Noted writer of historical fiction Sandilyan was remembered for his contributions to Tamil literature. At the centenary celebrations of Sandilyan (pen name of S. Bashyam), A. Padmanabhan, former Governor of Mizoram, said that Sandilyan's historical writing was unique, captivating readers of more than one generation. Combining historical facts, after discussions with historians, and fiction, Sandilyan emerged as a popular writer, he said.
Recalling his life and work, Mr. Padmanabhan said that Sandilyan also wrote on spirituality and religion and was a musician and thinker apart from being a writer. “Sandilyan was a legend and wordsmith par excellence,” he said. Suba and Lata, the illustrators of his works; Vanathi Pathipagam and Barathi Pathipagam, the publishers of his fiction, were honoured.
