have left an indelible mark on both the fields, making him one of the most celebrated and respected personalities not just in Kerala's cultural history, but also India's.

As an author of searing and insightful fiction, MT authored nine novels and 19 collections of short stories, each reflecting the socio-political changes in and cultural renaissance of Kerala. His first major novel, Naalukettu (1958), or 'The House with the Inner Courtyard,' dealt with the decaying feudal Nair family system and won the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award. Other notable works include Asuravithu (1962), a disturbing work of human degeneration that literally translates as 'Demon Seed,' and Randamoozham (1984), 'Second Turn,' which retells the Mahabharata from Bhima's perspective - Bhima's was the 'second turn' with Draupadi.

MT's works often explored the complexities of human relationships, the decay of traditional family systems, and the socio-economic transformations of Kerala. His writing style is characterized by its lyrical quality, deep empathy, and profound understanding of human nature. It received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Jnanpith Award in 1995, the highest literary honor in India. He was also awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2005 for his contributions to literature and education.