The 17th episode of the Literary Lens programme, conducted by the Literary Club of MITC Ponnani, featured a review of P. Padmarajan’s Udakappola, presented by Bhavana, a B.Ed. student from the 2024-2026 batch. The session, held via Google Meet on 6th September 2024 at 7:30 PM, provided a detailed exploration of the novella’s central themes and literary elements.
Bhavana began by introducing the legendary writer P. Padmarajan, highlighting his dual contributions to Malayalam literature and cinema. She emphasized how his works are known for their psychological depth and nuanced portrayal of human emotions. Bhavana set the stage for the review by providing a brief overview of Udakappola’s plot, which revolves around a man torn between his wife and his lover, delving into themes of love, guilt, and emotional conflict.
A significant part of Bhavana’s review focused on the symbolism of the title Udakappola, meaning “Water Bubble.” She insightfully connected this metaphor to the fragile nature of human relationships, drawing parallels between the delicate balance of emotions in the story and the fleeting existence of a water bubble. Bhavana also highlighted Padmarajan’s skillful use of language and vivid descriptions that capture the subtlety of the characters’ inner lives.
The review further analyzed the psychological complexity of the characters, particularly the man’s internal struggle and the contrasting personalities of the wife and lover. Bhavana praised Padmarajan’s ability to portray human flaws and vulnerabilities, making each character relatable. She also discussed the narrative’s pacing, noting how the gradual build-up of tension keeps the reader engaged.
In her conclusion, Bhavana shared her personal reflections on Udakappola, mentioning how Padmarajan’s work remains timeless in its relevance to modern-day relationships. She concluded the review by encouraging attendees to explore more of Padmarajan’s writings to appreciate his mastery in storytelling.
The session was interactive, with participants engaging in a lively discussion about the novella’s themes and the enduring legacy of Padmarajan. The review ended with positive feedback for Bhavana’s insightful presentation.
Overall, the 17th episode of Literary Lens was a thought-provoking exploration of Udakappola, effectively highlighting Padmarajan’s literary genius