THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Born to O N Krishna Kurup and K Lakshmikutty Amma on May 27, 1931, ONV lost his father at a young age. He passed intermediate from University College in 1948 and obtained his degree in economics from Kollam SN College in 1952.
After securing a post-graduate degree in Malayalam from the University College in 1955, ONV joined Maharaja’s College, Ernakulam, as a teacher. During his 25-year- long career, he served as department head at the University College, Arts and Science College, Kozhikode, Government Brennen College, Thalassery and Government Women’s College, Thiruvananthapuram. After retiring from service in 1986, ONV served as a visiting professor at Kozhikode University for a year.
ONV is a recipient of the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Shri, Medal of Pushkin and an honorary doctorate from the University of Kerala. Coveted literary honours that came his way include Kendra Sahitya Akademi award (1975), Ezhuthachan Puraskaram (2007), Vayalar Award (1982) and the Kerala Sahitya Akademi award (1971). ONV penned around 900 film songs. He won the annual state film award 13 times.
Function Postponed
The valedictory function of the Nava Kerala Yatra led by CPM politburo member Pinarayi Vijayan, scheduled for Sunday, has been postponed to Monday following the demise of poet O N V Kurup. CPM sources said the time and venue of the valedictory function would be the same. Other programmes scheduled in connection with the Yatra have also been postponed.