“Asuravithu” is a renowned Malayalam novel written by M. T. Vasudevan Nair, first published in 1962. It is one of the significant literary works that explores themes of social and religious conflict, focusing on the life of Govindankutty, the youngest son of a proud Nair tharavadu (family) in a fictional Kerala village called Kizhakkemuri.
The novel delves into Govindankutty’s struggles trapped between social injustice, societal changes, and his conscience.
The story reflects the transformation of traditional Nair families and social customs under changing times, highlighting the emotional and cultural turmoil faced by the protagonist. The novel is considered one of M.T. Vasudevan Nair’s finest works and is a vivid depiction of Kerala’s social fabric during that era.
Notably, “Asuravithu” was adapted into a Malayalam film in 1968, directed by A. Vincent with a screenplay by M.T. Vasudevan Nair himself. The film starred Prem Nazir as Govindankutty.
The novel has been praised for its rich language and deep social commentary, and it remains a classic in Malayalam literature, often regarded as a seminal work in the portrayal of Kerala’s traditional family and societal changes.