Ezhuthachan prize for novelist Kovilan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Veteran Malayalam novelist Kovilan has been chosen for the Kerala Government's highest literary honour "Ezhuthachan Puraskaram" in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Malayalam literature.

Kovilan was informed of the decision by Culture Minister M A Baby, who called on the 83-year old writer at his residence at Kandanassery in Thrissur District on Monday, a spokesman for the Culture Minister's office said here.

The award, instituted after medieval poet Thunchathtu Ezhuthachan, includes Rs one lakh, citation and memento.

The selection was made by a panel headed by former Vice-Chancellor of Kerala University Dr G Balamohanan Thampi, Sathitya Akademi President M Mukundan, writer George Onakkur and Dr Jameela Begum.

Kovilan stands apart with originality in his themes, sharp characterisation and quality of style. He has been having a profound influence in literary and cultural spheres over the last several decades.

An ex-service man, Kovilan's widely appreciated works include "A minus B", Thattakam, Thottangal and Bharathan. He had also brought out collections of short stories.