Pudhaiyal Puthagam and Padithu Arivom – Sa. Kandasamy – Kavitha Publication, Post Box Number: 6123, 8, Masilamani Street, Pondy Bazaar, T. Nagar, Chennai 600017 – Contact: 24364243 and 24322177. Rs. 150 and Rs. 100 respectively.
The titles are different but the second actually is an extension of the first. The author, a voracious reader, opens the window to writings of various kinds – right from Anandarangam Pillai Diary to Paramartha Guru Kadai of Veeramamunivar. Each essay gives his impressions of the work excerpts from which form an appendix. The subjects span a wide spectrum of subjects, including Sangam literature, freedom fighters, revolutionaries, etc. Even Tholkappiyam finds mention here. The essay on Andrik Andriques educates the reader on the beginnings of printing technology. Both volumes are a fund of information.
Sirikkalam Vaanga – M.B. Murthi – Gangai Puthaga Nilayam, 23, Deenadayalu Street,
T. Nagar, Chennai 600017 – Contact 24342810 and 24310769; gangaibooks@gmail.com – Rs. 70.
Madhava Boovarahamurti, well-known Tamil playwright, comes across as a breezy writer in this collection that sparkles with earthy humour. Assuming the role of a docile husband, father of two teenagers, the author captures situations common in a middle class household. Beneath the veneer of a hapless man, harassed by a demanding (house) wife, is an affectionate head of family, who actually enjoys the ‘travails.’ Incidentally, a couple of essays that he has posted in his blog underline his flair.
