Malayalis losing interest in literature: O V Usha

Speaking at a function at the Institute of Management in Government here, she said command over one's mother tongue is inevitable for appreciation of literature in any language

"Literature is on the back seat now. The growing influence of politics and cinema has killed enthusiasm for literature among Malayalis. Writers are not getting the same acceptance in society now which matinee idols and politicians enjoy," she said.

Usha, who worked as editor in some of the leading publishing houses in the country, was invited to speak as part of a series of lectures organised by IMG to promote Malayalam as official language of the state.

She said the standard of English teaching in Kerala schools is deteriorating fast.