Renowned Malayalam writer UA Khader passes away

As soon as he began writing and his stories came to be published in literary magazines, it became apparent that Khader’s name would be etched into the history of Malayalam literature. He went on to work in various government capacities and headed the Purogamana Kala Sahitya Sangham, a progressive body of artists and writers. He was a member of the jury of the state film awards four times.

Khader won the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award in 1983 and the Kendra Sahitya Akademi Award in 2009 for his most acclaimed work ‘Thrikkottur Peruma’. Some of his other works are Raziya Sultana, Arabikadalinte Theeram, Chempavizham, Arippravinte Premam and Srishtavinte Khajana.

Khader worked in the state health department’s administrative section from 1964 till 1990. He also worked on deputation at the Kozhikode Akashvani between 1967 and 1972.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan condoled Khader’s death, terming it as an irreplaceable loss for Malayalam literature and especially the progressive literature front.

Deeply saddened to learn of the passing away of noted writer U.A. Khader. As a writer, he went against the grain of the times. His works assimilated the diverse experiences of Malayali life. In his passing, Kerala has lost one of its literary masters. pic.twitter.com/pOaEVC7h4L

— Pinarayi Vijayan (@vijayanpinarayi) December 12, 2020

“Throughout his life, he held onto secular and progressive values which was reflected in his creative works as well,” the CM said.