Thursday, March 14, 2019
Biography of Balamani Amma:
Balamani Amma (February 19, 1909 – September 29, 2004) was a prominent Indian poet and a leading figure in Malayalam literature. She was known for her profound and evocative poetry that explored a range of themes, including love, family, and spirituality.
Here is a brief biography of Balamani Amma:
Early Life:
Birth: Balamani Amma was born as Kamala Das on February 19, 1909, in Punnayurkulam, a village in Thrissur district, Kerala, India.
Family: She was born into a renowned Nair family. Her father, V. M. Nair, was a high-ranking government official.
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Education and Marriage:
Education: Balamani Amma completed her early education in Kolkata (then Calcutta) and later pursued higher education in Kerala.
Marriage: At the age of 19, she married Nalappatt Namboodiri, and the couple had three children, including the famous Malayalam writer Kamala Das.
Literary Career of Balamani Amma:
Debut: Balamani Amma's literary journey began with the publication of her first poem, "Kooppukai" (The Bangle), in 1936.
Evolution as a Poet: Her poetry evolved over the years, reflecting her experiences, emotions, and insights. She explored themes such as love, motherhood, and spirituality.
Notable Works: Some of her notable works include "Nivedyam," "Sopaanam," "Muthassi," and "Naivedyam."
Awards and Recognitions:
Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award: She received the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award in 1954 for her collection of poems titled "Sopaanam."
Asan Prize: Balamani Amma was awarded the Asan Prize in 1967 for her contributions to Malayalam poetry.
Honorary Doctorate: She received an honorary doctorate from the University of Kerala.
Later Life of Balamani Amma:
Loss of Husband: Balamani Amma faced personal challenges, including the loss of her husband in 1949. This period influenced some of her later poetry.
Spiritual Exploration: In her later years, her poetry delved into spiritual themes, reflecting her deep contemplation and philosophical insights.
Legacy:
Influence on Malayalam Literature: Balamani Amma is regarded as one of the most influential poets in Malayalam literature.
Mother of Kamala Das: Her daughter, Kamala Das (later known as Kamala Surayya), also became a renowned writer, contributing significantly to Indian literature.
Death:
Passing: Balamani Amma passed away on September 29, 2004, leaving behind a rich legacy of poetry.
Balamani Amma's poetry is celebrated for its emotional depth, lyrical beauty, and exploration of a wide array of human experiences. Her contributions to Malayalam literature have earned her a lasting place in the cultural and literary history of Kerala.