Vallathol Narayana Menon (1878-1958)

The poetic career of Vallathol Narayana Menon spans from the classical tradition era in Malayalam Literature to the modern age of social protest. His poetry stirred the patriotic fervor of the freedom fighters of Kerala. Vallathol was born on October 16, 1878, in Chennara village near Ponnani in Kerala. In contrast to his later progressive and revolutionary image, his education followed traditional lines. He studied Sanskrit poetry, grammar, astrology, and the Ayurvedic system of medicine. However, his genius refused to be confined to these narrow limits. He began writing poetry at thirteen. His first major work, which brought him into the limelight at twenty-seven, was his Malayalam translation of Valmiki’s Ramayana. Significantly, his last major work was also a translation, that of the Rig Veda, which he completed a few months before his passing.

His poetry evolved through three distinct stages: the classicism of his early days, the nationalism of later years, and the progressivism of his final days. While his extensive poetic repertoire cannot be listed here, notable works like “Sishyanum Makanum,” “Magdalana Mariam,” and “Kochu Seeta” have left a deep impression on Malayalam readers of past generations. Many of his famous lyrical works have been collected and published under the title “Sahitya Manjari” in thirteen volumes.

During the Vaikom temple entry satyagraha, Vallathol met Mahatma Gandhi, whom he called his guru in a popular poem he wrote about the Mahatma. His commitment to India’s freedom led him to refuse an award from the then Prince of Wales during his visit to India. Vallathol also played a crucial role in revitalizing the performing arts of Kerala, particularly Kathakali and Mohiniattam, which were gradually declining. To provide these arts their rightful place, he founded the “Kerala Kalamandalam” in Cheruthuruthy in 1927, which has since become a world-renowned institution for imparting training in classical dance forms.

In both literature and fine arts, Vallathol stands as one of the finest representatives of the cultural renaissance of modern India. He passed away on March 13, 1958, at the age of 80, having received numerous honors. He had the satisfaction of witnessing a new society take shape, a society for the creation of which his poetry had made invaluable contributions. The Indian Post and Telegraphs Department feel privileged to issue a commemorative postage stamp in his honor.