The Literary Association of North America (LANA) held its three-day regional convention in Leesburg, Virginia, from Sept. 25-27, bringing together writers, poets, literary enthusiasts and families for discussions, readings, cultural performances and book releases.
The convention took place at Caradoc Hall Hotel. In memory of the late George Mannikkarott, one of LANA’s early office-bearers and a noted literary figure, the venue was named “George Mannikkarott Nagar.”
The chief guests were Zacharia, a leading contemporary Malayalam writer and short-story writer; novelist V. J. James; and Dr. Anita Nahal, a writer and teacher.
It was the first time LANA held its convention in the Washington, D.C., region. Organizers highlighted the participation of association members, literature enthusiasts and friends, as well as a special English-language session aimed at encouraging younger generations to explore literature.
Opening session and poetry events
Short-story writer Paul Zacharia inaugurated the convention at 5 p.m. Friday, paying tribute to the late writers George Mannikkarott and P. T. Paulose. Novelist V. J. James delivered the keynote address on “Spirituality in Atheism.”
LANA office-bearers and former presidents offered greetings. Sushma Praveen sang a song in memory of the late S. Janaki.
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After dinner, a poetry panel discussion explored the topic “Does Poetry Change When the Reader Changes?” Jayan K. C. moderated the discussion, with Santhosh Pala, Theresa Tom, Raju Thomas, Usha Nair and Uma Raveendran participating.
The poetry program began with Devki Pullanchodan reciting “Viswadarshanam,” a poem by Mahakavi G. Sankara Kurup. Rahimabi Moideen then moderated a poetry session in which LANA members recited their own work.
On Saturday morning, Meenu Elizabeth spoke in memory of George Mannikkarott, while Raju Thomas paid tribute to P. T. Paulose.
Discussions on short stories and novels
The short-story session opened with remarks by Zacharia. V. J. James read and evaluated stories submitted by LANA members.
A panel discussion titled “The Evolution of Stories in the Land of Immigration” followed. Anilal Srinivasan moderated the discussion, which included Philip Thomas, K. V. Praveen, Rafeeq Tharayil, Rajesh Thekkenmar, Shaju John and Divya Menon.
Another discussion, “The Malayalam Novel Beyond Kerala,” was moderated by Sheila M. P. Participants included Manohar Thomas, John Elamatha, Samsi Koduman, Baji Odamveli, Abdul Punnayurkulam, Ashok Kumar and Abhinash Thundumannil.
Sessions on humorous literature and a laughter program were led by Raju Mylapra, Jayanth Kamicheril and John Elamatha.
English session engages younger generation
An English-language session led by Dr. Anita Nahal brought together more than 30 children interested in literature, with parents also taking part. The session aimed to encourage young people to pursue their literary interests and provide them with guidance and support.
Organizers described the session as an important step toward LANA’s long-term goal of connecting language, literature and generations, while encouraging greater participation by second-generation members.
Book releases and literary awards
The convention featured the release of four Malayalam books and three English books. Six books published by LANA members during the year were also introduced in detail.
A traveling library featuring an extensive collection of books by Malayalam writers in America held an exhibition at the convention hall.
The Kerala Literary Society presented its Manayil Jacob Poetry Award to Rahimabi Moideen, the Abraham Thekkemuri Story Award to Anilal Srinivasan, and the KLS Special Jury Story Award to Divya Menon.
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Dr. P. C. Nair, a recipient of the Vallathol Award in the expatriate category, and novelist Neena Panakkal were honored with ceremonial shawls and plaques for their contributions to Malayalam literature in America.
Salil Sankaran, president of Ampcus Inc., was also honored with a shawl and plaque in recognition of the company’s role as the convention’s golden sponsor.
Writer Sini Panicker served as master of ceremonies for the opening and closing sessions.
Cultural program and closing meeting
Saturday’s cultural evening featured light music and film songs performed by Aparna Panicker, Narayanankutty Menon and Devki Pullanchodan. Geethu Nirmal and her troupe presented a theatrical musical performance.
Praveen Kumar, Santhosh Thuruthi and Vigil Bose jointly staged “Theen Meshayile Durantham,” a play scripted by Sulaiman Kakkodi.
At LANA’s general body meeting on Sunday, Sept. 27, Secretary Nirmala Joseph presented the annual report, while Treasurer Haridas Thankappan presented the income and expenditure statement. Members decided to hold the next annual convention in New York.
The regional convention committee coordinated the event under the leadership of writer and novelist Venugopalan Kokkodan, the committee chairman, and Shino Kurian, the committee convener.