A life that enriched contemporary Kerala: CM, Ministers remember MK Sanoo
Affectionately known as Sanoo Mash, he died on Saturday at the Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences in Kochi.
Affectionately known as Sanoo Mash, he died on Saturday at the Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences in Kochi.
Affectionately known as Sanoo Mash, he died on Saturday at the Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences in Kochi.
Veteran Malayalam literary critic, teacher, and thinker Prof M K Sanoo passed away on Saturday at the age of 97, leaving behind a legacy that deeply shaped Kerala’s cultural and intellectual landscape. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan led the tributes, calling Sanoo's death "an irreparable loss not only to Kerala society at large but especially to its progressive movements."
Affectionately known as Sanoo Mash, he died on Saturday at the Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences in Kochi, where he was under treatment following complications from a hip fracture sustained in a fall.
"A curtain has fallen on a life that enriched Kerala’s history and society through tireless efforts, stirring speeches, and enduring writings," the Chief Minister said in an official statement. “Sanoo Mash was a calm yet unwavering presence in our socio-cultural landscape. His contributions across the realms of Malayalam language and literature made him a towering figure and a source of pride for the state.” Recalling his personal memories, CM Vijayan said, “He briefly taught at Brennen College, Thalassery, during the Emergency — a time when I saw him visibly shaken by the police brutality against students and youth. His life was a living textbook in humanist and egalitarian thought.”
The Chief Minister noted Sanoo’s unwavering commitment to both Sree Narayana Guru’s teachings and Marxist-Leninist ideals. “He believed these philosophies could help build a just and forward-looking society — and he upheld them throughout his life,” Vijayan said. “Sanoo Mash walked in step with the progressive journey of united Kerala, constantly striving to illuminate his era and inspire social transformation.”
Industries Minister P Rajeev echoed these sentiments, describing Sanoo not only as a literary giant but also as an exceptional educator. “He began his career as a schoolteacher and went on to become a revered professor. His literary criticism in Malayalam remains unmatched,” Rajeev said.
Reflecting on his long association with Sanoo Mash, the minister added, “From my student days in Ernakulam to my present role in public life, his insights and guidance have helped shape my worldview. He treated everyone — regardless of age or status — with equal respect. He was, in every sense, a teacher to all.”
Rajeev also highlighted Sanoo’s clarity in thought and simplicity in expression. “There was a time when people would queue with tickets in hand just to listen to him speak. His speeches combined depth and accessibility — a rare gift.”
Dr R Bindu, Minister for Higher Education and Social Justice, described Sanoo as “a beacon of light who illuminated generations with the power of letters and knowledge.” She hailed him as a scholar, an intellectual, and a champion of social justice, adding, “He deeply understood the essence of Sree Narayana philosophy and lived a life rooted in social responsibility. He believed that true happiness lies in the happiness of others.”
Sanoo’s mortal remains will be brought to his residence, Sandhya, on Karakkamuri Road, Ernakulam, by 8 am on Sunday. Public homage will be held from 9 am to 10 am, followed by a public viewing at Ernakulam Town Hall from 10 am. The funeral will take place at 5 pm at the Ravipuram public crematorium.