Kozhikode remains teary-eyed as admirers from varied walks of life make a beeline to MT’s Sithara

Kozhikode: People of Kozhikode continued to pay their last respects to literary giant M.T. Vasudevan Nair, even as he rested in eternal peace. Though the eminent writer had found eternal rest, his admirers, stirred by the profound impact of his works, streamed towards his residence, Sithara, throughout Thursday night. The poignant scenes bore testimony to the indelible mark MT left on countless lives.

Despite the gates being closed past midnight, mourners continued to gather outside, sharing their sorrow and paying heartfelt tributes. MT's wife, Saraswathi Teacher and daughter Aswathy, stood as witnesses to this overwhelming outpouring of love and grief. Even after the cremation ceremony concluded at 5 PM on Thursday evening, the crowds did not dwindle. Most were ordinary people whose lives had been touched by MT's writings.

Among the notable visitors was K Muraleedharan, who arrived early Friday morning, expressing regret for being unable to visit the previous day due to unforeseen circumstances. Dubbing artist Bhagyalakshmi, director Major Ravi and MP E.T. Mohammed Basheer also visited to offer their condolences.

Balachandran Chullikkad’s emotional call

On Friday night, Aswathy received a deeply emotional call from poet Balachandran Chullikkad. “I had visited on Thursday but was too overwhelmed to say anything,” he confessed, his voice breaking. “I had to leave abruptly.” As his words faltered amidst tears, Aswathy herself was moved to tears. 

An endless stream of visitors

Sithara residence continued to receive a steady stream of visitors. Musician Deepankuran and his wife Saranya, actor-director Basil Joseph and his wife Elizabeth, and several others arrived to pay homage. MT's empty chair and his collection of books stood as silent witnesses to the void left behind by his departure.

State Housing Board Chairman T.V. Balan, KPCC Secretary I. Musa, and other dignitaries joined the family in their moment of grief. Filmmaker Mani Ratnam conveyed his condolences over phone, while Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s message of sympathy was received on Friday.

A legacy that transcends generations

M.T. Vasudevan Nair, revered for his unparalleled contribution to Malayalam literature and cinema, leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations. His works have not only shaped cultural narratives but also touched the hearts of readers and viewers across linguistic and geographical boundaries.

As the city of Kozhikode mourns, it also celebrates the life of a literary titan whose words will resonate for eternity.