Renowned Malayalam writer, director, and Jnanpith awardee MT Vasudevan Nair passed away at the age of 91 on Wednesday in Kozhikode. Fondly called MT, he had been under intensive care at Baby Memorial Hospital for the past 11 days. His health had deteriorated following a cardiac arrest, and though he was briefly taken off ventilator support on Tuesday, his condition worsened, leading to his demise.

The Kerala government has declared December 26 and 27 as days of official mourning to honor the literary stalwart. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced the postponement of all government events, including the cabinet meeting scheduled for December 26, as a mark of respect. The Chief Minister's Office confirmed receiving the news of MT's passing and expressed profound grief over the loss of a cultural giant.

The funeral is set to take place on Thursday at the Mavoor Road Crematorium at 5 pm. The mortal remains would be kept for public viewing at the Kottaram road residence, Sithara.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on X wrote, "With MT Vasudevan Nair’s passing, we’ve lost a doyen of Malayalam literature who elevated our language to global heights. A true cultural icon, he captured the soul of Kerala through his timeless works. His steadfast commitment to secularism and humanity leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations. Heartfelt condolences to his family and the cultural community."

MT Vasudevan Nair, one of the most celebrated figures in Malayalam literature and cinema, left an indelible mark across multiple genres, including novels, short stories, children's literature, travelogues, and essays. His contributions extended to filmmaking, where he directed six films, including the iconic ‘Nirmalyam,’ and created two acclaimed documentaries.

Honored with the Padma Bhushan in 2005, MT also received numerous accolades, including the Jnanpith Award, Ezhuthachan Puraskaram, Vayalar Award, Kendra and Kerala Sahitya Akademi Awards, Vallathol Puraskaram, and JC Daniel Puraskaram, cementing his place as a cultural luminary.