P. Kesavadev Awards 2026 Honour Excellence in Literature and Healthcare Thiruvananthapuram, June 17, 2026- The 22nd P. Kesavadev Awards celebrated outstanding contributions in the fields of literature and healthcare, honouring individuals whose work has made a lasting impact on society. This year's prestigious honours were presented to renowned Malayalam writer Sri Subhash Chandran, who received the P. Kesavadev Literary Award, and Dr. Thankam Subramonian, who was conferred the P. Kesavadev Diabscreen Kerala Award in recognition of her exceptional contribution to healthcare and humanity.
The distinguished ceremony was inaugurated by the Honourable Chief Minister of Kerala, V.D. Satheesan. The programme commenced with a prayer by Dr. Arun Shankar, Member of the Award Committee. The welcome address was delivered by Dr. Jothydev Kesavadev, Managing Trustee of the P. Kesavadev Trust, who highlighted the continuing relevance of P. Kesavadev's literary and social vision. Eminent literary figure Dr. George Onakkoor introduced the award recipients and reflected on their remarkable achievements and contributions.
A special highlight of the evening was the P. Kesavadev Remembrance Talk delivered by Kerala's Minister for Women and Child Development, Adv. Bindhu Krishna. In her address, she paid tribute to P. Kesavadev's enduring legacy as a writer, social reformer, and champion of the marginalized, emphasizing the continued relevance of his ideas in contemporary society. Copies of P. Kesavadev's celebrated novels Odayil Ninnum and Ayalkkar were presented to the chief guests and distinguished dignitaries. The books were presented to the Honourable Chief Minister by Dr. Krishnadev Jothydev as a mark of respect to the literary legacy of P. Kesavadev and his immense contribution to Malayalam literature.
Sri Subhash Chandran was honoured with the P. Kesavadev Literary Award for his outstanding contribution to Malayalam literature. Through his acclaimed novels, short stories, and literary writings, he has enriched Kerala's literary tradition and established himself as one of the most respected contemporary voices in Malayalam literature.
Dr. Thankam Subramonian received the P. Kesavadev Diabscreen Kerala Award in recognition of her exemplary service to healthcare and society. Beyond her distinguished medical career, she was especially honoured for her extraordinary act of compassion and humanity in donating one of her kidneys to an unknown recipient, a selfless gesture that stands as a powerful example of human kindness, social responsibility, and the highest ideals of medical ethics.
The cultural segment of the programme featured a drama written and directed by Dr. Thomas Mathew. The performance captivated the audience and added a vibrant artistic dimension to the evening's celebrations, complementing the spirit of literature, culture, and social commitment embodied by the P. Kesavadev Awards.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Sunitha Jothydev, who expressed gratitude to the awardees, dignitaries, guests, organisers, and participants for contributing to the success of the event.
Now in its 22nd year, the P. Kesavadev Awards continue to uphold the enduring legacy of P. Kesavadev, one of Kerala's most influential writers and social reformers. By recognising excellence in literature, healthcare, and humanitarian service, the awards remain a respected platform that celebrates individuals whose work inspires society and contributes meaningfully to the common good.
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