(Indian Poet kamala Das Biography, Age, wiki, wife, Family, Children, Name, Date of Birth, Family, Height, Career, Nick Name, Net Worth)
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kamala Das Biography
Kamala Surayya, also known as Kamala Das, Suraiyya, or Madhavikutty, was an influential Indian English poet and a renowned Malayalam novelist from Kerala, India. Known for her unapologetic portrayal of female sexuality and emotional depth, Kamala Das became an iconic voice in Indian literature. Her works are celebrated for their intense and personal style, challenging societal norms and speaking to a generation of readers.
Early Life
Kamala Das was born on March 31, 1934, in Punnayurkulam, Thrissur District, Kerala, into a distinguished literary family. Her father, V.M. Nair, was the managing editor of the Malayalam newspaper Mathrubhumi, and her mother, Nalappatt Balamani Amma, was a celebrated Malayalam poet.
Growing up between Punnayurkulam and Calcutta, Kamala was drawn to writing from an early age, inspired by her mother and her great-uncle, renowned writer Nalappatt Narayana Menon. At the age of 15, she married Madhava Das, a banking official who supported her literary pursuits. Kamala started writing poetry in English and prose in Malayalam, contributing to both Indian and global literary circles.
Personal Life and Family
Kamala Das was a mother to three sons: M.D. Nalapat, Chinnen Das, and Jayasurya Das. Her eldest son, M.D. Nalapat, is married to Princess Lakshmi Bayi of the Travancore Royal House and holds the UNESCO Peace Chair. Despite her unconventional writings, Kamala Das led a complex personal life, which mirrored her turbulent emotional and artistic journeys.
Conversion to Islam
In 1999, at the age of 65, Kamala converted to Islam and adopted the name Kamala Surayya. Her decision was reportedly influenced by her connection with Sadiq Ali, an Islamic scholar and Member of Parliament with the Muslim League. Her conversion attracted significant attention and debate in social circles, with mixed reactions to this personal and spiritual choice. She expressed that her new faith brought her solace and a sense of belonging.
Political Involvement
Though not actively involved in politics earlier, Kamala Das formed the Lok Seva Party to support secularism and protect marginalized women, including orphaned mothers. She contested the 1984 elections unsuccessfully under this political platform, demonstrating her commitment to social causes beyond her literary contributions.
Literary Career and Achievements
Kamala Das’s literary career was prolific, spanning multiple genres, including poetry, short stories, autobiographical works, and essays. Her debut poetry collection, “Summer in Calcutta”, published in 1965, marked a turning point in Indian English poetry. She shifted from the traditionally romantic and idealized love poetry of her time to raw, candid expressions of personal and emotional conflict.
Major Works and Themes
Autobiography – My Story
Her autobiography, My Story, was published in 1973. Originally written in Malayalam, it stirred controversy for its candid exploration of her personal life and emotions, challenging the expectations of women’s roles in Indian society.
Poetry Collections
Some of her well-known poetry collections include:
The Old Playhouse and Other Poems
The Descendants
In her poetry, she explored themes of love, betrayal, identity, and sexuality, giving voice to female experiences that were seldom spoken about openly.
Short Stories
Writing in Malayalam under the name Madhavikutty, she published many stories on themes ranging from societal norms to the lives of women in India. Notable stories include Pakshiyude Manam and Chandana Marangal.
International Recognition
Kamala Das’s work received international attention and has been translated into several languages, including French, Spanish, Russian, German, and Japanese. She was invited to read her poetry at prestigious events, including the Adelaide Writers’ Festival and the Frankfurt Book Fair.
Films Based on Her Stories
Kamala Das’s influence also extended to cinema, with several films inspired by her life and works:
- Neermaathalathinte Pookkal – A Malayalam television film based on her short story, which explores themes of nostalgia and first love.
- Mazha (2000) – Based on her story Nashtappetta Neelambari, this film received multiple awards and portrays a tale of unrequited love and artistic inspiration.
- Aami (2018) – A biographical film about Kamala’s life directed by Kamal and starring Manju Warrier.
- Kadhaveedu (2013) – An anthology film that includes adaptations of her stories.
Kamala Das’s Notable Books
- Ente Katha (My Story) – Her bold autobiography that defied norms and stirred discussion about women’s rights in India.
- The Old Playhouse and Other Poems – A collection that deals with themes of captivity, self-realization, and the journey of womanhood.
- The Descendants – A poetic exploration of love, loss, and existential angst.
- Wages of Love – A collection that reflects on complex human relationships, spirituality, and her conversion to Islam.
Legacy and Influence
Kamala Das has left an indelible mark on Indian literature. Recognized as a “mother of modern Indian English poetry,” she used her voice to challenge stereotypes about women, sexuality, and personal freedom. Her honest expression and bold approach to topics like female desire and societal double standards paved the way for future generations of Indian writers.
In 2009, The New York Times lauded her as one of India’s greatest poets. Her contributions to literature have cemented her as a revolutionary figure in both English and Malayalam literature. Kamala Das passed away on May 31, 2009, leaving behind a legacy of courage, creativity, and cultural influence.
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