4 days Ago
Thiruvananthapuram: Renowned poet, author and former Chief Secretary of Kerala K Jayakumar has been selected for the prestigious Kendra Sahitya Akademi Award for 2024. The recognition comes for his Malayalam poetry collection , a work that delves into the erosion of societal values and encourages deep introspection. Selected from a shortlist of nine Malayalam works, the award includes a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh, a citation and a memento.
Jayakumar, born on October 6, 1952, in Thiruvananthapuram, is a multifaceted personality. A retired IAS officer from the 1978 batch, he served in various significant roles, including District Collector of Kozhikode, Secretary of Tourism and Culture, and Chief Secretary of Kerala from April to October 2012. Following his retirement, he became the founding Vice-Chancellor of Thunchath Ezhuthachan Malayalam University.
In addition to his administrative career, Jayakumar is celebrated for his vast contributions to literature and the arts. He has authored a number of books in both Malayalam and English, with works spanning poetry, translations and prose. His translations of iconic writers such as Rabindranath Tagore, Kahlil Gibran and Rumi have been widely acclaimed.
His literary achievements have earned him numerous accolades, including the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award for Overall Contributions in 2021 and the Asan Poetry Prize. He is currently serving as the director of Kerala Government's Institute of Management. Jayakumar’s contribution extends to Malayalam cinema, where he has written lyrics for nearly 100 films, as well as songs for albums, television and radio.
His popular songs include "Shaarike Ninnekkaanaan", "Kudajadriyil Kudikollum", "Chandanalepa Sugandham" and "Souparnikamritha Veechikal". His artistic sensibilities are further reflected in his work as a painter, having held 17 solo exhibitions in India and abroad. Speaking about ‘Pingala Kesini’, Jayakumar described the collection as a reflection on the decline of moral and ethical values in modern society.
The work invites readers to contemplate their roles in preserving humanity’s core principles. This thematic depth and poetic brilliance have made Pingala Kesini a standout contribution to Malayalam literature. Jayakumar’s recognition by the Kendra Sahitya Akademi is a testament to his unparalleled contributions to literature and the arts.
His ability to seamlessly blend administrative excellence with creative endeavors has made him a true luminary, inspiring generations of readers and art enthusiasts alike..
