JUBAIL – The Jubail-based Indian writer PJJ Antony recently won the Galleria Gallant Literary Award 2016 for his short story collection in Malayalam language titled ‘Varuvin namukk paapam cheyyaam’. The award carries a bronze sculpture designed by the renowned sculptor Kanai Kunjiraman, citation plaque and prize money of Rs.100,000. Three other writers from Malayalam have also been chosen for the award this year. They are eminent poet Professor V. Madhusoodanan Nair, T.D. Ramakrishnan and E.P. Srikumar.
The awards were presented to the winners by Perumbadavam Sridharan, chairman of Kerala Sahithya Academy, at a glittering ceremony held recently at Sheikh Rashid Library Hall in Dubai. Well known writers from Kerala Dr. George Onakkoor, Subhash Chandran, Rose Mary and John Samuel attended the function. Chairman of the Galleria Group Faizal Chungath and Galleria Entertainments General Manager K.A. Manoj were also present. Kalamandalam Anju and Njeralath Harigovindan enthralled the audience with their brilliant performance.
Antony is one of the leading Malayalam short story writers in the Kingdom. The award-winning book is a collection of 10 short stories. The stories of Antony, who carved his niche in the realm of Malayalam short story, are the best illustration of the contemporary discourses on human dignity, culture, literature, politics, spirituality and so on.
Antony has been working for AYTB as senior administrator for about 24 years. He is the author of four collections of short stories, and translated four books from English to Malayalam. He regularly conducts workshops on literature, creative writing, public speaking, and leadership. He is active in Toastmasters fraternity, and was awarded with the highest Toastmasters educational honor of DTM.
