The Save University Campaign Committee (SUCC) has raised concerns over the abrupt cancellation of the release event for “Sri Tirthapada Puranam,” an extensive 11-volume biography of Chattambi Swamikal, authored by A.V. Sankaran and published by the Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit (SSUS). The highly anticipated release was scheduled to coincide with the ‘samadhi’ celebrations of Chattambi Swamikal at Panmana Ashram in Kollam on April 19. However, the event was called off when Vice-Chancellor Ciza Thomas discovered that only four volumes had been printed, while the remaining volumes, which were bound and placed within a slipcase, were blank.
SUCC leader R.S. Sasikumar expressed significant disappointment over the incident, labeling it a serious embarrassment for the university. He called for a thorough investigation to ascertain how this oversight occurred. V. Lissy Mathew, a Professor in the Malayalam department and co-ordinator of the project, confirmed that the administration had been informed that printing for only four of the volumes was completed, raising questions about the overall management of the project.
The controversy surrounding the cancellation highlights concerns about the university’s operational efficiency and its ability to manage significant literary projects effectively. Chattambi Swamikal, an influential figure in Kerala’s spiritual history, deserves a fitting tribute, and the mishap has drawn public scrutiny regarding the university’s commitment to honoring such legacies.
As calls for accountability intensify, the SUCC aims to ensure that transparency is prioritized within the university’s administration. The incident underscores a pressing need for better communication and oversight in project management, especially for initiatives that pay homage to foundational cultural figures. As the university community reflects on this situation, all stakeholders hope for a swift resolution that restores the integrity of both the institution and its significant projects.
This cancellation has not only disappointed literary enthusiasts but has also sparked a broader conversation about the challenges faced by academic institutions in delivering quality work. The planned release of “Sri Tirthapada Puranam” was intended to be a significant contribution to the region’s literary canon and spiritual heritage, making this mismanagement even more regrettable.
While the focus remains on resolving this issue, stakeholders are hopeful that lessons will be learned to prevent similar incidents in the future. The university is now under pressure to clarify its procedures and ensure that such oversights do not tarnish the reputation of the institution.
As this story develops, the SUCC and the broader academic community await answers and a renewed commitment to excellence in honoring Kerala’s cultural figures. The hope is that the eventual release of the biography will still serve as a meaningful tribute to Chattambi Swamikal, celebrating his contributions and enduring legacy despite the setback.
Published – April 23, 2026, 01:35 am IST
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/probe-sought-into-unfinished-book-on-chattambiswamikal/article70893636.ece
Category : Kerala
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Publish Date: 2026-04-23 01:35:00
