Manasi, born near Thiruvilwamala as the daughter of P. Sivarama Menon and P.A. Malathi Amma, is a notable figure in Indian literature, particularly celebrated for her exploration of the female psyche and challenging conventional notions of womanhood. Although she pursued Chemical Engineering at Thrissur Engineering College, her path eventually led her to Mumbai, where she embarked on a career as a freelance copywriter in the 1970s.
Her literary journey began with contributions of short stories and articles to various periodicals, showcasing her keen insight into the complexities of women's lives. Manasi's storytelling delves into the darker, often overlooked aspects of the female experience, offering nuanced portrayals that resist simplistic definitions imposed by patriarchal norms.
One of her most renowned works, "Punaradhivasam," was adapted into a Malayalam feature film by VK Prakash in 2000. The film garnered widespread acclaim, winning prestigious awards such as the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam and the Kerala State Film Award for Best Story.
Through her writings and cinematic adaptations, Manasi has emerged as a significant voice in Indian literature, challenging societal constructs and advocating for a more nuanced understanding of women's identities and experiences.