The Sahitya Akademi award for 2023 has been awarded to Tamil writer Devibharathi’s novel Neervazhi Padoom which portrays the life of the Kudi Navithar, the community barbers in the Kongu region of Tamil Nadu. The title Neervazhi Padoom is taken from a line in the Purananuru poem, a literary work from the Sangam age. The line Neervazhi Padoom translates to “a float that sails on the way of the water,” symbolizing the concept that life follows the path determined by fate.
Devibharathi, a 65-year old Tamil writer, expressed his gratitude for the recognition of the award, stating that it will help introduce the novel to other languages in the country. Devibharathi previously worked with the literary magazine Kalachuvadu for 10 years, serving as the editor-in-chief for 7 years.
The novel is narrated through an unnamed character (the author) and begins with the death of Kaaru Mama at Udayampalayam. The narrator’s memories of him intertwine with present-day life, depicting the struggles faced by the barbers within the caste-Hindu society. The novel captures the essence of a life that flows effortlessly with the water, without resisting the current.
Writer and translator G. Kuppuswamy explained that the oppression experienced by characters in the novel is largely self-inflicted, with Kaaru Mama being constantly betrayed and exploited by his relatives without any complaints.
Devibharathi vividly describes the mourners’ song at the death of Kaaru Mama, creating a world of magic realism through the mourning of women. The novel also highlights the Kudi Navithar community’s proficiency in singing folk tunes and narrating stories of Annanmar Kathai, as well as their role in performing auspicious songs (mangala vaazhthu) in marriages.