Hundreds from various walks of life on Tuesday paid homage to eminent writer of children’s literature K.V. Ramanathan who died at a private hospital here on Monday night. He was 91.
Author of 20-odd children’s books, Mr. Ramanathan kindled the imagination of a whole generation of children and taught them to dream. His books entertained not only children but also elders. Atbutha Vanaranmar, Atbutha Neerali, Aamayaum Muyalaum Orikkal Koodi,Commander Gopi and Madhrika Poocha are among his popular books.
Winner of many literature awards, including Kendra Sahitya Akademi Award for overall contribution to children’s literature and Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award for children’s literature, Mr. Ramanathan was a teacher for 36 years at National High School, Irinjalakuda. He retired as headmaster of the school.
Mr. Ramanathan always considered his huge number of disciples in the 36 years of teaching career as his great achievement. His well-known students include oncologist V.P. Gangadharan, ISRO former chairman K. Radhakrishnan, playback singer P. Jayachandran and the late actor Innocent.
Mr. Ramanathan’s mortal remains was placed at the Kerala Sahitya Akademi, National Higher Secondary School , Irinjalakuda, and at his residence for the public to pay homage before it was cremated with full State honours at Mukthisthan at Irinjalakuda.
A large number of people, including Higher Education Minister R. Bindu, attended the remembrance meeting held in the evening at Irinjalakuda Town Hall. “Ramanathan master was an eminent presence in the cultural sector of Irinjalakuda. His contribution to children’s literature will be remembered forever. His death will create a void in the literary sector,” said Ms. Bindu.
Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi secretary Karivallur Murali said: “Ramanathan master’s works gave wings for the dreams of a generation. Children from 1960’s grew up reading his books. He wrote novels and short stories too.”
Mr. Ramanathan is survived by his wife K.K. Radha, retired principal, Government Vocational HSS, Irinjalakuda; and his children Renu Ramanath, former journalist with The Hindu and Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi executive member; and Indukala, Government Girls HSS, Irinjalakuda.
