 'Kalki' R Krishnamurthy (1899 - 1954) Ra. "Kalki" Krishnamurthy (September 9, 1899 - December 5, 1954) was a famous Indian writer in Tamil and a social activist inspired by Mahatma Gandhi. Krishnamurthy wrote social and semi-historical novels primarily under the pseudonym "Kalki", occasionally writing under others as well, during the early part of the 20th century.
The name Kalki denotes the impending tenth Avatar of Lord Vishnu in the Hindu religion, who it is said, will bring to an end the Kali Yuga and reinstate Dharma or righteoueness among the worldly beings. He used the name because like the Avatar he wanted to bring about great changes, and also in honor of his mentor Kalyana Sundaram Mudaliar, taking the "Kal" from his name and the "Ki" from his own. In 1941 he founded the Tamil magazine Kalki and was its editor until his death. He is often referred to as "Kalki Krishnamurthy" or simply "Kalki".
He specialised in the semi-historic genre, where he blended ancient tales, legends and historic facts with fictional escapades to produce epics. The following are his most famous in this category:
- Ponniyin Selvan (The son of Ponni)
- Sivagamiyin Sabadham (The vow of Sivagami)
- Parthiban Kanavu (The dream of Parthiban)
He also wrote social novels, which dealt with social awakening, rights and the Indian independence movement. His most famous in this genre were.
- Alai Osai (The sound of the waves)
- Thyaga Bhoomi (The Land of sacrifice)
He was also a great patron of Carnatic music. He wrote his criticisms under the pseudonym Karnatakam. He also penned many songs and lyrics, most of which were adapted into Carnatic Music.
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