Vadakke Koottala Narayanankutty Nair, or VKN, was a seminal figure in Malayalam literature, known for his groundbreaking satire and linguistic dexterity. Born on April 6, 1932, in Thiruvilwamala, Kerala, VKN entered the literary scene in 1955 and quickly gained renown for his ability to weave multi-layered humor and trenchant social critique into his works. His writing style, which seamlessly blended languages like Malayalam, English, Hindi, and Tamil, demanded a discerning reader capable of grasping his intricate wordplay and cultural references. Beyond his literary achievements, VKN was esteemed for his wide-ranging knowledge spanning fields such as agriculture, philosophy, and art.

During his nine-year tenure with the Malabar Devasom Board and subsequent stint as an English journalist in New Delhi from 1959 to 1969, VKN honed his keen observations of society, which found expression in his acclaimed work "Arohanam." Despite his genius, VKN's writings often confounded Malayalam critics, who struggled to fully grasp his style. Nevertheless, his legacy endures as a testament to his innovative storytelling and insightful social commentary. VKN passed away on January 25, 2004, leaving behind a rich literary heritage that continues to captivate readers.