Ezhuthachan award – winner, history, previous winners list and important facts
The Ezhuthachan Award (Ezhuthachan Puraskaram) is the highest literary honour presented by the Government of Kerala to recognise outstanding contributions to Malayalam language and literature. Named after Thunchaththu Ramanujan Ezhuthachan, widely regarded as the Father of the Malayalam Language, this prestigious award celebrates writers who have made remarkable contributions to the growth and development of Malayalam literature.
Instituted in 1993, the Ezhuthachan Puraskaram has become one of the most respected literary awards in Kerala. Every year, the award recognises an eminent Malayalam writer whose literary contributions have influenced generations of readers and strengthened the cultural identity of Kerala.
The Ezhuthachan Award 2026 was awarded to renowned Malayalam writer Methil Radhakrishnan in recognition of his valuable contributions to Malayalam literature. The award carries a cash prize of ₹5 lakh, a citation and a plaque.
In this article, we will explore the Ezhuthachan Award 2026 winner, the history of the award, the complete list of previous winners from 1993 to 2026, the importance of the award and other interesting facts that every Malayalam literature enthusiast and competitive examination candidate should know.
Ezhuthachan Award 2026 Winner
Methil Radhakrishnan has been selected for the prestigious Ezhuthachan Puraskaram 2026. The announcement was made on November 1, 2026, in connection with Kerala Piravi Day celebrations.
The award recognises his exceptional contribution to Malayalam literature through poetry, novels, short stories and other literary works. He is considered an important voice in modern Malayalam literature, particularly for his distinctive writing style and innovative literary approach.
According to the jury, Methil Radhakrishnan has introduced new perspectives and sensibilities into Malayalam literature. His writings creatively combine elements of science, philosophy, psychology and artistic imagination.
The jury also highlighted his contribution to renewing the Malayalam language and encouraging readers to explore new literary experiences.
Ezhuthachan Award 2026 – Important Details
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Name of the Award | Ezhuthachan Puraskaram |
| Year | 2026 |
| Winner | Methil Radhakrishnan |
| Malayalam Name | മേതിൽ രാധാകൃഷ്ണൻ |
| Award Instituted | 1993 |
| Presented By | Government of Kerala |
| Award Category | Literary Award |
| Cash Prize | ₹5,00,000 |
| Other Rewards | Citation and Plaque |
| First Award Winner | Sooranad Kunjan Pillai |
| 2026 Award | 34th Ezhuthachan Puraskaram |
Who Is Methil Radhakrishnan?
Methil Radhakrishnan is a well-known Malayalam writer, poet and literary personality who has made significant contributions to contemporary Malayalam literature.
He was born on August 24, 1944, at Puthiyankam in Alathur, Palakkad district, Kerala. His parents were Parakkattu Govinda Menon and Kamala.
He completed his education at Government College, Chittur, and Kerala Varma College, Thrissur.
Interestingly, his professional career was not limited to literature. He worked as the head of the computer division at a Norwegian shipping company and later served as a senior technical writer at the Madras branch of the US-based Nest Software.
Despite his professional background in technology, he continued to contribute to Malayalam literature through his creative writing.
His literary works cover several genres, including novels, poetry, short stories and essays. His writing is recognised for its originality, intellectual depth and unconventional approach.
Famous Works of Methil Radhakrishnan
Some of his notable literary works include:
- Sooryavamsham
- Chuvanna Vidushakarude Anjam Pathi
- Bra
- Penguin
- Dylan Thomasinte Panthu
- Sooryamatsyathe Vivaranikkal
- Methil Kathakal
- Methil Kavithakal
- Romam
- Daivam Manushyan Yanthram
- Albatrossinte Karachil
- Moonnuvara
- Choondunna Eli Choondeli
- Ivide Oru Vavval Illa
- Zebra Crossing
His writings reflect a unique combination of imagination, observation, philosophy and contemporary thought.
The selection of Methil Radhakrishnan for the 2026 Ezhuthachan Award is an important recognition of his long-standing contribution to Malayalam literature.
What Is the Ezhuthachan Award?
The Ezhuthachan Award is the highest literary honour instituted by the Government of Kerala. It is presented to individuals who have made outstanding and lifelong contributions to Malayalam language and literature.
Unlike awards that recognise a single book or a particular literary work, the Ezhuthachan Puraskaram primarily recognises the overall contribution of a writer to Malayalam literature.
The award is named after Thunchaththu Ramanujan Ezhuthachan, one of the most influential figures in the history of Malayalam literature.
The award was instituted in 1993, and the first recipient was the renowned scholar Sooranad Kunjan Pillai.
Over the years, several famous Malayalam writers, poets, critics and literary personalities have received this prestigious recognition.
The award has recognised the contributions of personalities such as Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai, Balamani Amma, O. V. Vijayan, Kamala Surayya, O. N. V. Kurup, Sugathakumari, M. T. Vasudevan Nair, Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri and many others.
Who Was Thunchaththu Ezhuthachan?
Thunchaththu Ramanujan Ezhuthachan is widely known as the Father of the Malayalam Language.
He was a great Malayalam poet and scholar who played a significant role in shaping the Malayalam literary tradition.
His contributions helped establish Malayalam as a powerful language for literary expression, particularly through devotional poetry and the development of a more accessible literary style.
His famous works include:
- Adhyatma Ramayanam Kilippattu
- Mahabharatam Kilippattu
- Harinama Keerthanam
His version of Adhyatma Ramayanam, popularly known as Adhyatma Ramayanam Kilippattu, remains one of the most respected works in Malayalam literature.
The influence of Ezhuthachan on Malayalam language and culture is so significant that he is remembered as the father of modern Malayalam literary tradition.
Kerala Piravi Day, celebrated on November 1 every year, also provides an important occasion to remember the cultural and linguistic heritage of Kerala.
Naming Kerala’s highest literary honour after Ezhuthachan is a tribute to his extraordinary contribution to Malayalam language and literature.
History of the Ezhuthachan Award
The Ezhuthachan Puraskaram was established in 1993 by the Government of Kerala.
The main objective of the award is to recognise writers who have made exceptional contributions to Malayalam literature throughout their literary careers.
Since its introduction, the award has honoured some of the most influential literary figures in Kerala.
The first recipient was Sooranad Kunjan Pillai in 1993. Since then, the award has been presented annually to distinguished Malayalam writers.
The award has recognised contributions across various literary fields, including:
- Malayalam poetry
- Novels and short stories
- Literary criticism
- Essays and research
- Language development
- Cultural and literary studies
The selection is made through a jury comprising prominent literary personalities.
The Ezhuthachan Award has become a symbol of literary excellence and recognition in Kerala.
Ezhuthachan Award Winners List (1993–2026)
Here is the complete year-wise list of Ezhuthachan Award winners from its inception in 1993 to the latest recipient in 2026.
| Year | Award Winner |
|---|---|
| 1993 | Sooranad Kunjan Pillai |
| 1994 | Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai |
| 1995 | Balamani Amma |
| 1996 | K. M. George |
| 1997 | Ponkunnam Varkey |
| 1998 | M. P. Appan |
| 1999 | K. P. Narayana Pisharody |
| 2000 | Pala Narayanan Nair |
| 2001 | O. V. Vijayan |
| 2002 | Kamala Surayya (Madhavikutty) |
| 2003 | T. Padmanabhan |
| 2004 | Sukumar Azhikode |
| 2005 | S. Gupta Nair |
| 2006 | Kovilan (V. V. Ayyappan) |
| 2007 | O. N. V. Kurup |
| 2008 | Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri |
| 2009 | Sugathakumari |
| 2010 | M. Leelavathi |
| 2011 | M. T. Vasudevan Nair |
| 2012 | Attoor Ravi Varma |
| 2013 | M. K. Sanu |
| 2014 | Vishnunarayanan Namboothiri |
| 2015 | Puthussery Ramachandran |
| 2016 | C. Radhakrishnan |
| 2017 | K. Satchidanandan |
| 2018 | M. Mukundan |
| 2019 | Anand (P. Sachidanandan) |
| 2020 | Paul Zacharia |
| 2021 | P. Valsala |
| 2022 | Sethu |
| 2023 | S. K. Vasanthan |
| 2024 | N. S. Madhavan |
| 2025 | K. G. Sankara Pillai |
| 2026 | Methil Radhakrishnan |
The above list includes 34 recipients from 1993 to 2026.
Ezhuthachan Award 2025 Winner
Before the 2026 announcement, the Ezhuthachan Award 2025 was presented to renowned Malayalam poet K. G. Sankara Pillai.
He was selected in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Malayalam poetry over several decades.
K. G. Sankara Pillai is an important personality in contemporary Malayalam poetry. His writings have explored different creative styles and literary approaches.
He has also received several prestigious literary honours, including the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award and the Sahitya Akademi Award.
His selection for the 2025 Ezhuthachan Puraskaram further strengthened his position as one of the significant literary voices in Malayalam.
Ezhuthachan Award 2024 Winner
The Ezhuthachan Award 2024 was presented to N. S. Madhavan, one of the most prominent Malayalam short story writers.
He is known for his distinctive storytelling style, creative imagination and contributions to contemporary Malayalam short fiction.
Some of his famous works include:
- Higuita
- Lanthanbatheriyile Luthiniyakal
- Thiruthu
- Chulaimedile Savangal
His works have received wide appreciation among Malayalam readers and literary critics.
Important Facts About Ezhuthachan Award
The following points are useful for students, PSC candidates, competitive examination aspirants and general knowledge enthusiasts.
- The Ezhuthachan Award is the highest literary honour of the Government of Kerala.
- The award was instituted in 1993.
- The award is named after Thunchaththu Ramanujan Ezhuthachan.
- Thunchaththu Ezhuthachan is known as the Father of the Malayalam Language.
- The first recipient of the Ezhuthachan Award was Sooranad Kunjan Pillai.
- Balamani Amma received the award in 1995.
- O. V. Vijayan received the award in 2001.
- Kamala Surayya received the award in 2002.
- O. N. V. Kurup received the award in 2007.
- Sugathakumari received the award in 2009.
- M. T. Vasudevan Nair received the award in 2011.
- The Ezhuthachan Award 2023 winner was S. K. Vasanthan.
- The Ezhuthachan Award 2024 winner was N. S. Madhavan.
- The Ezhuthachan Award 2025 winner was K. G. Sankara Pillai.
- The Ezhuthachan Award 2026 winner is Methil Radhakrishnan.
- The award carries a cash prize of ₹5 lakh.
- The award also includes a citation and plaque.
Why Is the Ezhuthachan Award Important?
Literature plays an important role in preserving the history, culture, traditions and identity of a society.
Malayalam literature has a rich history, with contributions from generations of poets, novelists, scholars and literary critics.
The Ezhuthachan Award provides an important platform to recognise individuals who have dedicated their lives to developing and enriching the Malayalam language.
The award is also significant because it recognises lifetime literary contributions rather than focusing only on the popularity of a particular book.
Many award recipients have introduced new ideas, writing styles and literary movements that have influenced Malayalam readers and future generations of writers.
The recognition also encourages young writers to explore Malayalam literature and contribute to its development.
In addition, the award helps bring greater attention to Kerala’s literary heritage at the national and international levels.
Ezhuthachan Award and Kerala PSC Examinations
The Ezhuthachan Award is an important topic for Kerala PSC, LDC, LGS, Degree Level Preliminary, Secretariat Assistant, UPSC and other competitive examinations.
Questions related to Malayalam literary awards frequently appear in general knowledge and current affairs sections.
Candidates should particularly remember the following details:
- First Ezhuthachan Award winner – Sooranad Kunjan Pillai.
- Year of institution – 1993.
- Award named after – Thunchaththu Ramanujan Ezhuthachan.
- Highest literary honour of Kerala – Ezhuthachan Puraskaram.
- Ezhuthachan Award 2024 – N. S. Madhavan.
- Ezhuthachan Award 2025 – K. G. Sankara Pillai.
- Ezhuthachan Award 2026 – Methil Radhakrishnan.
- Prize money – ₹5 lakh.
For Kerala PSC aspirants, remembering the latest award winners along with the historical list can be particularly useful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Ezhuthachan Award
1. Who won the Ezhuthachan Award 2026?
Methil Radhakrishnan won the Ezhuthachan Award 2026 for his outstanding contributions to Malayalam literature.
2. Who is the first winner of the Ezhuthachan Award?
Sooranad Kunjan Pillai was the first recipient of the Ezhuthachan Award in 1993.
3. When was the Ezhuthachan Award instituted?
The Ezhuthachan Award was instituted in 1993 by the Government of Kerala.
4. What is the prize money of the Ezhuthachan Award?
The award carries a cash prize of ₹5 lakh, along with a citation and plaque.
5. Who is known as the Father of the Malayalam Language?
Thunchaththu Ramanujan Ezhuthachan is widely known as the Father of the Malayalam Language.
6. Who won the Ezhuthachan Award in 2025?
Renowned Malayalam poet K. G. Sankara Pillai received the Ezhuthachan Award in 2025.
7. Who won the Ezhuthachan Award in 2024?
N. S. Madhavan received the Ezhuthachan Award in 2024.
8. Who won the Ezhuthachan Award in 2023?
S. K. Vasanthan was the recipient of the Ezhuthachan Award in 2023.
9. Who won the Ezhuthachan Award in 2022?
Sethu received the Ezhuthachan Award in 2022.
10. Who was the first woman to receive the Ezhuthachan Award?
Balamani Amma was the first woman to receive the Ezhuthachan Award, in 1995.
11. Who received the Ezhuthachan Award in 2007?
O. N. V. Kurup received the Ezhuthachan Award in 2007.
12. What is the Malayalam name of the Ezhuthachan Award?
The award is known in Malayalam as എഴുത്തച്ഛൻ പുരസ്കാരം (Ezhuthachan Puraskaram).
13. Who received the 34th Ezhuthachan Award?
Methil Radhakrishnan received the 34th Ezhuthachan Award in 2026.
Conclusion
The Ezhuthachan Award is more than just a literary prize. It represents the recognition of outstanding individuals who have dedicated their lives to Malayalam language and literature.
From the first recipient, Sooranad Kunjan Pillai, in 1993 to Methil Radhakrishnan in 2026, the award has honoured several influential literary personalities who have enriched Kerala’s cultural and literary heritage.
The selection of Methil Radhakrishnan for the 2026 Ezhuthachan Puraskaram highlights the importance of innovation, creativity and intellectual depth in Malayalam literature.
As Malayalam literature continues to evolve, the Ezhuthachan Award will remain an important symbol of literary excellence and a source of inspiration for future generations of writers.
Readers and students can use the complete Ezhuthachan Award winners list from 1993 to 2026 as a useful reference for general knowledge, Kerala PSC examinations and other competitive examinations.
