Malayalam literature is a rich tapestry that reflects Kerala’s cultural and social realities. The literary canon has been shaped by legendary names like Ezhuthachan, Kumaran Asan, M.T. Vasudevan Nair, Kamala Das, and O.V. Vijayan. Over the years, the evolution of Malayalam literature has introduced us to modern Malayali authors whose books have left a mark on the new-gen audience. Here are 6 modern Malayali authors you must check out.
T. D. Ramakrishnan
A Southern Railway Chief Controller turned author, Thathamangalam Damodaran Ramakrishnan was born in Thrissur in 1961. He is the author of two bestsellers — Francis Itty Cora and Sugandhi Enna Andal Devanayaki. T. D. Ramakrishnan also wrote the screenplay for Mammootty’s Bramayugam.
Francis Itty Cora follows the story of Xavier Itty Cora as he investigates the life and secrets of his ancestor Francis Itty Cora, a pepper merchant in 16th-century Kerala, celebrated for being a mathematical genius and cult icon. Sugandhi Enna Andal Devanayaki explores the socio-political unrest and human rights issues in Sri Lanka during the 1990s. Ramakrishnan is known for his postmodernist narratives where he blends history with fiction. He often dives deep into the psyche of his characters, portraying them with realism and nuance.
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Vinoy Thomas
Winner of the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award in 2021 for his novel Puttu, Vinoy Thomas hails from Kannur and works as a school teacher.
Puttu explores the stories of the people of Perumbadi who attempt to break free from the shackles of family, religion, and movement, all while hiding parts of their past. His other novel, Karikkottakkari, narrates the lives of migrants from a village called Karikkottakkari. Vinoy Thomas has also written anthologies like Ramachi and several acclaimed short stories. Churuli, the surreal film by Lijo Jose Pellissery, is based on one of his stories. Vinoy Thomas is celebrated for his raw portrayal of rural life in Kerala and for capturing human relationships entangled in societal norms.
Subhash Chandran
Recognised for his journalistic work with Mathrubhumi, Subhash Chandran is the author of the bestselling novel Manushyanu Oru Amukham. Set in the fictional town of Thachankkara, the story follows Jitendran, a member of the Nair community, spanning the generations of his uncle, father, and himself. The novel explores the fragility of human nature and the evolution of society.
Subhash Chandran has received multiple awards, including the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award and the Vayalar Award. His debut short story collection, Ghadikarangal Nilaykkunna Samayam, was critically acclaimed and has seen film adaptations — notably Laptop, based on his story Parudeesa Nashtam. His narratives are often philosophical, reflecting on human existence.
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S. Girish Kumar
Holding various degrees in Malayalam literature, S. Girish Kumar is recognised for his contributions to folklore and linguistics. Hailing from Changanassery, his novels explore Kerala’s society within the context of cultural practices and traditions.
His notable novel Alinganam follows the life of Ochira Velukutty and sheds light on the role and treatment of women in society. His other novel, Thottichamari, portrays the complexities of rural life and the social structure through characters struggling for existence between nature and society. Beyond fiction, his work includes publishing and presenting papers based on Malayalam literature. He received the Edassery Award for Criticism in 2016.
K. R. Meera
A journalist turned author, K.R. Meera is one of the most powerful contemporary voices in Malayalam literature today. Born in Kollam, her unapologetic storytelling is known for its emotional intensity and bold themes. Aarachar — her magnum opus — tells the story of India’s first female executioner, blending history, myth, and gender politics. The novel won the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award and gained international recognition, being shortlisted for the DSC Prize for South Asian Literature.
Her other works like The Gospel of Yudas and Yellow Is the Colour of Longing deal with trauma, betrayal, and state violence. Meera’s writing blurs the line between poetic beauty and brutal realism, with characters that are raw, flawed, and deeply human.
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Benyamin
Benyamin became more of a household name with the success of the film Aadujeevitham, based on his novel of the same name. Originally from Pathanamthitta, Benyamin draws inspiration from his experiences as an expat in Bahrain. Aadujeevitham tells the story of Najeeb, a Malayali migrant trapped in the Saudi desert, who slowly begins to identify with goats in his isolation.
His other novels — Jasmine Days, Al Arabian Novel Factory, and Manthalirile 20 Communist Varshangal — showcase his range in themes, from political thrillers to experimental fiction. Jasmine Days follows a woman caught in the turbulence of the Jasmine Revolution in Tunisia. Benyamin’s strength lies in humanising the marginalised — whether migrant workers or forgotten ideologies — through compelling and evocative storytelling.
And that’s my list of modern Malayali authors who deserve space in your bookshelf. Did I miss your favourite? Let me know in the the comments section!
