Satchidanandan to step back from public life, citing amnesia; commits to writing ‘as long as memory allows’ : Valley Vision
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Renowned poet and award-winning author K. Satchidanandan has announced his gradual withdrawal from public engagements, citing health concerns stemming from a recurring memory disorder. In a Facebook post, Satchidanandan revealed his decision to retire from public life, detailing a seven-year struggle with transient global amnesia, for which he has been on medication.
The poet disclosed that he was hospitalized for five days recently following a relapse, which he attributed to the pressures of an intense schedule in October.
“Friends, I suffered from transient global amnesia seven years ago and have been taking medication (Levipil 500, twice daily) since. The condition had not returned until November 1, when I experienced a new episode. I had symptoms like numbness in my legs, trembling hands, difficulty speaking, and memory loss. Although these symptoms were brief, I remained hospitalized for five days,” he explained in his post.
“October was filled with travel and events, and doctors believe stress is the primary reason for this recurrence. I have therefore decided to gradually step away from public life, reducing travel and public speaking. After over 60 years, I have come to believe that, since the times of Christ and Buddha, no one’s speech has truly changed the world; it often seems like a waste of time. Going forward, I will limit myself to select poetry events, which nourish my spirit, and a few Akademi duties until my term ends. Please understand if I decline other invitations,” he added.
He further stated, “I will continue to write as long as memory, reading, and imagination remain with me, though they, too, may fade at any time.”
A prominent figure in Indian literature, Satchidanandan served as Secretary of the Sahitya Akademi and has made significant contributions to poetry, criticism, drama, travel writing, and translation. Since beginning his literary career in 1970, he has published numerous works in Malayalam, English, Hindi, and Slovenian, and edited various magazines and anthologies. He has represented India at several national and international literary events.
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