Thiruvananthapuram: Prominent Malayalam writer and academician R Rajasree has been selected for the 50th Vayalar Ramavarma Literary Award for her novel Aathreyakam, published by Mathrubhumi Books. The prestigious honour carries a cash prize of ₹1 lakh, a bronze sculpture crafted by renowned sculptor Kanayi Kunhiraman, and a citation.

The award recipient was selected by an expert judging committee comprising O V Usha, Subhash Chandran and V Vijayakumar. Chief Minister V D Satheesan will present the award during a official ceremony on October 27, the death anniversary of Vayalar Ramavarma, at 5.30 pm at the Nishagandhi Auditorium in Thiruvananthapuram.

The announcement was made during a press conference attended by Vayalar Ramavarma Memorial Trust members Prabha Varma, Dr V Ramankutty and B Satheesan, along with members of the judging panel.


About the author and literary career

Born in Parassinikadavu in Kannur district, R Rajasree is a leading voice in modern fiction and feminist discourse in Kerala. She is widely known for her insightful storytelling and sharp characterisations.

Her earlier novel ‘Kalyaniennum Dakshayaniennum Parayapetta Randu Streekalude Katha’ received critical accolades, including the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award, establishing her reputation for documenting women's lives with authenticity and emotional resonance.

Rajasree, who serves as a professor in Malayalam literature, has contributed extensively to literary criticism, cultural studies and gender research in Kerala.


Legacy of the Vayalar Award

Instituted in 1977 by the Vayalar Ramavarma Memorial Trust, the Vayalar Award is among the most coveted honors in Malayalam literature. It is presented annually on October 27, the death anniversary of Vayalar Ramavarma, to outstanding creative works in prose or poetry published over the preceding years.

Former recipients of the award include literary stalwarts such as Lalithambika Antharjanam, O V Vijayan, M T Vasudevan Nair, Sugathakumari and Sarah Joseph.