G. Sankara Kurup (1901-1978)

Technical Data

Date of Issue	October 9, 2003
Denomination	Rs. 5
Perforation	comb 13½ x 13
Printer	Security Printing Press, Nashik
Printing Process	Photogravure
Watermark	No Watermark
Colors	Black \| Cream
Credit (Designed By)	Smt. Alka Sharma
Catalog Codes	Michel IN 1980 Stamp Number IN 2025a Yvert et Tellier IN 1745 Stanley Gibbons IN 2154 WADP Numbering System - WNS IN037.03
Themes	Authors \| Famous people \| Literary People (Poets and Writers) \| Literature \| Men \| Optical Instruments

Introduction

G. Sankara Kurup was one of the most distinguished poets in Malayalam literature. Known for his mystical outlook and refined poetic style, his works are characterized by elegant diction, artistic craftsmanship and deep intellectual thought. Besides poetry, he also wrote dramas and essays, contributing greatly to the literary heritage of Kerala.

Literary Style and Themes

G. Sankara Kurup’s creative evolution can be understood through four major themes that often blend with one another:

Romanticism
Mysticism
Nationalism
Humanism

These themes shaped his poetry and gave it depth, emotional richness and philosophical insight.

Romantic and Lyrical Works

Many of Kurup’s early works reflect romantic imagination and lyrical beauty. Notable examples include:

Sandhya Taram (Twilight Star)
Sooryakanti (Sunflower)
Pushpageeti (Song of Flower)

These works are celebrated for their delicate imagery and emotional intensity.

Nationalistic Poetry

Kurup’s poetry also expressed a strong national spirit. Collections such as:

Azhimukham (Harbour Mouth)
Raktabindu (Drop of Blood)

reflect the fervour and patriotic emotions of the period.

Humanistic Vision

His poem Pathikante Pattu (Song of the Wayfarer) beautifully expresses his universal humanism and compassion for humanity.

Jnanpith Award and Odakkuzhal

Kurup’s most celebrated work is Odakkuzhal (The Flute), a remarkable collection of poems that combines romantic beauty with profound mysticism. This masterpiece earned him the prestigious Jnanpith Award, making him the first recipient of this honour in Indian literature.

Commemoration

To honour his immense contribution to literature, India Post issued a commemorative postage stamp featuring G. Sankara Kurup. The stamp is part of the “Jnanpith Award Winners: Malayalam” series that celebrates distinguished Malayalam writers.

Legacy

G. Sankara Kurup remains a towering figure in Indian poetry. His works, blending romanticism, mysticism and humanistic ideals, continue to inspire readers and uphold the richness of Malayalam literature.