On July 19, 1909, a literary legend was born in the Keralan region of Thrissur, India – Balamani Amma. Today, we celebrate her 113th birth anniversary with a Google Doodle, honoring her significant contributions to poetry and literature. Let us delve into the life and works of this illustrious poet, known as the “grandmother of Malayalam literature.”
Balamani Amma’s Early Life and Literary Journey
Born as Nalapat Balamani Amma, she hailed from the prestigious Nalapat family of poets and scholars. Despite receiving limited formal education, her maternal uncle, Nalappat Narayana Menon, played a crucial role in nurturing her literary talents by providing her with access to his vast collection of books. Under his guidance, Balamani Amma developed her poetic prowess, which would later lead her to become an eminent figure in Indian poetry.
Her literary journey began at the tender age of 21 when her first poem, “Kooppukai,” was published in 1930. The poem caught the attention of Parikshith Thampuran, the former king of the Kingdom of Cochin, who honored her with the Sahithya Nipuna Puraskaram, marking the beginning of her illustrious career as a poet.
Balamani Amma’s Notable Works
Throughout her life, Balamani Amma authored more than 20 poetry anthologies, numerous prose works, and translations. Some of her most acclaimed poems include “Amma” (Mother), “Muthassi” (Grandmother), and “Mazhuvinte Katha” (The Story of the Axe). Her poems often delved into the complexities of human emotions and experiences, resonating deeply with readers across generations.
Her collection of poems spanning from 1959 to 1986, titled “Nivedyam,” stands as a testament to her literary prowess. In addition to poetry, she wrote an elegy, “Lokantharangalil,” in memory of the esteemed poet Nalapat Narayana Menon, further showcasing her versatility and mastery of the craft.
Awards and Recognition
Balamani Amma’s literary brilliance did not go unnoticed, as she received numerous awards and recognition for her contributions. Some of the prestigious accolades she earned include the Ezhuthachan Award, Sahitya Akademi Award, and the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honor. Her magnum opus, “Nivedyam,” brought her the coveted Saraswati Samman in 1995, solidifying her place in the pantheon of celebrated Indian poets.
Legacy and Family
Balamani Amma’s impact on Malayalam literature and her role as a guiding force for future generations of poets earned her endearing titles like “Amma” and “Muthassi” in the world of Malayalam poetry. Her influence extended beyond her own work, inspiring many writers and poets in the Malayalam literary landscape.
Notably, Balamani Amma was also the mother of Kamala Surayya, known by her married name Kamala Das and her pen name Madhavikutty. Kamala Surayya was a prolific writer who garnered fame for her works in both Malayalam and English. She, too, became an influential figure in Indian literature, renowned for her poems and candid autobiographical writings.
Balamani Amma’s contributions to poetry and literature have left an indelible mark on the world of Malayalam literature. Through her profound and emotive verses, she captured the essence of human emotions, leaving a lasting impact on readers. Her numerous awards and the admiration she earned from her peers and the literary community reflect her unparalleled talent and invaluable contributions to Indian literature.
Today, as we celebrate the 113th birth anniversary of Balamani Amma, let us honor her memory and continue to appreciate and cherish her poetry, which continues to inspire and touch the hearts of readers around the world.
