M.T. Vasudevan Nair, celebrated Indian screenwriter, director and novelist, died on Dec. 25 at a hospital in Kozhikode after being admitted to a hospital for respiratory difficulties. He was 91.

His contributions to Malayalam-language cinema and literature redefined storytelling within the southern Indian state of Kerala the place he was born. Nair’s early publicity to conventional folktales and the plush landscapes of his homeland would later inform his distinct narrative model. His cinematic profession started within the early Nineteen Sixties, and he rapidly emerged as a grasp of the screenplay, turning into synonymous with an rising new wave motion in Malayalam cinema.

Nair’s debut as a screenwriter, “Murappennu” (1965), directed by A. Vincent, set the tone for a profession outlined by emotionally resonant, character-driven tales. Over the many years, he penned screenplays for over 60 movies, together with iconic works corresponding to “Nirmalyam” (1973), which gained India’s Nationwide Movie Award for Finest Function Movie and marked his directorial debut. His adaptation of the epic story in “Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha” (1989) earned him a Nationwide Award for Finest Screenplay, showcasing his capacity to reinterpret folklore with a contemporary sensibility.

His collaborations with administrators like Hariharan, Padmarajan, and Adoor Gopalakrishnan elevated Malayalam cinema to new heights. Movies like “Panchagni” (1986) and “Perumthachan” (1990) are lauded for his or her nuanced portrayal of human relationships and the socio-political panorama of Kerala. Nair’s work typically explored themes of ethical battle, existential dilemmas, and the intricate dynamics of rural life, reflecting his deep understanding of his cultural milieu.

Whereas his contributions to cinema earned him six Nationwide Movie Awards and a number of Kerala State Movie Awards, Nair’s literary achievements have been no much less vital. His first main novel, “Naalukettu” (1958), was a groundbreaking exploration of familial and generational battle throughout the matrilineal system of Nair society. The novel established him as a number one voice in Malayalam literature and earned the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award.

Over time, Nair authored quite a few novels, brief tales, and essays, lots of which have been translated into varied languages. Works like “Kaalam” (1969), “Manju” (1964), and “Randamoozham” (1984) cemented his repute as a literary craftsman. “Randamoozham,” a retelling of the Mahabharata by way of the attitude of Bhima, stays considered one of his most celebrated works.

Nair’s literary voice was marked by its readability, economic system of language, and evocative descriptions of the human situation. He acquired the Jnanpith Award in 1995, India’s highest literary honor, recognizing his contributions to literature.

Along with his artistic pursuits, Nair was an influential determine in Kerala’s cultural panorama. As an editor of main literary magazines and a mentor to numerous writers and filmmakers, he performed a pivotal function in shaping the narrative traditions of his time.

Earlier this 12 months, streaming platform ZEE5 World launched “Manorathangal,” a nine-part Malayalam-language anthology sequence celebrating the legacy of Nair that introduced collectively prime South Indian expertise.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted: “Saddened by the passing away of Shri MT Vasudevan Nair Ji, one of the revered figures in Malayalam cinema and literature. His works, with their profound exploration of human feelings, have formed generations and can proceed to encourage many extra. He additionally gave voice to the silent and marginalised. My ideas are along with his household and admirers. Om Shanti.”