M T Vasudevan Nair’s works to feature in first-ever Reader by Sahitya Akademi

Kozhikode: The Kendra Sahitya Akademi is set to release a Reader that brings together the extensive literary contributions of renowned writer M T Vasudevan Nair. According to Kendra Sahitya Akademi Secretary Prof. K. Srinivasarao, the book is planned for release within this year.

The Reader will include 15 selected stories by M T Vasudevan Nair, along with chapters from his notable novels, film scripts, conversations and interviews. The stories originally published in Malayalam have been translated into English for a wider audience.

The book will also feature the complete version of an interview conducted by N E Sudheer. Spanning over 600 pages, the Reader aims to provide an in-depth look at the celebrated writer's literary journey.

Initiative and idea

The idea of this Reader was proposed by Dr. K Jayakumar, former Vice-Chancellor of Malayalam University, in 2020. This marks the first time that the Akademi is preparing such a collection for a Malayalam writer.

Dr. K Jayakumar has also contributed to the project by translating some of the selected works and preparing the introduction for the book. The book will be ready for printing once the introduction is completed.

Delay in publication

While the book was initially planned earlier, delays in obtaining permission from various publishers of MT's previously published works have pushed back its release. Once these formalities are completed, the Reader will be ready for publication.