Tamil writer G.S. Balakrishnan, who had a prolific writing career spanning 60 years, died at the age of 90 at his house in Valmiki Nagar here on February 9.
An English teacher by profession and a self-taught Tamil language writer, Mr. Balakrishnan, in his career which began in the 1940s, wrote over 500 short stories in Tamil. In addition, he has written a number of novels, novellas and skits with his works appearing in both literary and popular magazines including Kanaiyazhi , Kumudam , Ananda Vikatan , Kalki , Kalaimagal and Amudhasurabi . His short stories straddled a wide range of themes — humour, philosophy, medical ethics, patriotism, romance, hope and disillusionment.
Many awards
Alliance Publishers had published many of his Tamil books, including anthologies of short stories, and an introductory treatise on humour. He had bagged the Kalki-Berkeley Award for the best humorous story, among other awards and recognition.
Renowned Tamil writer Sujatha Rangarajan had placed Mr. Balakrishnan for his humour with the literary doyens such as Kalki, SVV, Devan, Nadodi and Savi. He is survived by his wife, Vijaya Balakrishnan, and two sons.
