Writers Vaisakhan, TD Ramakrishnan, Shinilla and Mini Prasad share their experience in a panel discussion on the international literature in Kerala, organized on Tuesday by Kerala Sahitya by Academs. | Photo Credit: Kk Najeeb
“Mahatma Gandhi is not just a memory of the past, but he is currently relevant,” said writer and speaker Sunil P. Ilayidam, and on Tuesday he dealt with “Gandhi, Guru and Society”.
He was thinking about the historical meeting between Mahatma Gandhi and Sree Narayan Guru and noted that it deeply influenced the course of the Indian national movement. “From the very beginning, nationalism carried Vedic and Brahmanic undertone and the seeds of religious nationalism were sown in the first decades of the 19th century,” Mr. Ilyidam said. “Gandhi was an organic philosopher who dealt with the material problems of human life.”
The daily sessions witnessed living poetry reading, while the current poets revived their latest works through rhythm and melody. The recitals chaired by the veteran poet Raavunni left the audience enthusiastic. Among those who participated were S. Kalesh, MB Manoj, Shailan, Vinod Vaishaqi, Mrs. Banesh, Vishnumangalam, Sabu Kottkkal, Ashokan Marayoor, Bila C. Narayan and Kv Sumithra.
On the panel “Story: Writing Experience” noted writer Isaac Eapen, “only writers who know the tension of the time will last a history test.” The discussion was moderated by senior writer and editor of PK Parakkadav. The writer VH Nishad said, “Writers are progressing by maintaining memories,” while VKK Ramesh added, “Only those who dare to hurt can rise in the literature.” Young writers Ajijesh Pakhatt, Akhila ks and mridul VM also participated.
In an interview with the writer and bureaucrats Divya S. Iyer, novelist Subhash Chandran emphasized the power of artistic freedom. “Artists are those who can last before any power,” he said. “Literature is an artistic ability to create miracles. Malayalam with the word Kalpana (imagination) is a powerful language that connects the authority’s command with the creativity of the artist.”
Another session led by the writer of VS Binda focused on the fighting and progress of women. “We still have a long journey to travel before we reach a new era of femininity,” she stressed. The discussion touched the rise of masculinity among young men, the absence of women in leading politics, the representation of women in the media and the greater struggle for survival. Panelists included CS Chandrica, K. Anushree, Jisa Jose, Sreeja Shyam, Bin G. Thampi, Drishya Padmanabhan and Dakshina.
Writers Vaisakhan, TD Ramakrishhnan, Shinilla and Mini Prasad participated in another panel discussion called “The Evandi, Sahitya, Keralam”.
Published – August 20, 2025 20:57 IS IS
