Prominent Figures of the Kerala Church -127 L. Kizhakkedam

Prominent Figures of the Kerala Church -127

L. Kizhakkedam

L. Kizhakkedam, born on March 22, 1931, at Karimpali in Arppookara village, near Kottayam, grew up in the cultural and intellectual milieu shaped by the diverse influences of Kottayam, Mannanam, and Kudamalloor. His literary creations were driven by the goal of fostering human life development through values like culture, humanity, and spirituality. His father, Mr. Lukos, was a lawyer and a long-time educator, and his mother, Annamma, hailed from the Changanassery Kuttampereur Chakkalaykkal family. L. Kizhakkedam’s father passed away when he was just a month old, and he was raised under the care of his mother.

Kizhakkedam’s education began at the renowned Thonnankuzhi Government Primary School, where he studied under the guidance of C. Alphonsa. He later attended the Kudamalloor Government Malayalam Middle School, Mannanam St. Ephrem’s High School, and Kottayam CMS College, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He also worked as a teacher at Ernakulam St. Albert’s High School and later at Kandanad St. Mary’s High School, retiring in 1985.

His late father had a vast library, much of which consisted of English books. Though Kizhakkedam did not read them immediately, he developed a habit of looking at pictures and slowly fostered a passion for reading. This habit was crucial in developing his love for reading and literary pursuits.

During his high school years, he began writing poetry, plays, stories, and essays. He gained recognition in literary circles as a speaker and won several awards for his public speaking.

While still in high school, he started writing literature. His first short story was published in Sathyadeepam when he was in the 9th standard. At that time, the editor of Sathyadeepam was Fr. Joseph Achchan, who was later elevated to the position of Cardinal. The editor congratulated Kizhakkedam, and the school headmaster, Fr. Aurelius, sent him a letter of appreciation, which became a source of pride for him. Later, his works were published in Karmalakushumam, a local magazine, with encouragement from teachers and priests of the Mannanam Ashram.

He wrote stories and articles for several publications, including Karmalakushumam from Mannanam, Vanitharamam, Jaya Bharatham, Deepika, Manorama Weekly, Kerala Times, Prakasham from Kozhikode, Kudumbadeepam, Amma, and many others. For nearly 25 years, he contributed articles for children in Sathyadeepam.

Kizhakkedam was an active member of the Kerala Sahithya Parishad’s Executive Committee and also served as a member of the editorial board of the Ernakulam St. Paul’s Publications. He worked alongside B. Hormis C.M.I. to organize Catholic writers and even convened a conference of Catholic writers at Tevara College Hall. He was also part of efforts to organize Catholic writers in Palarivattom, Ernakulam, and participated in the follow-up committees.

His first published work was in 1959, which was a translation of V. Patham Piyus’s biography. This book earned widespread appreciation. His subsequent works included Pavangalude Pathalavan (The Pope John XXIII), Vellathamara (The Life Story of Blessed Alphonsa), Joan of Arc, Punhirikkunna Papa, Kudumbajeevithakathakal, Charismatic Navikaranathinte Kaathal, Irupathu Baalakathakal (Twenty Children’s Stories), Vijayathakkalude Kathakal (Stories of Victorious Souls), Rolandinte Kathakal (Stories of Roland), Snehapaniyam (The Drink of Love), and many others.

Kizhakkedam was honored with the prestigious AKCC Literary Award in 1998 for his contributions to value-based literary work.

Throughout his education years, Kizhakkedam was actively involved in parish organizations and religious teaching. He was a prominent member of the Vincent de Paul Society and served as the college union speaker for one year. He also worked as the secretary of the Catholic Students’ Organization in college and was the Ernakulam District Secretary of the Teachers’ Organization (PSTA), where he made significant contributions.

In his later years, Kizhakkedam continued to work in various Christian community organizations like the Pastoral Council, Parish Council, and Family Unit. His wife, Annamma, hails from the Kurishingal Mathew family of Ampalloor Parish.

Kizhakkedam’s life and work reflect a commitment to spirituality, culture, and education. His legacy as a writer and community leader is marked by his enduring contributions to literature and the church.