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Kalki Krishnamurthy: Exploring the Life and Works of a Prolific Indian Writer

Kalki Krishnamurthy, born on September 9, 1899, in the village of Puttamangalam in Tamil Nadu, India, was a renowned Indian writer. He was a multifaceted personality who contributed significantly to the fields of literature, journalism, and film-making. This article delves into the life, literary works, and lasting impact of Kalki Krishnamurthy.

Table of Contents

Early life and education.

Kalki Krishnamurthy was born into a conservative Brahmin family. His father, Ramasamy Iyer, was a scholar and landowner, while his mother, Vedavalli Ammal, was a pious and educated woman. From a young age, Krishnamurthy showed a keen interest in literature and exhibited exceptional storytelling skills.

Journalism and Early Writing Career

Krishnamurthy’s writing journey began with his involvement in journalism. He joined the popular Tamil newspaper “Swadesamitran” and quickly rose through the ranks due to his exceptional writing prowess. His journalistic career provided him with a platform to express his thoughts on social issues and kindled his passion for storytelling.

The Magnum Opus – “Ponniyin Selvan”

One of Kalki Krishnamurthy’s most significant contributions to Tamil literature is his magnum opus, “Ponniyin Selvan.” This epic historical novel set in the Chola dynasty explores the political intrigue, romance, and battles of the era. The intricately woven plot, rich character development, and vivid descriptions of the period have made “Ponniyin Selvan” a timeless masterpiece.

Other Notable Works

Apart from “Ponniyin Selvan,” Krishnamurthy authored several other remarkable novels and short stories. Some of his notable works include “ Sivagamiyin Sabatham ,” “ Parthiban Kanavu ,” and “ Alai Osai .” Each of these works showcases his storytelling brilliance and his ability to capture the essence of various historical periods.

Social and Political Activism

Kalki Krishnamurthy was not only a prolific writer but also an ardent social and political activist. He used his writings as a medium to voice his concerns about social inequalities, caste discrimination, and political issues prevalent during his time. Through his works, he aimed to bring about positive change and promote harmony in society.

Literary Style and Contributions

Krishnamurthy’s writing style was characterized by its simplicity, vivid imagery, and engaging narratives. He had a unique ability to transport readers to different time periods and make them emotionally invested in his stories. His contributions to Tamil literature expanded the scope and popularity of historical fiction in the region.

Recognition and Awards

In recognition of his literary achievements, Kalki Krishnamurthy received numerous accolades during his lifetime. He was honored with the Sahitya Akademi Award, one of India’s highest literary honors, for his outstanding contributions to Tamil literature. His works continue to be celebrated and revered by readers and critics alike.

Legacy and Influence

Kalki Krishnamurthy’s impact on Tamil literature and Indian culture is immeasurable. His novels have been translated into multiple languages and continue to captivate readers across generations. Many contemporary writers and filmmakers draw inspiration from his works, further cementing his legacy as a visionary storyteller.

10 Famous Tamil Writers: Explore the Literary Heritage

Kalki Krishnamurthy’s journey from a small village in Tamil Nadu to becoming one of India’s most celebrated writers is a testament to his talent and determination. His literary contributions, social activism, and timeless narratives have left an indelible mark on Tamil literature. Today, his works continue to inspire and entertain readers, ensuring that his legacy remains alive.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Where was kalki krishnamurthy born.

Kalki Krishnamurthy was born in the village of Puttamangalam in Tamil Nadu, India.

What is Kalki Krishnamurthy’s most famous work?

Kalki Krishnamurthy’s most famous work is the historical novel “Ponniyin Selvan.”

What awards did Kalki Krishnamurthy receive ?

Kalki Krishnamurthy received the Sahitya Akademi Award for his contributions to Tamil literature.

What was Kalki Krishnamurthy’s writing style?

Kalki Krishnamurthy’s writing style was characterized by simplicity, vivid imagery, and engaging narratives.

How has Kalki Krishnamurthy influenced Indian literature?

Kalki Krishnamurthy’s works have had a significant influence on Tamil literature and have inspired many contemporary writers and filmmakers.

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‘Kalki’ Krishnamurthy’s biography in English released

It will also provide in depth information on india in the last century, says k. chandru .

Updated - April 03, 2022 01:24 am IST

Published - April 03, 2022 01:16 am IST - CHENNAI

Former Judge of the Madras High Court K. Chandru (centre), journalist Maalan during the launch of the biography ‘Kalki Krishnamurthy: His Life and Times’ by his grand daughter and playwright Gowri Ramnarayanan, in Chennai on Saturday, April 2, 2022. | Photo Credit: M. KARUNAKARAN

The English translation of the biography of journalist and writer Kalki Krishnamurthy titled ‘Kalki Krishnamurthy: His Life and Times’ by his granddaughter and playwright Gowri Ramnarayanan, was released at an event organised by the Chennai International Centre on Saturday.

Releasing the first copy, former judge of the Madras High Court K. Chandru said that the book would be a blessing for many of the present generation, who sought to read in English. It would also provide in depth information on India in the last century. Detailing the many character traits of Kalki, Mr. Chandru said he was fearless and though he had many friends in the Congress, he did not defend its policies but opposed them when he had to. His film Thyaga Bhumi, was perhaps the only one that was banned by the police, since there was no Censor Board then.

Journalist Maalan said that writing biographies was not an easy task because it’s just not putting things in a chronological order. One should have the bent of mind for details and seive facts from fiction and should understand the personality of the person about whom the biography was being written. Sundha (M.R.M. Sundaram) whose work had been translated by Ms. Ramnarayanan, had gone about his work very meticulously and done a remarkable job ensuring the life and times of Kalki were recorded for posterity. On the translation, he said that Ms. Ramnarayanan had matched Sundha’s work and style. Kalki’s life was deeply embedded in the culture of south India, he said, adding that it was not easy to translate Tamil into English because it meant translating a culture into another.

Ms. Ramnarayanan said that during the lockdown, her sister Rukmini and brother Shankar had made her read out Sundha’s work on Zoom daily. That reading made her aware of his remarkable journey and how it was a sweeping chronicle of the country at that time and that it had to be shared with people who did not have access to it. “Kalki was lucky to have someone like Sundha to write his biography. The method he devised to convey the facts is amazing. He has used a zillion sources,” she said.

Actors V. Balakrishnan and Yohan Chacko read out passages from the book and Carnatic vocalist Sikkil Gurucharan sang songs by Kalki.

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Kalki Krishnamurthy

Novelist, film story contributor, 1899 – 1954, who was kalki krishnamurthy.

Kalki was the pen name of R. Krishnamurthy, a noted Tamil freedom fighter, social crusader, novelist, short story writer, journalist, humorist, satirist, travel writer, script-writer, poet, film & music critic, Indian independence activist and connoisseur of the arts writer from Tamil Nadu, India. He derived his pen name from the suffixes of his wife name Kalyani and his name Krishnamurthy in Tamil form கல்யாணி and கிருஷ்ணமூர்த்தி as Kalki "Kalki avatar", the tenth and last avatar of the Hindu God Vishnu. His writings includes over 120 short stories, 10 novelettes, five novels, three historical romances, editorial and political writings and hundreds of film and music reviews.

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Who is Kalki Krishnamurthy, the author of Ponniyin Selvan

In his career, kalki krishnamurthy penned five novels, 10 novellas and 120 short stories..

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Works of Kalki (R Krishna Murthy) and the freedom struggle

C. Rajagopalachari (played an influential role in Kalki’s life)

Known for his well-known historical novels like Ponniyin Selvan , R Krishna Murthy, also known by his pen name Kalki is one of the most influential Tamil writers ever. He was born on 9th September 1899 in Puthamangalam village near Thanjavur in Mayiladuthurai district, Tamil Nadu on the banks of river Ponni or Kaveri. After the untimely death of his father, Ramaswamy Ayyar, Krishna Murthy was adopted and raised by Ayyaswamy Ayyar. It was under Ayyaswamy's guidance that he was introduced to nationalist ideas through booklets containing poems and nationalist works by Subrahmania Bharati. This sparked a great interest in Krishna Murthy and ultimately went on to join the National College High School in Tiruchirapalli, where he received a scholarship. The school introduced him to a bulk of nationalist literature shaping his views on the struggle for freedom.

When Mahatma Gandhi started the non-cooperation movement in 1921, Krishna Murthy was inspired by him. Responding to his call to join the movement, Krishna Murthy left school and dedicated himself to constructive activities like spinning and weaving of Khaddar and propagation of Gandhian ideas. When Mahatma Gandhi visited Trichy during his tour of South India in September 1921, Krishna Murthy went to visit him and sang Bharati’s patriotic song and presented Gandhi with the money he had collected from the audience. Mahatma Gandhi recognized his efforts and described him as an Acha Desh Sevak (a good servant of the nation). However, Krishna Murthy’s involvement in nationalist activities resulted in his arrest and imprisonment for delivering an anti-British speech in Karur. During his one-year imprisonment, Krishna Murthy wrote his first novel, Vimala which was published in Swatantram Magazine, edited by V Ramaswamy Ayyangar, thus starting his writing career.

Throughout his life, Krishna Murthy authored a wide range of literary works, including short stories, novels, pamphlets, articles, satires, songs, biographies, and film scripts and used many pen names, Kalki being one of them. Upon his release from prison, Kalki joined the Congress office in Trichy, where he began writing pamphlets to support the nationalist cause. His writing skills caught the attention of prominent leaders such as Rajagopalachari, who admired these pamphlets. Later, C. Rajagopalachari (Rajaji) became one of the influential figures in Kalki’s life.  During the Civil Disobedience movement in 1930, he wrote four pamphlets that were distributed extensively throughout Tamil Nadu, spreading the voice of resistance against British rule. He also actively participated in the Salt Satyagraha movement, engaging in picketing, which resulted in his second arrest and six-month imprisonment.

Writing for Navasakthi , a nationalist magazine edited by Thiru V Kalyanasundaram, Kalki published political columns and a Tamil translation of Mahatma Gandhi's autobiography in a series, which was later compiled into a book called Satya Sodanai . His association with the renowned magazine Ananda Vikatan founded by S S Vasan commenced while he stayed with his wife at Rajaji’s Gandhi Ashram at Tiruchengode, and he eventually became its editor. Besides, Kalki also edited Vimochanam from August 1929, a Tamil magazine founded by Rajaji to advocate for the prohibition of alcohol.

When the Second World War commenced, it brought a lot of turbulence in the Indian political scenario, with Congress staunchly opposing India’s involvement in the war and British war efforts in India. Leaders like Nehru, Vinoba Bhave and Rajaji were arrested during this period. Kalki wrote editorials in Ananda Vikatan condemning the arrest of Nehru and Vinoba Bhave. In December 1940, he wrote another special article condemning the arrest of Rajaji. Fearing British persecution, Kalki was forced to resign from the magazine by its owner Vasan. Eventually, Kalki was arrested for a third time on 21st January 1941 and was imprisoned for three months for delivering an anti-war speech. Upon his release, Kalki started another magazine and named it after his pen name Kalki , where he published most of his prominent novels in a series.

Kalki was one of the first Tamil writers to write stories on freedom struggle, revolutions and sacrifices of patriots. One of his most celebrated novels is Thiyaga Bhoomi (Land of Sacrifice). It was published as a series in Ananda Vikatan between 1938 and 1939. It revolves around Sambu Shastri, a Brahmin who was expelled from his caste and society for sheltering a Dalit in his house. Subsequently, Sambu Shastri moves to Madras, where he gets involved in programs to eradicate untouchability. Inspired by nationalism and Mahatma Gandhi, he wore Khaddar and led processions. The novel also portrays the transformation of Savitri, Sambu Shastri's daughter, from an illiterate village girl into a patriot and social reformer. The Congress and its ideals are recurring themes in this novel. The novel also portrays the reconciliation of an adulterous husband with his wife after he joins her in picketing and national movement and gets arrested. In 1939, the novel Thiyaga Bhoomi was adapted into a movie directed by Krishnaswamy Subrahmaniam, who was a pioneering director in Tamil cinema with the same title. Thiyaga Bhoomi movie also featured a song named Desai Sevai Seyya Vaareer , which was co-written by Kalki and shows the procession and march of patriots wearing Gandhi caps. Thiyaga Bhoomi ’s release coincided with a Congress Provincial Ministry in Madras under C. Rajagopalachari, who made several relaxations on the censorship of Cinema. The movie received great appreciation from the nationalists as well as the public in general. Despite its success at the box office, the British government banned the film after running for 22 weeks on grounds of sedition. They accused Thiyaga Bhoomi of being a Congress propaganda film. Despite the ban by the British, the movie makers, including Kalki and the others, exhibited the film for free at Madras Gaiety Theatre. The event which witnessed great participation, ultimately led to a brutal lathi charge by the police against the audience inside the theatre.

Another significant work by Kalki is the novel Alai Osai , which delves into the communal clashes during the pre-independence era in North India between 1934 and 1948. Released in serial form from March 1948 for eighteen months, it depicted India's journey towards freedom, while also highlighting the horrors of partition and the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi.

However, Kalki is most renowned for his historical novels. Parthiban Kanavu (Dream of Parthiban) was one such novel written by him on the Pallava dynasty, published as a series in Kalki Magazine in 1941 and later as a book in 1943. It depicted the story of Parthiban, a Chola king who refuses to pay tribute to his Pallava overlord, Narasimha and aspires to unify his country and restore its long-lost golden age. This aspiration for unity and the fight against oppression drew a parallel to India's struggle against colonial rule. Parthiban Kanavu was a sequal to Sivakamiyin Sabatham (Vow of Sivakami). The latter was published in Kalki Magazine as a series in 1944. In his introduction to Parthiban Kanavu , Kalki beautifully describes the richness of Tamil culture through the evocative portrayal of Mahabalipuram, a symbol of Pallava architecture.

The rediscovery of India's past played a crucial role during the freedom struggle. Numerous historical writings and archaeological discoveries were done during this period. Kalki’s historical novels played a crucial role in this by reviving India’s glorious past and disseminating a sense of national pride. Through these novels, Kalki also positioned Indian culture asserting its greatness as unique, glorious, and separate from Western influence.

In addition to these novels, Kalki has written many short stories on the backdrop of the freedom struggle. His story The Execution revolves around a Judge, who makes an unjust verdict based on a false witness testimony orchestrated by British Police, revealing the injustices inflicted by British bureaucracy on people. His Bhavani B.A., B.L. portrays the ideas of patriotism and sacrifice, while The Guest of Police and Flower Palanquin deals with the theme of extreme violence inflicted by the British police upon the Indian population. The Roaring Sea is a story written about freedom fighter V. O. Chidambaram Pillai, his imprisonment, and how the revolutionaries avenged his arrest. The Life Eternal was yet another story inspired by the Indian National Army and Subhash Chandra Bose. In Incognito , Kalki portrays the plights of a revolutionary who fought for the freedom of the country and his visit to his house to meet his wife and parents in disguise to avoid getting caught by the British police. In Kanayarhiyin Kanavu , Kalki portrays the story of a young man who embarks on a journey to develop his village to improve the life of the villagers.

Kalki’s writing encapsulates the spirit of the freedom struggle and serves as a testament to his dedication towards India's independence. His works and life were deeply influenced by the freedom struggle and Gandhian ideologies. Even though his name is infamous in contemporary popular culture for his novels like Ponniyin Selvan , Kalki has made bigger contributions to the freedom struggle of India, which remains unappreciated. Through his writings, Kalki not only entertained readers but also inspired them to embrace nationalism and fight against colonial oppression, thus standing as a glorious chapter in the Indian Independence movement. 

A still from Thiyaga Bhoomi film

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Kalki Krishnamurthy Biography

R. Krishnamurthy was a noted Tamil writer with the pen name, Kalki. Apart from being a noted writer who writes novels, short stories, screenplays and travelogues, he was also a freedom fighter, social crusader, Indian independence activist, music critic and connoisseur of the arts writer. Apart from contributing 120 short stories, 10 novelettes, five novels and three historical romances to Tamil literature, he has also penned a few political writings and film and music reviews. Kalki derived his pen name from the suffixes of his wife name Kalyani and his name Krishnamurthy in Tamil form.

Krishnamurthy was born to a poor accountant in Puttamangalam village in the old Tanjore district on September 9, 1899. After attaining primary education from his village school, he joined National High School in Trichinopoly. But in response to Gandhi’s call for non-cooperation movement in 1921, he left studies and joined Indian national Congress. In 1923 he joined as a sub-editor in Navasakthi, a Tamil periodical and worked till 1928. Later he stayed with C. Rajagopalachari at the Gandhi Ashram, Salem to edit Vimochanam, a Tamil journal. In 1931, he was imprisoned for six months.

Next year he joined Ananda Vikatan, a humour weekly. He wrote under the pen names, "Kalki", "Ra. Ki", "Tamil Theni", "Karnatakam" and many more. In 1941 he left Ananda Vikatan and rejoined the freedom struggle movement. Very soon he got arrested and once released, started Kalki magazine and remained its editor until his death on December 5, 1954.

Kalki's historical romances captured the hearts of thousands of readers with the background of Pallavas and Imperial Cholas. His serialised stories included sudden twists and turns. Among his novels, Kalki’ favourite is Alai Osai. Thyaga Bhoomi and Kalvanin Kadali are his social dramas.

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Updated: December 30, 2013

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Kalki: The Revolutionary Writer Behind PS 1

Gowri Ramnarayan explores the world of Kalki Krishnamurthy whose magnificent novel Ponniyin Selvan has inspired Mani Ratnam's latest film PS I .

Based on the cult Tamil novel Ponniyin Selvan , film-maker Mani Ratnam's PS I has triggered a new interest in its author, Kalki Krishnamurthy (1899-1954).

True, Kalki enjoyed celebrity status in his lifetime, and continues to have fan associations whose sole business is to discuss his writings.

Many of them visit the sculpture garden in Mahabalipuram, determined to see the exact spot where Sivakami danced.

If you say, 'But she is a fictional character in Kalki's novel Sivakamiyin Sapatham !, they will tell you, 'She is real enough for us.'

Others undertake tours to places mentioned in Ponniyin Selvan . These 'pilgrims' will declare that a dilapidated temple in a forgotten nook in Thanjavur town was built a thousand years ago by the Chola emperor Rajaraja I (947 CE-1014 CE), to memorialise his stepmother Mandakini, who is nothing but a figment of Kalki's imagination.

All these admirers are Tamil born. But now, many who struggle to pronounce 'Kalki' and ' Ponniyin Selvan ' want to know more about this iconic Tamil writer.

Born in a poor family in a Thanjavur village, young Krishnamurthy quit school to answer the Mahatma's call for non-cooperation with the British Raj. In no time at all, he found himself in Navasakti , edited by Ondependence activist and trade unionist T V Kalyanasundara Mudaliar, writing a serialised translation of the Mahatma's My Experiments with Truth .

Next came a stint with Vimochanam , C Rajagopalachari's anti liquor magazine. All his life, Kalki was to remain Rajaji's faithful lieutenant and campaigner, even when the leader was attacked by members of his own party.

Kalki's allegiance to his lifelong mentor invited antagonism, and even led to his creative achievements being denigrated.

Kalki became a celebrated writer/editor when he joined Ananda Vikatan . He added to the magazine's stature and sales. His writings began to launch debates.

As with the novel Tyagabhumi , the land of sacrifice, where the author condemned patriarchy and gender discrimination.

Tyagabhumi became a sensation on several counts. The text was illustrated with movie stills, as its filming and serialisation went hand-in-hand.

The film was banned by the British government for sedition.

The novel was slammed for blasphemy.

The heroine, ironically named Savitri, declares that she would pay alimony to her husband rather than live with him, saying, 'I will make any sacrifice for freedom -- not for slavery.' Such sentiments could not but arouse outrage in the 1930s.

Kalki delighted in every polemical dispute -- socio-political or literary -- but held no grudges.

He believed that his opponents had as much right as he did to express the views they held.

He supported 'Periyar' E V Ramaswamy Naicker's right to propagate atheism and hailed DMK chieftain C N Annadurai as the 'Bernard Shaw of Tamil Nadu'.

He could also write a moving obituary for the master writer Pudumaipitthan who had unmercifully pilloried Kalki as a plagiarist.

Kalki said, 'A writer who shaped marvellous works of literature in his short stories, Pudumaipitthan probed those aspects of society where the gangrene had set in... And yet, a pulse of humour runs through his writing, making us exclaim, "Oh what an insane world it is!"'

Kalki crafted a style of his own -- fluent, limpid, frothing with trademark humour.

But in the high moments, his prose throbs with lyrical images, onomatopoetic phrases and assonant rhythms, all sashaying in and out artlessly. Kalkitamizh , they called it.

He developed riveting tactics for art critiques, as in this review of the film Bhakta Nandanar , about the Dalit saint. 'This film has no Nandanar, only K B Sundarambal, who does not fit the role. And you wonder where she had stockpiled so many discordant notes until now.'

'As for Viswanatha Iyer, he seems to have rendered Chidambara Darisanama only to demonstrate just how badly it could be sung. However, the movie has three brilliant and flawless performances -- by a coconut tree, a buffalo, and lastly, a little goat.'

Asked how he could slam a film made by the aficionados of the Congress party, the writer retorted, 'The Congress commands my total allegiance. But I cannot applaud Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru if he performs a music concert.'

In 1940, Kalki was kicked out of Ananda Vikatan for posing a threat to the magazine with his resolve to perform satyagraha.

Once out of prison, Kalki launched his eponymous magazine Kalki in partnership with friend and fellow revolutionary T Sadasivam, whose wife, Carnatic musician M S Subbulakshmi, raised the funds with a film role.

The new magazine was a runaway success. There were tussles in every household among family members to be the first to read it.

Even critics conceded that Kalki drew a record number of women readers.

In the 1950s, the Audit Bureau of Circulation certified that Kalki's circulation was higher than that of any newspaper or magazine in any language in India.

The biggest draw was Kalki's historical fiction serialised in the magazine. This was a genre he pioneered in Tamil, and in which he remains unsurpassed.

Walter Scott and Alexander Dumas may have suggested the idea, but Kalki's narratives bore their own quintessentially Tamil stamp.

Their purpose was not to retell history. Like the bardic lays and folk ballads in his native land, they were meant to instill self-confidence in the readers, and pride in their heritage.

The writer wanted to make the glories of the Pallavas and the Cholas impact on contemporary Tamil self-fashioning, to help his people overcome the sense of insecurity and inferiority engendered through the long years of colonial oppression.

Parthiban Kanavu (1941-1943) allegorised the thirst for freedom in a Chola prince who refused to make compromises.

Sivakamiyin Sapatham showed how the civilian population, arts and values are the first casualties of violence and warfare, even as it warned of the dangers of religion invading politics.

PS I may focus on bloodshed and deadly conspiracies. But Ponniyin Selvan is about peace keeping and protecting the innocent in war zones.

To the author, the mammoth narrative climaxed not on the battlefield, but on the dharmic victory of Prince Arulmozhi in renouncing the throne. He compares it to Prince Siddhartha walking out of the palace, and King Ashoka abjuring war after the Kalinga massacre.

Kalki's goal was not to amaze or entertain, but to promote the anti-colonial struggle, Gandhian ideals, to uproot caste-creed-gender discrimination, untouchability, child marriage and all forms of hidebound patriarchy.

His women characters were invariably strong-minded, sharp-witted and intelligent.

Early heroine Sarada outwits a man to save him from a pitfall.

The Letter is a poignant tribute to Sister Subbulakshmi, an educationist whose schools trained widows and destitute women to become self-reliant.

In the novel Alai Osai , Dharini, a spirited member of the Socialist party, carries out subversive missions against the British Raj with savoire faire .

In Sivakamiyin Sapatham , Sivakami walks tall, energised by the pride and willpower of her matchless artistic achievements.

In Ponniyin Selvan , both the noble princess Kundavai and her antagonist Nandini have brilliant minds.

Alai Osai , which the author deemed his best work, underscores the fact that though rooted in Tamil culture, language and identity, Kalki's vision has national sweep and international focus.

The storyline follows the fortunes of Sita, married to highly placed bureaucrat Raghavan, a supporter of British rule in India.

Sita's cousin Surya, a dauntless revolutionary committed to the socialist credo, is drawn to fellow rebel Dharini, the woman Raghavan cannot forget.

Kalki had planned to write Alai Osai against the backdrop of India's struggle for independence, and a paean to the glory of the Mahatma.

But Partition brought with it shrieks of terror and wails of anguish.

Two months before the novel was launched, when Gandhi was assassinated, Kalki's obituary overflowed with angst, despair and fear for the future.

'After the loss of the Mahatma, our life is plunged into a miasma of darkness. And yet, the Mahatma has left us an inextinguishable light, the immortal light of truth, to be sustained and fuelled by ahimsa and tyaga , non-violence and sacrifice. Let us ensure that whirlwinds and tempests do not extinguish it.'

Alai Osai seeks this light as it journeys through a bleeding country on the verge of freedom, in tones shifting from rosy romance to stark realism, dream to disillusionment.

The reader begins to face questions, not about the past, but in the here and now -- about politics and ethics, state and citizen, society and the individual, the vestiges of colonialism, privilege and marginalization, history and cultural revisionism.

In his keynote address at the Tamil writers conference, Kalki spelt out his credo. 'The test of good writing is whether it aids the unification of the human community or promotes discord... Any writing that militates against the ethical principles of love, empathy, justice and truth, will bring harm to humanity. And any evil sprouting in any section of society will have an irreversible impact on the whole world.'

In Kalki Krishnamurthy, the revolutionary inflames the writer, the poet coexists with the propagandist, the creative mind informs the crusading spirit.

To him, writing is the fulfilment of the writer's responsibilities as a human being, without fear, with compassion.

Playwright, journalist Gowri Ramnarayan was a vocal accompanist to Bharat Ratna M S Subbulakshmi and has translated her grandfather Kalki Krishnamurthy's biography and also his novel Alai Osai as The Sound of Waves .

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Author : Kalki Krishnamurthy

Indian novelist, short story writer, journalist, poet and Indian independence activist

Historical novels

• Parthiban Kanavu (1941-1943) (appeared as serial)
• Sivagamiyin Sapatham (1944-1946) (appeared as serial)
• Solaimalai Ilavarasi (1947)
• Ponniyin Selvan (1950-1954) (appeared as serial)

Social novels

• Kalvanin Kadhali (1937)
• Alai Osai (1948)

Some or all works by this author are in the public domain in the United States because they were first published outside the United States (and not published in the U.S. within 30 days), and they were first published before 1989 without complying with U.S. copyright formalities (renewal and/or copyright notice) and they were in the public domain in their home country on the URAA date (January 1, 1996 for most countries).

This author died in 1954, so works by this author are in the public domain in countries and areas where the copyright term is the author's life plus 69 years or less . These works may be in the public domain in countries and areas with longer native copyright terms that apply the rule of the shorter term to foreign works .

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Profile and Life History of Kalki Krishnamurthy

Indian writer, tamil novelist, journalist and indian independence activists.

Kalki was born as Ramaswamy Krishnamurthy to Ramaswamy Iyer and Thaiyal Nayagi on 9 th September 1899 in Puthamangalam (near Manalmedu) in Thanjavur District of TamilNadu. His father Ramaswamy Iyer was an accountant in his village in Tanjavur. His pen name was Kalki. He got the name “Kalki” from the tenth avatar of Hindu God Vishnu.

Personal life

Kalki married Rukmani in 1924. He had two children Kalki Rajendran and Anandi Ramachandran.

School life

His primary education began in a village school. Later he went to the Municipal High School in Mayavaram. In 1921, when Mahatma Gandhi started his Non-cooperation movement, Kalki joined the Indian National congress by leaving the school. Kalki got imprisonment for one year prison for taking part in the independence struggle in 1922.

Life Career of Kalki

Kalki became the sub-editor on a Tamil periodical daily Navasakthi. He published his first book in 1927. In 1927, he released his short story “Saradhaiyin Thanthiram”. In 1928, he left Navasakthi and went to stay with C.Rajagopalachari in Tiruchengode Gandhi Ashram in Salem District. Kalki helped the latter in editing the Vimochanam. Later in 1931, Kalki was sent to jail for six months. Kalki had a good friendship with the Congress leader C.Rajagopalachari and T.Sadasivam. The latter T.Sadasivam was a partner in the journalistic prescription of Kalki.

He joined a weekly magazine Ananda Vikatan( whose Edition and Publication work done by S.S.Vasan) in 1932. In 1937, his first novel was “Kalvanin Kadhali” was published in Anandha Vikatan. Later in 1939, Kalki debut as the screenplay writer for the Tamil movie “Thayaga Bhoomi”. Regardless of the ban by the Government of British, this film got a huge success. Again he left the Ananda Vikatan in 1941, to join the freedom struggle. He was arrested again for his participation in the freedom struggle.

He spent three months in jail. After his release from jail, he began the new weekly Kalki along with Sadasivam. He wrote a novel “Sivagamiyin Sabadham” in 1944. In 1945, he wrote the lyrics for the Tamil film “Meera”. In 1950, he took interest on history and  began to write the historical  novels Ponniyin Selvan and Parthiban kanavu.  

Apart from writing novels, he was a Tamil Writer, Poet, Journalist and Activist of Freedom. He had written 10 novellas, 120 short stories, 5 novels, 3 Historical romances, political and editorial contents. Then he wrote a hundred of music and movie reviews. Initially, almost all the novels of him got printed in serialized format, and then it was printed in the form of a book following the compilation of those contents.

He had written lyrics for many songs, out of which many got composed in Carnatic music. He wrote the commentary on film and music with the pen name “Karnatakam”. In 1963, his novel Alai Osai that came in Kalki magazine was gathered and made into a book.

Literary works of Kalki

He wrote about the Pallava dynasty in his famous novels, Sivagamiyin Sapatham and Parthiban Kanavu. His novel Ponniyin Selvan, for which he took three years to write, tells about the king of famous Cholas Dynasty. In his novel Solaimalai Illavarasiin 1947, he wrote about the Independence of India.

His social novels include the Thiyaga Bhoomi, Kalvanin Kaadhali, Magudapathi, Alai Osai, Abalayin Kaneer, Mohini Theevu, Devagiyin Kanavan, Poiman Karadu, Amara Thara and Punnaivanathu Puli. 

His short stories were Otrai Roja, Subhathraiyin Sagodharan, Vasdhadhu Venu, Pudhu Ovarsiyar, Vasdhadhu Venu, Amara Vazhvu Theepiditha Kudisaigal, Thirudan magan Thirudan, Imayamalai Engal Malai, Sunduvi Sanyasam, Pushpa Pallaaku, Prabala, Pithalai Ottiyanam, Pongumaangkadal, Parisil Thurai, Arunachalathin Aluval, Kamalavin Kalyanam, Tharkolai, Susila MA, Saradhaiyin Thandhiram, Kanaiyazhiyin Kanavu, Governor Vijayam, Banker Vinayakarao, Punnaivanthupuli, number 888, Onbathu kulinilam, Zamindar Mahan, Kethariyin Thaayar, Srikandhan Punarjenmam, Chandramathi, Veenai Bhavani, Thappili cup, Kadithamum Kaneerum, Mayilak kalai, Idintha Kottai and Tiger King.

The story Tiger King is the story about a King whose death occurs, due to a Tiger as per the astrologers prediction. The end of this story makes the readers to laugh, which proved that Kalki was brilliant in writing innovative stories also.

In his novel Ponniyin Selvan , he narrates the story of Arulmozhivarman (Rajaraja Chola I). This was one of the greatest novels in Tamil literature since 1950.  He had written on the political career and power endeavor of the Chola King. Many of them from Tamil cinema made a strive, to feature a film based on this novel. In 1958, then top star of Tamil Cinema MGR made an attempt to make film based on this novel, which was later put off due to the accident.

His novel Sivagamiyin Sabatham (The vow of Sivagami) is again one of the historical novel which is based with the themes spy, romance and thriller. This novel narrates the historical happenings and characters in the 7th century in South India. He wrote this novel based on themes like love, honor and friendship .  This novel tells about the historical happenings faced by Pulakeshin II (who is the Chalukya King)  and Narasimhavarman attack on Vatapi.

His novel Parthiban Kanavu tells about the historical story of Chola King Vikraman, the son of Chola King Parthiban. Kalki narrates on the efforts made by the Chola King Vikraman to gain freedom from the Pallava King Narasimhavarman-I.

Award and Honor s of Kalki

On the centenary celebration of Kalki, a postal stamp was released to honor him. The Government of Tamil Nadu declared the nationalization of the works of Kalki. In 1953, Kalki won the Sangeetha Kalasikhamani award from the Indian Fine Arts Society. Kalki Krishnamurthy has won the Sahitya Akademi award for his novel Alai Osai.  

On 5 th December 1954, Kalki died in Chennai due to Tuberculosis at the age of 55. His last editorial work and special issue of magazine for Annai Sarada Devi came on the day of his death.

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How Kalki Krishnamurthy became a cult before ‘Ponniyin Selvan’

The epic novel Ponniyin Selvan should be banned, an irate critic declared recently. Readers must learn that its author, ‘Kalki’ R Krishnamurthy (1899-1954), is not a one-book wonder, but a prolific writer and pioneer of modern Tamil literature.

Seventy years after it was published, this 2,500-page historical saga in five volumes continues to remain a bestseller, breaking records as the single-most read Tamil work of fiction, then and now. Once Kalki’s works were nationalised, multiple publishing houses have been bringing out their own reprints of Ponniyin Selvan, ranging from illustrated hardbacks to patchwork editions. This year, with the screen version of this quintessential Tamil classic about to be released, its English translations, audio and ebooks too are enjoying popularity.

Kalki had become a cult figure in the Tamil realm much before Ponniyin Selvan was published — as journalist, political analyst, social reformist, magazine editor, essayist, travel writer, critic of the arts, custodian of culture, proponent of Tamil music, commentator on current affairs, ace fictionist. He had even penned a few poems and a filmscript. A fellow journalist called him “a film star among writers,” not without envy. He had written the first historical novel in Tamil, a genre in which he remains unsurpassed. Serialised in his eponymous magazine, Partiban Kanavu (1941-43) allegorized the thirst for freedom in a Chola prince. Sivakamiyin Sapatam (1944-46) and Ponniyin Selvan (1950-54) recreated the magnificent traditions of art, culture and literary achievements in the eras of the Pallavas and Imperial Cholas, which were brought to bear on contemporary Tamil self-fashioning.

What inspired a village boy from an indigent family in humble circumstances to write the way he did? I found the answer when I translated Ponniyin Pudalvar and Alai Osai during the “Covid years”. The first is ‘Sunda’ MRM Sundaram’s monumental biography of the writer, published in English as Kalki Krishnamurthy: His Life and Times (2022). The second is my favourite Kalki novel, to be launched as The Sound of Waves.

Sunda’s biography is not about an individual. I t is a chronicle of the Indian independence movement, with its attendant movements of reform and renaissance that Kalki had witnessed, participated in, analysed and recorded. Kalki’s career began when he quit school in response to Gandhi’s call for non-cooperation to become a writer of pamphlets at the office of the Congress party in Tiruchi. This fervour was fuelled by his training in journalism at Navasakti, Madras, edited by Tamil scholar, trade unionist and independence activist TV Kalyanasundara Mudaliar, and when he assisted his leader C Rajagopalachari (Rajaji) in editing and publishing the anti-liquor magazine Vimochanam .

Also read: Encounter with vodka à la Rooskie: When two Russians went berserk

Kalki came into his own as editor and writer when he joined Ananda Vikatan, boosting its image and sales. His political commentaries aroused strong responses, his art critiques launched debates: He had crafted a style of his own — fluent, frothing with humour, where complex ideas became easy to grasp as in a companionable exchange between friends. Kalkitamizh, they called it.

In no time at all he found himself turning into a beloved author for thousands of readers. The bitterness of parting ways with the magazine he had nurtured was forgotten in the excitement of launching his eponymous magazine Kalki (1941). This was in partnership with friend and fellow revolutionary T Sadasivam, whose wife, Carnatic musician MS Subbulakshmi, raised the funds with a film role.

In every town and village across the state, on the day the weekly issue of Kalki arrived, readers queued to grab their copies at railway stations, bus stops and newsstands. To avoid tussles among family members, some households subscribed to two issues. In others, the whole family gathered to hear the chapters read aloud. The Audit Bureau of Circulation had certified that each Kalki issue had a print order of 71,366. In the 1950s, Kalki’s circulation was higher than that of any newspaper or magazine in any language in India.

Success brought criticism. Particularly from the writers of the Manikkodi group who accused Kalki of plagiarism and populist writing. On the political front, his unwavering championship of lifelong mentor Rajaji drew attacks from the “anti-Rajaji” faction in his own Congress Party. Then there were salvos from the rationalists of the Dravida parties opposed to the Congress. Conservatives resisted his reformist credos. Revelling in these polemical disputes, Kalki used his trademark humour with deadly effect in response. Moreover, his ability to give praise wherever it was due, even to those who opposed him, added to his stature. Even the Dravida leaders admitted, “Kalki could appreciate the fragrance of a flower even when it bloomed in his adversary’s garden.”

Meanwhile, Kalki had evolved into a captivating orator, campaigned for political, social and cultural reform. He raised funds for multiple causes, particularly for indigent writers. He masterminded the building of memorials to Subramania Bharati in the poet’s native Ettayapuram, and to Mahatma Gandhi in Madras. His son declared, “Father didn’t know what fatigue meant.”

In 1933, when a critic accused him of aiming at propaganda instead of literary worth, an unfazed Kalki shrugged, “Expect writings of lasting literary value from the hundreds and thousands of Tamil writers who will appear hereafter. Let me be what I am, a propagandist!”

Every word he wrote promoted self-confidence and cultural pride in his compatriots, to replace self-distrust and the sense of inferiority engendered by colonial oppression. A Gandhian to the core, he fought against every kind of caste, creed and gender discrimination. His women were bright, strong, intelligent agents of hope and progress.

Kalki’s novel Alai Osai replays the historical events of the independence struggle recounted in Kalki’s biography. But as Kalki paints them in his own words, the same events begin to trigger urgent questions for us today — in politics, philosophy, ethics, the problems of society, gender, cultural revisionism and ideas that shape the world here and now. The novel has all the elements of a Kalki narrative from romance to surprise twists. But all these riveting devices of fiction move towards a single goal. To make the reader reflect on the responsibilities of the state and the citizen as we move into a more complex future.

For Kalki Krishnamurthy, the act of writing was an assertion of values.

Gowri Ramnarayan is a playwright, theatre director, translator and freelance journalist. Founder, inhouse playwright and artistic director, JustUs Repertory, she was formerly Deputy Editor, The Hindu, and vocal accompanist to Carnatic musician MS Subbulakshmi. She is now Chairperson, Rukmini Devi Arundale Trust, Senior Associate Editor, Sruti Magazine, and Adjunct Faculty, Asian College of Journalism. Kalki’s oldest granddaughter, Ramnarayan has translated MRM Sundaram’s biography of Kalki (Kalki Krishnamurthy: His Life & Times, Kalki Biography Project), Kalki’s short fiction (Selected Stories, Penguin), and his Sahitya Akademi-winning novel (The Sound of Waves, Hachette). 

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Kalki Krishnamurthy

his life and times

Today, Kalki R Krishnamurthy (1899-1954) is best known for his historical fiction – Sivakamiyin Sapatham, Ponniyin Selvan, and Parthiban Kanavu – recreating the glorious eras of the Pallavas and the Cholas. The conquests and art and culture of these two kingly dynasties are brought to bear on contemporary Tamil self-fashioning. Alai Osai, which the author deemed his best work, documents the turbulent years of the freedom struggle between 1934 and 1947, seen through the eyes of ordinary people who are inevitably affected by the socio-political changes.

In a comprehensive biography of the iconic writer, Sunda (the nom-de-plume of MRM Sundaram, a writer known for his stint in the Tamil service of BBC) shows how, for Kalki, writing was an act of protest as part of India’s freedom movement, to assert India’s spiritual and cultural values, and to commit himself to Gandhian ideals.

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A modern-day avatar of Vishnu, a Hindu god, who is believed to have descended to earth to protect the world from evil forces. A modern-day avatar of Vishnu, a Hindu god, who is believed to have descended to earth to protect the world from evil forces. A modern-day avatar of Vishnu, a Hindu god, who is believed to have descended to earth to protect the world from evil forces.

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November 2022

Ponniyin Selvan – an inquiry into Kalki’s historical fiction

Pride in one’s heritage, an attempt to understand the past, and the determination to enable a better future -- these are perhaps the most vital sources of energy in Kalki R Krishnamurthy (1899-1954), an iconic novelist and a pioneer of modem Tamil literature and journalism.

Kalki: A writer for all seasons

Book Release Function at the Chennai International Centre

I spent a whole year doing nothing but translating the 900-page biography of the iconic Tamil writer Kalki Krishnamurthy into English. My friends ask me, “Why did you get into this back-breaking project?”

November 2021

A soiree of words as PC Ramakrishna reads a chapter from the translation