The 80th anniversary of Vaikom Muhammed Basheer’s “Balyakalasakhi”

Eight decades have passed since Majeed and Suhra won the hearts of Keralans with their book “Balyakalasakhi,” written by Vaikom Muhammad Basheer. The book was released in 1944 by the renowned author when she was living in Kolkata.

The classic love tale of Majeed and Suhra was written in English and then translated into Malayalam by Basheer. It’s interesting to note that Basheer served as the model for Majeed, the main character, while Suhra was his childhood buddy and neighbor. At Thalayolaparambu, close to Vaikom, the Mohammaden School served as both of their elementary schools. The book, which has been twice adapted for the big screen, centers on their love story. In addition, it has been translated into eighteen languages, including German, French, and English. One of the most used translations of “Balyakalasakhi” is “Childhood Friend,” by R E Asher. In its honor, a literary prize has also been created.

“Balyakalasakhi” is regarded by many as Basheer’s most well-known book. This book is where the well-known saying “onnum onnum immini balya onnu” (one plus one is slightly larger one) comes. Majeed said, “a bigger one,” in response to math instructor Puthusseri Narayana Pillai’s question on the solution to one plus one.

Basheer’s hometown will celebrate “Balyakalasakhi” on Saturday. The Vaikom Muhammed Basheer Smaraka Samithi and Basheer Amma Malayalam organization are in charge of organizing the festivities. Director of Samithi V T Jalajakumari will kick off the festivities, while vice-chairman Mohan D Babu will serve as chairman. Said Muhammad and Khadeeja, two of the novel’s characters, will also be present.

An unspoken tale of love

The classic love tale of Majeed and Suhra was written in English and then translated into Malayalam by Basheer. It’s interesting to note that Basheer was the model for Majeed, the main character.