Thiruvananthapuram: Distinguished poet, author, and former Chief Secretary of Kerala, K Jayakumar, has been awarded the prestigious Kendra Sahitya Akademi Award for 2024. His acclaimed Malayalam poetry collection Pingala Kesini, which explores the erosion of societal values and inspires introspection, was chosen from a shortlist of nine notable Malayalam works. The award includes a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh, a citation, and a memento.
Born on October 6, 1952, in Thiruvananthapuram, Jayakumar is a retired IAS officer known for his illustrious administrative and creative career. During his tenure, he held key positions, including District Collector of Kozhikode and Kerala’s Chief Secretary. Post-retirement, he became the founding Vice-Chancellor of Thunchath Ezhuthachan Malayalam University.
Jayakumar’s literary contributions span poetry, prose, and translations, earning widespread acclaim. He has skillfully translated works of Rabindranath Tagore, Rumi, and Kahlil Gibran, alongside authoring several original pieces. He previously received the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award for Overall Contributions in 2021 and the Asan Poetry Prize.
In the realm of Malayalam cinema, Jayakumar’s lyrical mastery shines in songs like Shaarike Ninnekkaanaan and Chandanalepa Sugandham. Additionally, he is an accomplished painter with 17 solo exhibitions to his credit.
Commenting on Pingala Kesini, Jayakumar highlighted its focus on the deterioration of moral values and the need for preserving humanity’s ethical fabric. The collection’s profound themes and poetic brilliance underscore his exceptional impact on Malayalam literature. This award cements Jayakumar’s legacy as a visionary blending administrative acumen with artistic brilliance.
