A large section of the Malayali population living in different parts of India and abroad can speak Malayalam but is unable to read or write the language. Due to the lack of learning facilities in earlier times, or because English was chosen as the medium of education, many have gradually become distanced from their parental civilisation, culture, traditions and history.This situation is not unique. Many Malayalis living outside Kerala today have only limited knowledge about their ancestry, heritage or even family roots in the state. The story of a renowned international cricketer of Indian origin, who once travelled across India in search of his ancestral links but had to return disappointed, stands as a reminder of how deeply such disconnection can be felt.Malayalam is one of the most developed languages in India, with a rich and scientific script comprising 53 letters, including vowels and consonants, along with five ‘chillukal’ and several special syllables that are rarely found in other languages. The language is also capable of representing the sounds of many other languages, highlighting its linguistic strength and flexibility.For those who now wish to learn Malayalam, it is never too late. Two newly published books aim to make this journey easier by teaching Malayalam through simple English. Departing from conventional methods, these books introduce learners to great Malayalam writers—poets and fiction writers—while also offering insights into Kerala’s heritage, culture, history and civilisation in an easy-to-understand manner. Anyone who has studied up to Standard X in the English medium can, with sincere effort, gain a working knowledge of the language within a month.Those interested in obtaining copies of these books may contact: 98336 77962.
