Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday presented the Priyadarshini Literary Award to veteran writer, educationist and literary critic M Leelavathy at the ‘Maha Panchayat’ event held in Kerala.
Leelavathy, 98, is a recipient of several honours, including the Sahitya Akademi Award, for her contribution to Malayalam literature. Born in Guruvayur, she currently resides in Thrikkakara in Ernakulam district.
Speaking at the event, Gandhi described Leelavathy as an icon not only for Kerala but for the entire country. He said he was inspired by her discipline and dedication, noting that she continues to wake up at 3 am to read and write even at her age.
Referring to her remarks on the “culture of silence”, Gandhi said silence often stemmed from fear and greed, warning that great nations are built on the courage to express opinions, not on silence.
He also praised her simplicity and humility, saying he could see the true spirit of Kerala reflected in her personality.
Accepting the award, Leelavathy thanked Gandhi and spoke about secularism, recalling former prime ministers Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi, whose values, she said, continue in Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi.
