Priya A.S., an acclaimed writer, has been honored with the Sahitya Akademi Children’s Literature Award 2023 in the Malayalam language for his novel “Perumazhayathe Kunjithalukal” (The Children Who Were Never Withered). This prestigious award recognizes Priya A.S.’s exceptional talent and creativity in the field of children’s literature.
Recognizing Priya A.S.’s Literary Excellence:
Priya A.S.’s talent and contribution to children’s literature have been widely acknowledged. In 2020, she received the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award for Children’s Literature for the same novel, “Perumazhayathe Kunjithalukal.” This dual recognition underscores her ability to captivate young readers with her storytelling skills.
Perumazhayathe Kunjithalukal:
A Tale of Resilience and Unity: “Perumazhayathe Kunjithalukal” is set against the backdrop of the devastating 2018 Kerala floods. The novel beautifully captures the strength, resilience, and unity displayed by children from diverse backgrounds during the calamity. Priya A.S.’s firsthand experience in the relief camps set up by the Department of Instrumentation of Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) in Kochi during the floods inspired her to write this poignant tale.
The Significance of Sahitya Akademi Bal Sahitya Puraskar:
The Sahitya Akademi Bal Sahitya Puraskar is a highly prestigious literary award for children’s literature in India. Presented by the Sahitya Akademi, it recognizes outstanding contributions to the field and encourages authors to create exceptional works for young readers. The award carries a cash prize and plaque, further motivating authors and promoting the growth of children’s literature in the country.
Selection Process and Jury Members:
The selection of the winners for the Sahitya Akademi Bal Sahitya Award involves a thorough evaluation by a panel of experts. For the Malayalam language category, the jury members for the 2023 award were Dr. Paul Manalil, BS Rajeev, and Mundoor Sethumadhavan. They carefully reviewed and assessed the ten recommended books before choosing the deserving recipient.
Encouraging the Growth of Children’s Literature:
The Sahitya Akademi Bal Sahitya Award plays a crucial role in promoting children’s literature and recognizing the efforts of talented authors. By honoring exemplary works, the award not only encourages authors to continue creating meaningful content but also fosters a love for reading among young readers.