Kunjikkali’s Echoes of Liberation: The Mystic Story of A Dalit Woman Rising Above Death

By Prof. Jayalekshmi

Discover the captivating tale of Kunjikkali, a dignified and self-reliant Dalit woman who embraced the four elements of Nature, transcending the norms of her time. Set in the mythical land of Pookkaithayoor, where the sweet scent of screw pine flowers mingles with the essence of a virgin mother lake, the narrative unfolds as a visual feast of words.

We are introduced to Kunjikkali on her wedding day. Intolerant of the jarring kurava (ululation) sound made by the women during the thalikettu (wedding ceremony), Kunjikkali, the 18-year-old bride, surprises everyone by silencing the cacophony with her clear and melodious voice—in a decidedly unusual and rebellious act for a bride. Throughout her life, she continues to raise her voice against ugly and unholy sights and sounds, challenging customs that demean human dignity.

The narrative offers a romantic portrayal of the simple, humble lives of the impoverished, depicting their ordeals and unwavering loyalty to the land and its landlords. It captures their journey from mere survival to active rebellion against oppressive rulers.

With alternating flashes of love and hate, good and evil, the narrative weaves a rich tapestry of emotions that captivates and resonates with readers.

Written in lucid language, this novel is one you can easily read in one sitting.

PROF. JAYALEKSHMI, a former English teacher at DB College in Sasthamcotta, Kollam, embarked on her writing journey relatively late during the COVID-19 lockdowns. The Malayalam novel Kunjikkalikkurava is her second book and was honoured with the prestigious ‘Dr Sukumar Azhikode Thatwamasi Award’ for the best novel of 2022–2023.