He breathed his last at 5.35 pm at Amrita Hospital in Kochi, where he was undergoing treatment following a hip fracture sustained in a fall.
Published Aug 02, 2025 | 10:09 PM ⚊ Updated Aug 02, 2025 | 10:10 PM
Prof MK Sanu (27 October 1928 - 2 August 2025)
Renowned Malayalam literary critic, writer, and orator Professor MK Sanu passed away on Saturday, 2 August, at the age of 97.
Affectionately known as “Sanu Mash,” he was a towering figure in Kerala’s cultural and literary circles.
He breathed his last at 5.35 pm at Amrita Hospital in Kochi, where he was undergoing treatment following a hip fracture sustained in a fall. Despite surgery, he remained in the ICU due to persistent respiratory issues.
A multifaceted personality—teacher, writer, thinker, and legislator—Sanu influenced generations through his sharp intellect and deep humanism.
He authored over 40 works spanning literary criticism, biography, autobiography, and essays. Among his accolades are the prestigious Ezhuthachan Puraskaram, Vayalar Award, and the Sahitya Akademi Awards (both State and Central).
Born on 27 October 1928 in Thumpoly, Alappuzha, Sanu completed his MA in Malayalam from University College, Thiruvananthapuram, securing the first rank.
Beginning his career as a schoolteacher, he later served as a professor in various government colleges across Kerala. He retired in 1983.
Sanu’s literary journey began with Anchu Sastra Nayakanmar (1958), but it was Kaatum Velichavum (1960) that established him as a critic of grace and clarity.
Deeply influenced by leftist ideology and the teachings of Sree Narayana Guru, his works consistently echoed the spirit of Kerala’s renaissance movement.
His biographies—especially Changampuzha Krishna Pillai: Nakshatrangalude Snehabhajanam—are considered definitive texts. He also chronicled the lives of Vaikkom Muhammad Basheer, PK Balakrishnan, Albert Schweitzer, and MC Joseph.
A former MLA, he served as the president of the Purogamana Sahitya Sangham and chaired the Kerala Sahitya Akademi.
His autobiography, Karmagathi, offers a glimpse into his personal and intellectual journey.
Prof Sanu is survived by his wife N Ratnamma and five children—Ranjith, Rekha, Geetha, Seetha, and Harris.
Prof Sanu’s mortal remains will be kept for public homage at his residence on Karakkamuri Road, Ernakulam, from 9 am, and at Ernakulam Town Hall from 10 am. Cremation will be held at 4 pm at the Ravipuram public crematorium. A condolence meeting is scheduled at 5 pm at Ernakulam Town Hall.
