Renowned writer Priya A.S. has been awarded the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Bal Sahitya Puraskar 2023 in the Malayalam language for her captivating novel "Perumazhayathe Kunjithalukal" (The Children Who Never Withered). This remarkable achievement follows her previous recognition of winning the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award for Children's Literature in 2020 for the same novel.
The Sahitya Akademi Bal Sahitya Puraskar 2023 celebrates Priya A.S.'s exceptional talent and creativity in the realm of children's literature. Her writings have a unique ability to resonate with readers, captivating their imaginations and leaving a lasting impact. As Priya persists on her literary journey, her creations are hoped to inspire and amuse young minds, nurturing a deep love for reading and storytelling among juveniles.
"Perumazhayathe Kunjithalukal," published in 2018, has received widespread acclaim and accolades. The novel marked the inauguration of the children's literature section in the esteemed Malayalam news portal, IE Malayalam, a division of The Indian Express. It was featured as part of the Sammanapothi series by Poorna Books, introducing young readers to enchanting narratives that captivate their hearts and minds.
Priya A.S. drew inspiration for "Perumazhayathe Kunjithalukal" from the tragic Kerala floods of 2018. While working at the relief camps established by the instrumentation department of Cochin University of Science and Technology in Kochi, Priya witnessed the extraordinary resilience and unity displayed by children from diverse backgrounds in the face of this calamity. These profound experiences served as the backdrop for her novel, providing a unique perspective on the events and leaving readers profoundly moved.
The Sahitya Akademi Bal Sahitya Puraskar, bestowed by the Sahitya Akademi, carries a cash prize of Rs 50,000 and a beautifully engraved copper plaque. The winners in each language are carefully chosen by esteemed panels of three members. For the Malayalam language, the distinguished jury members were Dr Paul Manalil, Mundoor Sethumadhavan, and B S Rajeev. Among the ten recommended books considered for the award, Priya's novel emerged as the deserving winner, capturing hearts with its profound storytelling.
This is not the first time Priya A.S.'s literary prowess has been recognized. In 2014, she received the Sahitya Akademi Translation Prize for her exceptional Malayalam translation of Arundhati Roy's Booker Prize-winning novel, "The God of Small Things." This esteemed recognition further highlights Priya's immense talent and valuable contributions to the literary world.
Through her compelling storytelling and dedication to children's literature, Priya A.S. continues to leave an indelible mark on readers of all ages. Her work serves as a source of inspiration and delight, encouraging young minds to explore the magic of books and fostering a lifelong love for reading.
