Writer, critic and biographer, Prof M K Sanu, has been chosen for this year's Ezhuthachan Puraskaram, the highest literary honour given by the Kerala government.
The award, carrying a cash prize of Rs 1.50 lakh, statuette, and a citation, was announced by Culture affairs Minister, K C Joseph, at a press meet here this evening.
The award is instituted after medieval poet Thunchath Ezhuthachan, revered as the father of Malayalam literature.
A towering literary figure, Sanu has authored a highly appreciated biography of saint-reformer Sree Narayana Guru and done extensive studies on works of poet Changampuzha Krishna Pillai and Vaikom Muhammad Basheer.
Sanu, who taught literature in government colleges in the state, also had a term in the state assembly, elected from Ernakulam assembly segment on LDF ticket in 1987.
He was chosen for the honour in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Malayalam literature, the minister said.
Sanu is also a former journalist and social activist who has authored over 36 books. He is a permanent member of International body for Human Rights.
The previous winners of the prestigious award include, O V Vijayan, Kamala Das, O N V Kurup, Akkitham Achuthan Namboodiripad, Sugathakumari, M Leelavathy, M T Vasudevan Nair and Attoor Ravi Varma.
The award would be presented to Sanu at a function at Thiruvananthapuram by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy.
