Vayalar award-winning 'Athreyakam' in plagiarism row; Dr Rajasree files lawsuit

ALAPPUZHA: Novelist Dr Vinayasree alleged that Vayalar Award-winning novel Athreyakam—written by Dr Rajasree- bears conceptual and contextual similarities to her own novels. At a press conference, Vinayasree said she submitted a complaint to the secretary of the Vayalar Ramavarma Trust’s award selection committee, accusing Rajasree of plagiarism (a violation of literary originality).

Dr Vinayasree of 'Vijayanivas' in Alappuzha wrote three works based on characters and themes from the Mahabharata: Panchaliyude Ezhu Rathrikal (2018), Hidumbi (2018), and Shikhandi (2019). She claimed that several parts of Athreyakam—including character portrayal, the development of ideas, the sequencing of events, dialogue, and specific scenes—resemble her own work. In total, there are over a dozen such scenes and contexts.

Following Vinayasree’s allegation, Dr Rajasree filed a lawsuit against the novelist in the Thalassery Munsiff Court, seeking damages of five lakh rupees. Dr Vinayasree demanded that the decision regarding the award be reconsidered.

“A complaint was received from Dr Vinayasree. The award was announced based on the endorsement of readers and the award selection committee. Since the award is intended for works that have gained popular appeal, the objection is not applicable.” said Satheesan, Secretary of the Vayalar Award Selection Committee.