Renowned Keralite writer K.P Ramanunni released "Alakkukallu," an anthology of poems in Malayalam, written by Muhammad Kutty Elambilakode at a function held at Shifa Jeddah auditorium in Shrafifyyah, Jeddah, recently. Shelna Vijay, a noted dance teacher in the city, received a copy of the book from Ramanunni, who was in the Kingdom for a short visit. Ramanunni said the poems of Elambilakode disseminate true humane values. "The poet interacts with the outside world with passion and a quest for the prevalence of virtue through abundant use of imagery from nature, including rivers, rivulets and forests. His poems advocate preservation of a nature where humans and other creatures lead a harmonious life, away from the hurly-burly of modern life full of pretensions and hypocrisy," he said. C.K Hassan Koya, news editor of Malayalam News daily, inaugurated the function, chaired by well-known short story writer Abu Irrigattiri. The book launch was organized by Saudi Malayali Samajam, a literary forum of Keralite cultural activists. Those who felicitated the poet Elambilakode included Musafir, Dr. Ismail Maritheri, C.K. Muhammed Najeeb, P. Shamshuddin, Jaleel Kannamangalam, A.M Sajth, Sharief Sagar, C.K Shakir and Rasak Edavanakkad. Elambilakode, a journalist with Malayalam News daily, also spoke on the occasion. Aruvi Mongam welcomed the gathering and Salam proposed a vote of thanks. Famous local singer Sayed Mashhood Thangal read some of Elambilakode's poems.
