Firebrand writer Jayakanthan, considered a colossus in Tamil literature, died here on Wednesday night after a prolonged illness. He was 81 and is survived by wife, two daughters, and a son. He won both the Jnanpith and Sahitya Akademi Awards.
Jayakanthan significantly enriched modern Tamil literature by portraying the lives of those on the fringes of society.
And he shocked the same society with his nonconformist views, often questioning long-held views on women and chastity.
Sri Lankan Tamil literary critic K. Sivathamby used to say that one of the greatest contributions of Jayakanthan was the change he brought about in the “process of thinking” in the Tamil literary world.
“He wrote about the subjects not explored by others. He identified the agon , a literary device in Greek tragedy indicating conflict, in the lives of the subaltern and popularised it,” he said.
His novels Sila Nerangalil Sila Manithargal , Oru Nadigai Nadagam Paarkiral , Yaarukkaga Azhudhaan and Cinemavukku Pona Chithalu were adapted as films.
Jayakanthan passes away - The Hindu
Tamil novelist, short story writer and essayist Jayakanthan passed away following a prolonged illness on Wedensday night at the age of 81 and is survived by wife, two daughters and a son. He won both the Jnanpith and Sahitya Akademi Awards. Since communist philosophy was close to his heart, all his stories depicted the plight of the common man.
Jayakanthan no more
Well known Tamil writer and Jnanpith awardee D. Jayakanthan passed away on Wednesday. The 80-year old writer has not been keeping well since the last few months.
Known for his work 'Sila Nerangalil Sila Manidhargal' among others, Jayakanthan was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1972. Called as 'JK' among novelists and literary enthusiasts, Jayakanthan was awarded Jnanpith Award in 2002.
In 2009, he received 'Padma Bhushan'. In honour of his translation works of Russian novelist Pushkin, the Russian government also awarded him the 'Order of Friendship' in 2011.
Noted Tamil writer Jayakanthan passes away : South, News - India Today
