Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri

Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri: A Poet of Rare Integrity

Imagine a world where words are not just symbols on paper but vessels carrying the essence of profound love and compassion. This is what Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri, an Indian poet and essayist, brought to life through his literary works in Malayalam.

The Journey Begins

Born on March 18, 1926, at Amettikkara, Kerala, Akkitham started his career as an editor of Unni Namboothiri magazine and worked with All India Radio. His literary works gained attention in the early 1950s, including ‘Epic of the 20th Century’ and ‘The Vision of Bali’. These were just the beginning of a journey that would see him publish approximately 45 books comprising poetry anthologies, plays, and short stories.

Awards and Honours

Reflecting on his lifetime contribution to Malayalam literature, Akkitham was noted as a ‘poet of rare integrity’ with poetry reflecting ‘unfathomable compassion, imprints of Indian philosophical and moral values’. He received numerous awards for his works, including the Jnanpith Award in 2019, the highest literary honour in India. Other accolades include Padma Shri, Ezhuthachan Award, Vallathol Award, Vayalar Award, Sanjayan Award, Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award, Odakkuzhal Award, and many more.

Social Reform and Translations

Akkitham was deeply involved in social reform activities. He translated Srimad Bhagavatam into Malayalam, a significant contribution to the literary world. His works also include Thelumku kathakal (1979), Thelugu kadhakal: dhanagupthanenna kachavadakkarante athyarthi (2010, 2nd ed.), and Samskrtha Malayala Nighantu (1980).

Legacy and Documentary

Arikil Akkitham is a documentary film about his life directed by E. Suresh from the perspective of his daughter, Sreeja. This film captures the essence of a man who dedicated his life to literature and social reform.

Personal Life

Akkitham was married to Sreedevi Antharjanam with two sons and four daughters. He passed away on October 15, 2020, at the age of 94 in Thrissur due to ill health.

As we reflect on the life and works of Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri, it is clear that his legacy lives on through his poetry and essays. He was not just a poet but a beacon of hope and compassion in a world often clouded by darkness. His journey reminds us that every word has the power to change hearts and minds.