Eminent writers and historians gather in Kozhikode to launch ‘Dandiyathrayile Malayali Satyagrahikal’ published by Mathrubhumi Books, featuring endorsements from Tushar Gandhi and Dr. Siby K. Joseph.
KOZHIKODE, KERALAM: Mathrubhumi Books hosted the launch function for ‘Dandiyathrayile Malayali Satyagrahikal’ (Malayali Satyagrahis in the Dandi March), a ground-breaking historical work authored by historian TomMelukavu on August 7, 2026. The formal book unveiling took place during a high-profile cultural gathering at the iconic K.P. Kesava Menon Hall in Kozhikode.
The first copy of the book was officially unveiled by the celebrated Malayalam author Subhash Chandran, who presented it to the acclaimed novelist and essayist K.P. Ramanunni.
The event marks a significant milestone in regional historiography, introducing crucial, long-overlooked accounts of Kerala’s participation in the Indian independence movement.
Restoring Forgotten Names to the National Narrative
The core objective of the book is to give a distinct identity to the five specific Malayalis who were among Mahatma Gandhi’s chosen 78 marchers, but whose names have historically remained mere footnotes in mainstream Indian history textbooks:
• Thappan Nair
• Titus Thevarthundiyil (Titusji)
• K. Sankaran Ezhuthachan
• N. P. Raghavan Poduval
• C. Krishnan Nair
Power of Gandhian Philosophy
Speaking at the function, chief guest Subhash Chandran emphasized the enduring power of Gandhian philosophy. “The absolute greatness of Mahatma Gandhi’s vision remains clear, untarnished, and profoundly relevant to modern society, completely untouched by the passage of time,” Chandran stated.
He further emphasized that Gandhi’s ‘Rishitvam’ (sage-like righteousness and spiritual values) should actively be followed in modern politics. Highlighting the continuity of non-violent resistance, he added that recent strikes by the Gen Z generation have directly mirrored and adopted Gandhi’s model of struggle.
While receiving the book’s first copy, K.P. Ramanunni lauded the author’s meticulous historical documentation. He pointed out a major gap in mainstream Indian history, noting that these great Malayali satyagrahis who marched alongside Gandhi in the historic Dandi Salt March of 1930 had been entirely omitted from recorded national history records. “This book serves a monumental purpose: it distinctively identifies, honours, and permanently records these forgotten heroes of Kerala who sacrificed for our national freedom without seeking recognition,” Ramanunni remarked.
National and Academic Endorsements
The historical significance of the work is duly endorsed byprominent national figures and leading Gandhian scholars:
• Tushar Arun Gandhi, the great-grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, in his message highly commended the release, stating:
“This book is a significant document in history. It needs to be widely read. The centenary of the Dandi March is approaching. As we celebrate the centenary, this book will pave the way for Kerala to specially honor these Malayali heroes. This adds to the relevance of this work.”
• Dr. Siby K. Joseph, Director of the Sri Jamnalal Bajaj Memorial Library and Research Centre for Gandhian Studies at the historic Sevagram Ashram Pratishthan located in Wardha, Maharashtra, observed:
“Mainstream history books usually focus on the grand national scale of this massive uprising, which often leaves the personal stories of regional fighters in the shadows. Tom Melukavu’s book, ‘Malayali Satyagrahis in the Dandi March: The Freedom Fighters Unrecorded in History’, brilliantly fills this gap by bringing to light the sacrifices of the five overlooked heroes from Kerala who walked every step of the way alongside Gandhi.”
Event Conclusion
The launch ceremony was presided over by Prof. T.P. Kunjikannan, who addressed the cultural necessity of documenting micro-histories.
Prof. M.C. Vasisht delivered a comprehensive introduction to the book’s content, highlighting its high archival value for future generations. The event concluded with an expression of gratitude from the author, Tom Melukavu, who thanked Mathrubhumi Books and the research community for helping bring these hidden historical narratives to light.
‘Dandiyathrayile Malayali Satyagrahikal’ is now widely available at all major bookstores and leading online channels through Mathrubhumi Books Distribution. This 140-page historical volume is priced at ₹230, and you can order a copy by calling +91 7736806280.
