Chowallur was a man of immense literary talent which manifested across all genres of writing. An ardent devotee of the Lord, letters and arts, his works have the remarkable ability to convey complex ideas and emotions through simple writing.

He has published a total of 27 books covering poetry, novels, short stories, plays, translations and satires. They continue to captivate readers of Malayali origin across continents who find solace, inspiration, and sheer delight in his words.

His pen seemed to dance effortlessly on the pages, weaving tales of life, hymns of the Almighty and stories that portrayed people and events in a humourous tone. From the ethereal verses of his poetry which evoked the beauty of nature and the depths of human emotion, to the riveting dramas that brought characters to life on stage, and satires that used humour to challenge prevailing norms and bring attention to social and political issues, every word of his resonated with an undeniable sincerity.

What set Chowallur apart was his ability to craft stories that were accessible to all, bridging the gap between highbrow literature and everyday readers, ensuring his works were cherished and celebrated by audiences from all walks of life. Bridging the gap did not affect the way in which he wielded words. He crafted accessible stories and songs that leaned on the richness of literature and the depths of spirituality

Interestingly, it was on the premises of the famed Chowallur Siva temple that Chowallur Krishnankutty was inducted into the world of literature and letters at a young age. Right from his school days, his mornings and evenings were spent at the temple where his family had the hereditary right to serve the deity. After finishing his work, he would study the day’s lessons while waiting for the puja to be over. Those evenings turned out to play an important role in his life because his companion, Balan Marar, an avid reader and lover of literature, introduced great writers such as Changampuzha, Vailoppilly and their works to him. He read Malayalam poems and novels in the light of a temple lamp, and was soon hooked to their charm.

Friendships and aquaintance with prominent personalities were integral to the growth of Chowallur as an author. His higher studies at Sree Keralavarma College, Thrissur, was marked close interactions with young Namboothiri friends and connoisseurs of temple arts that helped enrich Chowallur’s artistic and literary taste. Through their friendship, he began developing a deeper enjoyment and understanding of temple arts. Madhavan Ayyappath, Yusufali Kecheri, K.P Shankaran, CLV Menon, M.R Chandrasekharan, N.N Kakkad and KPP Namboothiri were among the known names of the campus in those days. These youngsters too were a great influence on him to write poems and stories.

In 1953, he won the gold medal for poetry in the compeition organised by Sasthra Sahithya Parishad. A surprise honour that encouraged him to write more and hone his skills.

The emergence of a social and cultural movement in Kerala in the 1950s added fuel to his interests. When he chose jounalism as his career, it opened for him doors to days blessed with the presence of stalwarts of the state’s social, cultural, political and literary fields. He could interact with Vaikom Muhammed Basheer, Thakazhi, Vayalar Rama Varma, P. Bhaskaran and MT among others. But more importantly, he was writing what the much-acclaimed writer-critic and former minister and writer, Prof Joseph Mundassery dictated to him. That language, narrative style, subject and ease of reading moulded Chowallur as a writer of repute in the years to come.

As he found himself in the midst of creative minds, opportunities to pen songs and plays came to him, and he earned a name for himself across all these segments and more.Whatever he wrote, his talent truly shone, painting vivid landscapes and sculpting intricately layered characters that mirrored the diverse tapestry of life itself.

In addition to his published books, Chowallur was a regular contributor to leading magazine publications such as Mathrubhumi weekly, Bhashaposhini, Kalakaumudi etc during his literary career.

Chowallur has left an indelible mark on Malayalam literature, and his legacy as a writer with immense literary talent and a master of simple writing continues to inspire aspiring authors.