'Akasamittayi': The story behind Basheer Memorial opening in Beypore, Kerala’s Kozhikode

Beypore: Thirty years after the passing of Vaikom Muhammad Basheer, his legacy continues to resonate within the minds of Malayali readers. Today, on July 5, his residence 'Vylalil' in Beypore will witness another gathering as people from far and wide gather to commemorate the legendary author’s enduring spirit.

The highlight of this thirtieth anniversary is the completion of the long-awaited Basheer memorial, 'Akasamittayi'. This dream project on BC Road has materialised due to the continuous efforts of Minister PA Mohammed Riyas, who is also the local MLA. Scheduled to open to visitors in the coming months, the Basheer Memorial was named 'Akasamittayi', inspired by Basheer's work 'Premalekhanam', where the name symbolises unity beyond caste and religion. In the work, when Kesavan Nair, a Hindu, and Saramma, a Christian, fell in love and got married, there was a big problem as to what to name the child born to them. When the dispute escalated, the child was named 'Akasamittayi' irrespective of caste and religion.

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Designed by renowned architect Vinod Cyriac, 'Akasamittayi' will feature an open theatre, recreational facilities for all ages, a museum, sculpture garden, library, and a flower garden.