Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday honoured Malayalam teacher K.K. Sarasamma and writer M.M. Basheer as part of the Malayalam Language Day and Official Language Week celebrations here.
The Chief Minister said that Ms. Sarasamma teacher and Dr. Basheer have worked with deep dedication for the Malayalam language for several decades.
“As part of Malayalam Day, the government is honouring two distinguished individuals — Ms. Sarasamma teacher, who has been training children and interested adults across generations in Aksharaslokam, Kavyakeli, and Kavyalapanam; and Dr. M.M. Basheer, a noted linguist, critic, and writer,” Mr. Vijayan said while announcing the honours.
Ms. Sarasamma, a native of Elanji, near Muvattupuzha, currently residing in Kochi, started a WhatsApp group a few years ago where poetry enthusiasts engage in literary discussions. She also runs a YouTube channel that promotes Malayalam language and poetry. Both platforms have earned wide appreciation from literature lovers and writers across age groups.
Dr. Basheer has authored over 50 books on Malayalam poetry, short stories, and novels. His notable critical studies include Kumaaranaasaante Rachanaasilppam and Aadhyakalakadhakalum Aadhya Niroopanavum. He received the Puthezhath Raman Menon Award in 1989.
Administrative language
Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister said his government has been implementing several programmes to make Malayalam the sole administrative language of Kerala.
“In recent years, there has been a growing sense of love and interest toward Kerala’s culture and our mother tongue, even among government employees. This interest should be reflected significantly in the functioning of our administrative system,” he said.
Mr. Vijayan noted that Malayalam has been recognised as a classical language at the national level. “But to truly deserve that status, Malayalam must find a prominent place in every sphere of Malayali life — in education, administration, and the judiciary,” he said.
“To ensure the comprehensive advancement of Malayalam, the government has now prepared a new Bill — the Malayalam Language Bill, 2025 — which was passed by the Kerala Assembly on October 10. Once it receives the Governor’s assent, it will become law,” Mr. Vijayan said.
Emphasising the cultural importance of the mother tongue, the Chief Minister said it reflects a people’s historical experience, consciousness, and identity. “It is through the mother tongue that human beings develop linguistic ability, communication skills, learning capacity, and social awareness from childhood,” he said.
Published – November 01, 2025 09:37 pm IST
