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Footprints
Mali
is the benchmark in Malayalam children’s
literature. He set world class standards (quantum of output,
quality, simplicity and creativity) for Malayalam children’s
literature. Mali’s wordcraft manifested itself in an innovatively
simple style that reached out and captivated children and adults
alike. It is therefore not surprising that most of his 52 books
are best sellers! The thousands of stories and childlike humour that
flowed from his pen are a priceless treasure for children in the
years to come. Virtually all his work is ideally suited for
animation and special effects for today’s infotainment.
By
retelling the three epics in his own inimitable style Mali has performed
yeoman service in educating and instilling amongst readers, a sense of
pride in India’s ancient and noble heritage. Mali Ramayanam,
Mali Bharatham, Mali Bhagavatham, Puranakathamalika and all the
other wonderful books are a treasure trove of stories, highest human
values and cultural refinement that are vitally required in the world
today..
The
most popular attakkatha (kathakali play) of the modern age, Karnasapatham,
which has been staged over 10,000 times was authored by Mali. It was born
out of his masterly understanding of not just kathakali but also human
behaviour, music and the ethos of India. By its one-act play style, simple
but highly evocative lyrics set to appropriate ragas (some of which have
never before been used in kathakali) and a gripping storyline, Karnaspatham
has enthralled audiences all over the world. Mali’s signal service to
kathakali has been to increase its mass appeal by ensuring that even
laymen can appreciate and enjoy Karnasapatham.
Mali’s
Kerala Sangeetham is still the ultimate reference work
for scholars of carnatic music as it has evolved in Kerala. Students
and musicians alike use this book to enhance their understanding and build
their repertories.
Mali
was one of those rare gems who combined personal discipline, integrity of
the highest order, scholarship, versatility, creativity and supreme
writing ability. He transcended into the higher realms on the 2nd of July
1994 but his work remains as a priceless treasure….and still
speaks…with eloquence about his contributions.
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