Meenakshi, Kalimuthu to receive Sahitya Akademi awards

CHENNAI: G Meenakshi, the editor of 'Rani' magazine and writer Kalimuthu have been shortlisted for Bala Puraskar Award and Yuva Puraskar Award respectively by the Sahitya Akademi.

While Meenakshi won the award for her children's book 'Mallikavin Veedu' (short stories), Kalimuthu won the award for his poetry collection ‘Thanithirukkum Araligalin Madhiyam’. Yuva Puraskar award is being given to budding writers.

Speaking to DT Next, Meenakshi said that she started writing at the age of 12 years. "After college, I worked in Dinamani, Puthiya Thalaimurai Kalvi, Mangaiyar Malar before joining as editor 'Rani'. I was in the final list for the last two years and finally got selected for the award this year, " she said.

A native of Pollachi near Coimbatore, Meenakshi has written several books such as Poo Malarum Kaalam, Peru Mazhai Kaalam, Gramathu Raatinam, Nee Unnai Arindhaal, Pesum Oviyam, Parisalil Oru Payanam and others. A few days before the award announcement, she released a children's book 'Puthu Avatharangal' (collection of short stories).

She also received various awards such as Sarojini Naidu award, Naradar Award, Mahatma Gandhi Library award and others. Her short stories have been published in Dinamani Kathir, Dinamalar, Kalki, Mangaiyar Malar, Kanaiyazhi and Kavithai Uravu.

The recipients of both the awards will be given a casket containing an engraved copper plaque and a cheque of Rs 50,000 at a special function to be held at a later date and the award function will likely be held on Children's Day on November 14.