Even the scientifically minded are consulting ‘Rahu and Ketu’, says Keralam writer Vaishakhan

Renowned writer Vaishakhan has expressed concern over the growing influence of superstition even among people with scientific awareness, saying society appears to be entering an era when “even those with scientific temper are looking at Rahu and Ketu”.

He was speaking after receiving the V.K. Narayanabhattathiri Memorial Award instituted by the Sree Kerala Varma Public Library, Wadakkanchery, on Sunday.

Mr. Vaishakhan said literature had once played a powerful role in shaping social consciousness, but literary works were no longer receiving the serious and sustained study they deserved.

“Reading is the most important factor in nurturing imagination,” he said, adding that inadequate and sometimes distorted interpretations of literary works could lead to their being misunderstood.