Though he was a fellow traveller of modernity in Malayalam writing, Kunjabdulla’s forte was the clarity and simplicity of his writing. To the readers, his writing was akin to a magnet placed near iron particles. He would compel the reader to follow his writing and he had the innate ability to entertain readers. This is a talent which seems missing in several of our new age writers.
No other writer of his era could foray into the world of myths, especially those from the Muslim life, as Kunjabdulla did. He glued this into his stories even while taking a clear stand against Muslim fundamentalism. Even if the milieu is a city, he would be in search of rustic characters. He had a large trove of such characters. The readers could get a vicarious taste of the dishes depicted in his writing. Through detailed narration, he would usher the taste to our palates.
This may be due to his culinary expertise. For everything, be it eating or drinking, Kunjabdulla had a scientific vision. Personally he had an eye for hygiene. This was evident from a glass or a table at his house. This quality was reflected in the creation and placement of his characters too.
He was very popular as a doctor too. This too was partially due to his creative style of treatment by giving personal care to the patients. Though he was never an excellent orator, he could discern ways to stay in the news. Hence, controversies were part of his speeches which made him a much sought after speaker.
(The author is a noted writer in Malayalam. As told to Chandrakanth Viswanath)