Renowned Malayalam writer and Jnanpith Award winner M T Vasudevan Nair passed away at 91 after being treated for heart failure at a Kozhikode hospital. Known for works like Naalukettu and Asuravithu, he authored nine novels and 19 short stories and directed six films. His contributions earned him numerous awards, including the Padma Bhushan and JC Daniel Award. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan described his death as an irreparable loss to Malayalam literature. The state declared official mourning on December 26 and 27, postponing all government events.