Saraswati Samman awarded to Prabha Varma for 'Roudra Sathwikam'

Noted poet and litterateur Prabha Varma is to be awarded the prestigious Saraswati Samman 2023 recently in March 2024 for his novel 'Roudra Sathwikam'. The award is given by the KK Birla Foundation

Prabha Varma's Literary Journey & Accomplishments

• • Born in Thiruvalla+
  • Excelled as a bilingual writer in Malayalam and English
  • Emerged as an important voice in contemporary Malayalam literature
  • More than 30 published books, including poetry collections, novels in verse, socio-political commentaries, and essays
  • Recipient of over 70 awards, including the National Sahitya Akademi Award and the National Film Award
  • A towering figure in the Indian literary landscape
  • Prolific writer with over 30 published books across genres
  • Notable works include poetry collections like 'Souparnika,' 'Arkkapoornima,' 'Shyama Madhavam,' and novels like 'Chandana Nazhi,' 'Aardram,' and 'Kanal Chilambu'
  • Recipient of prestigious awards like Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award, Kendra Sahitya Akademi Award, Vayalar Award, and State and Filmfare awards for best lyrics

Award-winning Novel: 'Roudra Sathwikam'

• • A verse novel published in 2022
  • Probes the conflict between power, politics, individual, state, art, and power
  • Transcends the concept of time and space, addressing the predicament of righteousness and unrighteousness
  • Explores complex themes of morality, ethics, human nature, and the struggle between good and evil

About Saraswati Samman

• • Instituted in 1991
  • One of the most prestigious literary awards in India
  • Awarded annually for an outstanding literary work in any Indian language
  • Award carries a citation, a plaque, and a cash prize of ₹15 lakh
  • Recipient chosen by a selection committee headed by former Supreme Court judge, Justice Arjan Kumar Sikri
  • Recognizes outstanding literary works in any Indian language
  • Celebrates the diversity and richness of Indian literature
  • Promotes and encourages literary excellence across the country
  • First Saraswati Samman in 1991 awarded to Harivansh Rai Bachchan for his four-volume autobiography
  • Last year's awardee was Tamil writer Sivasankari for her novel 'Surya Vamsam'

The selection committee headed by a former Supreme Court judge ensures a rigorous and impartial selection process.

Conclusion

• • Prabha Varma's recognition with the Saraswati Samman, 2023 is a significant acknowledgment of his immense contribution to Indian literature.
  • The award celebrates his literary genius and profound exploration of complex themes through his verse novel 'Roudra Sathwikam'.