KESAVADEV AWARDS


P.Kesavadev Trust was formed in the year 2001 in memory of late P.Kesavadev, the world renowned novelist, short story writer, social reformer, freedom fighter and eloquent orator whose name and works are closely linked to his history of evolution of modern Kerala.

This is a charity organization actively involved in literacy activities, promoting and preserving health and social and mental well-being of the economically backward population in the state of Kerala and elsewhere.

The major annual literacy event organised by P.Kesavadev Trust since 2005 is the P.Kesavadev Awards. There are two awards: P.Kesavadev Literary Award and P.Kesavadev Diabscreen Kerala Award (separate awards committes are responsible for the selection).

P KESAVADEV LITERARY AWARD


Instituted in memory of the legendary Malayalam novelist, social reformer, and freedom fighter P. Kesavadev (1904–1983), the award honors his enduring contributions to literature and society. Recognized as one of the pioneers of modern Malayalam prose, Kesavadev broke away from the conventional styles of his time and introduced bold themes that reflected social realities, human struggles, and progressive ideals.

The P. Kesavadev Literary Award is presented annually to outstanding writers whose works embody creativity, originality, and a deep social consciousness. Over the years, the award has become a mark of distinction, celebrating both established and emerging voices in Indian literature.

Through this recognition, the award not only preserves the legacy of P. Kesavadev but also encourages new generations of writers to continue exploring truth, humanity, and social justice through their words.

Each award includes a cash prize of Rs. 50,000/-, a sculpted artwork by the renowned artist Shri B.D. Dathan, and a certificate of recognition.

P KESAVADEV DIABSCREEN KERALA AWARD


The P Kesavadev Diabscreen Kerala Award is a highly prestigious recognition instituted to honor consistent efforts in imparting public health education. The award seeks to encourage individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions in raising awareness and promoting healthier lifestyles in society.

Each award includes a cash prize of Rs. 50,000/-, a sculpted artwork by the renowned artist Shri B.D. Dathan, and a certificate of recognition.

Criteria


The highly prestigious P Kesavadev Diabscreen Kerala Award has been instituted to recognize consistent efforts in imparting public health education.

You may apply if you feel that the following criteria are fulfilled:

  • Public health education efforts for more than a decade

  • The applicant need not be a medical professional

  • The health education efforts should be based on scientifically proven facts and non-controversial

  • The person should be active in his profession and have his presence known through print/visual/social media

In the previous years, award winners were selected based on specific criteria by the award committee and it can be an exceptionally good effort or work, for eg: a drama to promote awareness on dengue, magic to promote awareness on diabetes etc. These were chosen by the award committee to recognize and encourage distinguished efforts.

The award committee has been receiving hundreds of entries every year from authors of articles and books on some illnesses, addictions or disasters. It is to be noted that this alone doesn't qualify for award unless it is unique, currently relevant and is being widely promoted in any one of the media.

We invite entries from healthcare professionals, nurses, journalists, artists etc. who believe that they are directly or indirectly involved in consistent and highly effective efforts in public health education.

Email: kesavadevtrust@gmail.com

P. KESAVADEV LITERARY AWARDS COMMITTEE


Dr. George Onakur
Committee Chairman
Smt.Seethalekshmi Dev
Chairperson
Mrs. Sunitha Jothydev
Secretary
Mr. Desamangalam Ramakrishnan
Convenor
Mr. Vijayakrishnan
Award Committee Member

P. KESAVADEV DIABSCREEN KERALA AWARDS COMMITTEE


Dr.Jothydev Kesavadev
Managing Trustee
Dr. Thomas Mathew
Convenor
Dr. Balagopal P G
Committee Chairman
Dr.Arun Shankar
Award Committee Member
Ms.Gopika Krishnan
Award Committee Member
Dr.Krishnadev Jothydev
Award Committee Member

P. Kesavadev Literary Award – Winners

2025 – Shashi Tharoor | 2024 – Adoor Gopalakrishnan | 2023 – Desamangalam Ramakrishnan | 2022 – P. K. Rajasekharan | 2021 – Thomas Jacob | 2020 – Vijayakrishnan | 2019 – M. V. Pillai | 2018 – Prabha Varma | 2017 – Sugathakumari | 2016 – G. N. Panicker | 2015 – M. K. Sanu | 2014 – Perumbadavam Sreedharan | 2013 – O. N. V. Kurup | 2012 – P. Govinda Pillai | 2011 – C. Radhakrishnan | 2010 – M. P. Veerendrakumar | 2009 – George Onakkoor | 2008 – Jose Panachippuram | 2007 – John Samuel | 2006 – P. Mohanan | 2005 – Dr. Indrababu

Diabscreen Kerala Award – Winners

2025 – Dr. Banshi Saboo | 2024 – Dr. C. J. John | 2023 – Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips | 2022 – Preetu Nair | 2021 – Dr. Shashank R. Joshi 2020 – Dr. Arun B Nair 2019 – Kerala Type 1 Diabetic Welfare Society 2018 – Mohanlal 2017 – Dr. Gopinath Muthukad 2016 – Dr. Rajasekharan Nair 2015 – Dr. P G Balagopal 2014 – Dr. K. R. Sunil Kumar 2013 – Thomas Mathew 2012 – Dr. Santhosh Sisupal 2011 – Dr. David Mendosa 2010 – Dr. B. Padmakumar 2009 – Dr. B. Ekbal 2008 – C. Renjith 2007 – Dr. Roshan Bijilee 2006 – Pushpa. M