Avakasikal
Avakasikal (The Inheritors) is a Malayalam-language novel by Vilasini (M. K. Menon) published in 1980. It runs into 3958 pages, in four volumes, and is the longest novel written in any Indian language.[1][2]
| Author | Vilasini |
|---|---|
| Country | India |
| Language | Malayalam |
| Genre | Novel |
| Publisher | Sahithya Pravarthaka Co-operative Society, Poorna Publications |
Publication date | 1980 |
| Media type | |
| Pages | 3958 |
| Awards | Kendra Sahitya Akademi Award |
Background
Avakasikal is Vilasini's fifth novel and was in the making for about 10 years. It was published by Sahithya Pravarthaka Co-operative Society, world's first writers' co-operative,[3] in 1980 and was soon taken up by critics and readers as an exceptional work of art. It was soon named one of the finest works in Malayalam literature and is now considered as Vilasini's magnum opus. It won numerous awards, prestigious among them including Sahitya Akademi Award and Vayalar Award. After remaining out-of-print for many years, Calicut-based Poorna Publications published the book in 2012.
Plot summary
Set in Malaysia, the novel deals with Velunni Kurup, a septuagenarian self-made millionaire and a host to his greedy relatives who try to defraud him of his wealth. Krishnanunni, a leading lawyer and a close friend of Velunni Kurup is the protagonist of the novel. The novel depicts the minds of about ten persons belonging to four generations with great insight.
Awards
- 1981: Sahitya Akademi Award
- 1981: Odakkuzhal Award
- 1983: Vayalar Award
References
- Limca Book of Records. Bisleri Beverages Limited. 2006. p. 62.
- The Indian Publisher and Bookseller. 30. 1980. p. 129.
- "Evolution of Malayalam Language"
