Balachandran Chullikkad

Biography:

Balachandran Chullikkad, born on July 30, 1957, is a versatile Indian figure known for his work as a poet, orator, lyricist, and actor in the Malayalam-language media.

Born in Paravur, Ernakulam, Kerala, India, Chullikkad completed his graduation in English literature from Union Christian College, Aluva, and Maharajas College, Ernakulam.

As a poet, Chullikkad has published several collections of poems, including “Pathinettu Kavithakal,” “Amaavaasi,” “Ghazal,” “Maanasaantharam,” and “Dracula.” He has also authored a book of memoirs titled “Chidambarasmarana” in 2001.

Chullikkad has actively participated in national literary seminars and represented Indian poetry internationally, including at the international book fair in Gothenburg, Sweden.

Apart from his literary pursuits, Chullikkad is also known for his work as an actor in Malayalam films and serials. One of his notable roles was in G. Aravindan’s film “Pokkuveyil” (1981).

In 2018, he criticized the state education department for its shortcomings in teaching the Malayalam language and urged the removal of his poems from curricula due to concerns about the quality of education and evaluation.

Chullikkad is married to Vijayalakshmi, also a poet, and they have a son named Appu. In 2000, he embraced Buddhism, citing dissatisfaction with the social status and setups inherent in Hinduism.

Politically, Chullikkad has expressed his views on various social and cultural issues, advocating for quality education and criticizing caste, religion, and political influence in educational institutions.