BANGALORE: S Jayachandran Nair, a distinguished Malayalam writer and senior journalist, passed away at the age of 85 on Thursday, January 2, at his residence in Bangalore. Known for his immense contributions to Malayalam literature and journalism, Nair’s death leaves a significant void in the cultural landscape. He had been undergoing treatment for age-related health issues and passed away at 2:50 pm, as confirmed by sources close to him.

Nair was a celebrated figure in both journalism and literature. His autobiography, Ente Pradakshina Vazhikal, won the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award in 2012, cementing his place in Malayalam literary history. Additionally, his book Mounaprararthana Pole, a study of the renowned filmmaker G Aravindan, earned him the National Award for Best Book on Cinema in 2018. Nair also made his mark in the film industry by scripting the critically acclaimed movie Piravi, directed by Shaji N Karun, which garnered multiple awards.

Born in Sreevaraham, Thiruvananthapuram, Nair began his career in journalism with the Kaumudi Weekly. He went on to contribute to various notable publications, including Malayalarajyam, Kerala Janatha, and Kerala Kaumudi. He played an instrumental role in shaping Malayalam magazine journalism, particularly through his involvement with Kalakaumudi Weekly and as the editor of Samakalika Malayalam Weekly from 1997 to 2013.

Throughout his illustrious career, Nair was the recipient of several prestigious awards, such as the K Balakrishnan Memorial Award, the M V Pylee Journalism Award, and the C H Mohammed Koya Award, which recognized his outstanding contributions to the fields of journalism and literature.

Some of Jayachandran Nair's most famous works include Rosadalangal, Puzahakalum Kadalum, Azhakalilatha Akaasham, and Unmadathinte Suryakanthikal. He also made a significant impact in the film industry, having written the stories for Swaham and Piravi, both directed by the renowned filmmaker Shaji N Karun.

Jayachandran started his career in journalism at Kaumudi under the leadership of K. Balakrishnan. He later became the editor of Kalakaumudi Weekly, where he worked for many years.  Throughout his career, he received several prestigious awards, including the K. Balakrishnan Memorial Award, KC Sebastian Award, K Vijayaghavan Award, MV Pylee Journalism Award, and CH Muhammad Koya AwardThe Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan, expressed his profound condolences on Nair's passing, describing him as an extraordinary individual whose contributions to literature, cinema, and literary journalism were invaluable. He particularly praised Nair's literary studies, including his insightful work on the film Piravi, which brought him national recognition.

S Jayachandran Nair is survived by his wife and two children, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that continues to inspire generations of writers, journalists, and filmmakers.