Pennillam community for female authors; 62 books with women authors released in Sharjah

ALAPPUZHA: Those who went for MGNREGA by hiding stories within themselves, those who did housework in other houses with poems in their hearts, those who kept their writings within themselves amidst family struggles... When they devoted some time to writing, 62 books were born. It was released at the Sharjah International Book Festival on the 11th of this month. A total of 27 people arrived in Sharjah for the release.

The works are in different categories such as poetry, story, novel, children's literature, mythology, travelogue, astrology, autobiography, and cooking.

A WhatsApp group called 'Pennillam' was behind this. A collection of poems titled 'Pennillam' was the first to be released. Books titled 'Pinnallathe Kazhchapadukal' and 'Illathe Pranayinikal' were released on Women's Day and Valentine's Day respectively. With the increase of writers, a publishing company named 'Ezhuthillam' was also started. There is also a radio station called 'Pennillam' operating through WhatsApp.

President Anitha Devi, secretary Raji Aravind, vice-president Sudha Kaitharam and joint convener Yamuna Harish are leading 'Penillam'.

Start with 'Thaachi'

A WhatsApp group started by Raji Aravind, a social worker and native of Iritty in Kannur, under the name 'Thachi,' was the beginning. Thachi means grandmother in the Malabar area. 'Pennillam' was born as the first book with the writings of 20 people. With Malayalee women from other districts and states becoming members, the name was revised to 'Pennillam'. Most of them are teachers. The senior member is 74-year-old Mini. 19-year-old Arya is the youngest member. Janaki (60), a native of Kannur who did not pass class 10, has resumed her studies after joining the community and is preparing to join LLB.