Tamil writer Poomani (Pulithurai Manickavasagam) died on 12 July 2026 at age 79. He was known for novels and short stories portraying rural Tamil Nadu and marginalised communities.
Literary profile
- Language and form: Wrote in Tamil; produced novels and short stories rooted in social realism.
- Themes: Agrarian life, caste dynamics, labourers, oral traditions and local dialects.
- Literary standing: Counted among contemporary Tamil prose writers addressing marginalised groups.
Major works and recognition
- Agnyaadi: Novel; awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2014 (Tamil category).
- Vekkai / Asuran: Novel Vekkai adapted into the film Asuran (2019), directed by Vetrimaaran; lead actor Dhanush.
Film and professional links
- Karuvelam Pookkal: Film directed by Poomani for the National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC).
- Place of residence: Associated with Kovilpatti, Tamil Nadu; mortal remains kept at his residence.
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- Sahitya Akademi: National Academy of Letters under the Ministry of Culture; awards cover 24 recognised languages.
- Sahitya Akademi Award: Conferred annually for outstanding literary works in each recognised language.
- NFDC: Public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting for film promotion and production.