Sithara S.


Sithara S. is an Indian writer in Malayalam from Kerala. She often highlighted women's issues, gender conflict and lesbian rights in her books. She is also a translator.

Early life and education

Sithara was born and brought up in Kasaragod district of Kerala. She obtained her post-graduation degree in English Literature and Diploma in journalism from University of Calicut. At an early age she was afflicted with life-threatening cancer disease. She attributes her firebrand literary style to her lifelong battle against cancer and social stigma.

Literary works

Sithara is one of the leading contemporary women writers from Kerala. She has written several best-selling books in Malayalam which include "Kathakal", "Idam", "Veshappakarcha" and "Ushnagrahangalude Sneham". She chiefly writes stories depicting oppression of women and sexuality in public places. Her stories capture the complexities of modern life from women's perspective and have an angry and defiant tone.
Sithara has also translated the works of Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai into Malayalam. Her short story "Fire" has been included in the English Literature syllabus of Kerala University.

Other contributions

Sithara's short story Agni has been made into a popular movie. She is also a freelance content writer on children's topics for television.

Awards and recognition

Sithara's works were recognised by Sahitya Akademi which conferred on her its golden jubilee prize in 2004. She has also won Kerala Sahitya Akademi award. Besides he has won numerous other literary awards including ‘’Katha Award’’ and ‘’Geetha Hiranyan Endowment Award’’ for Malayalam literature.

Books in English

  • Books in Malayalam

  • Chapters in books

  • Journal articles

  • Translations

  • Enteyum Katha, DC Books