One of the most influential figures in Malayalam comic literature, Kannadi Viswanathan, has passed away at the age of 93.He is best known for creating iconic characters such as ‘CID Moosa’ and ‘Irumbukayi Mayavi’.As reported by Kerala Kaumudi, born as Viswanathan Nair, he was a resident of Kannadi Prabha Mandiram in Palakkad. He authored nearly 123 comic books.
Creator of memorable characters and stories
Viswanathan wrote under the pen name Kannadi Viswanathan. Most of his works were detective-based and became hugely popular among young readers. His most celebrated titles include ‘Irumbukayi Mayavi’, ‘CID Moosa’, ‘CID Mahesh’, and ‘Boeing Boeing’. His early works also included ‘Irumpukai Mayavi’, ‘Sarpadweep’, and ‘Manjukatta Rahasyam’ which were translated from Tamil. His final published comic book was ‘Shoonyakashthile Kshudrajeevi’ which was released in 1983. He was also credited with popular expressions such as “Tamar Pathar,” which became familiar to generations of readers.
Journey from tailor to comic book pioneer
Born in 1932 in Kannadi, Palakkad, Viswanathan was the son of Achuthan Nair, a headmaster at Chungamandam School, and Devaki Amma. He left school while studying in the 10th standard and moved to Chennai where he worked as a tailor.He returned to Palakkad at the age of 32 and opened a tailoring shop in the building that housed Achuthan Book House in Kunnathurmedu. A turning point came when the book house owner asked whether he could translate comics.
Family and final rites
Kannadi Viswanathan is survived by his wife Sharada, daughters Renuka and Shobha, and sons-in-law Aravindan and Hariprasad. His cremation will take place at the Chandranagar Electric Crematorium.
Tributes pour in on social media
News of his demise prompted an outpouring of tributes from readers and admirers. One heartfelt message read, “A heartfelt farewell to Kannadi Viswanathan. A face and voice that carried warmth, humour, and timeless charm for generations of Malayali audiences. Beyond the screen, his contributions to Malayalam pop culture were truly unforgettable, especially as the creator of the iconic CID Moosa comics and for bringing Irumbukai Mayavi to Malayali readers through his beloved Malayalam translations. Though he may no longer be with us, the memories, laughter, imagination, and emotions he gave through his art will continue to live on forever across generations. Rest in peace, legend.” Another tribute simply stated, “Pranamam.”
