JEDDAH : Nostalgia, childhood innocence and the treasured moments of a bygone generation took centre stage with the release of ‘Poombatta Chirakulla Pavadaakkari’ (The Girl in the Butterfly-Winged Skirt), a Malayalam memoir by debut author Immu Haseenu (Haseena Rasheed), at a literary gathering in Jeddah. Through a tapestry of personal recollections, the book revisits the joys, adventures, innocence and emotional experiences of childhood and adolescence. Hailing from Parappur, Kottakkal, Malappuram, and settled in Jeddah, Immu Haseenu made her maiden entry into the literary world, translating her cherished memories into a published work. The launch ceremony was held at the Quality Auditorium, Sharafiya, in the presence of prominent personalities from Jeddah’s literary, social and cultural fraternity.
Introducing the publication, Pyari Mirza described the memoir as a delightful repository of childhood experiences, capturing the curiosity, innocence and fascinating discoveries of formative years. She observed that the narrative takes readers down memory lane, bringing together precious recollections like colourful manjadikuru (red lucky seeds) scattered across the garden of nostalgia. Dr. Indu Chandrasekhar formally released the book by handing over its first copy to Kabeer Kondotty, Chairman of Jeddah Kerala Pouravali. Reflecting on the publication, Dr. Indu said that its narrative stirred memories of her own schooldays, reviving the sweetness and occasional hardships, mischievous escapades and carefree moments that defined her childhood.
Commending the author’s remarkable ability to recreate the atmosphere of a bygone era, Kabeer Kondotty observed that the cultural practices, familiar artefacts and social traditions portrayed in the book represent merely the tip of the iceberg, with countless forgotten customs and fascinating experiences still awaiting literary exploration. Noting their significance for younger generations, he wished the author continued success and expressed hope that she would unveil many more captivating narratives in her future literary endeavours. The gathering opened with musical performances by Mirza Shareef and Sofiya Sunil. Saleena Musafir welcomed the audience, while Musafir Elamkulath presided over the function.
Rejiya Veeran, Jyothi Babukumar, Abdullah Mukkanni, Shameela Moosa, Jaffer Ali Palakkode, Mumtaz Paloli, Najeeb Venjaramoodu, Ali Arikkath, Ayoob Musliyarakath, Advocate Shamsudeen, Shaju Athanikkal, Asain Illikkal, Hamza Madari and Meelas Mullampara, among others, conveyed their congratulations and extended their best wishes. In her address, Immu Haseenu recounted the experiences that inspired her writing, the evolution of her literary interests and the journey behind her debut publication. Emphasising the importance of holding fast to one’s dreams, she reflected on how perseverance and an enduring passion for writing had enabled her to fulfil a long-cherished ambition. She expressed heartfelt appreciation to her family and friends for their constant encouragement, affection and invaluable support in bringing her literary dream to fruition.
Nisar Madavoor efficiently coordinated the proceedings, ensuring that everything was in place and the programme ran smoothly, while Shaji Thumbath delivered the vote of thanks. The organisers had clearly got their ducks in a row, contributing to the seamless conduct of the event. Beyond its literary significance, the book serves as a gentle bridge between generations, preserving the sights, sounds and sentiments of a childhood that time can never reclaim. For though years may pass and generations change, the memories of childhood remain timeless treasures, forever illuminating the innermost chambers of the human heart.
M Siraj
