Prominent Figures of the Kerala Church-73
Chembil John
Chembil John Born on October 13, 1927, as the youngest of four children to Mathew and Theresia in the Chembu St. Thomas Catholic Church parish, Chembil John captured the attention of Malayalis through his works in drama, storytelling, and novels. Having only received a basic education, John excelled in various literary fields and garnered respect from fellow writers, establishing a unique personal imprint in every area he worked.
John’s artistic journey began with storytelling, after which he shifted to literary pursuits. His first work was the play Kallasannyasi, published by the S.H. League from the Aluva Mangalappuzha seminary. The play was initiated by Fr. Joseph Muttumani, who was then the vicar of Chembupally, and it was edited and published by Mar Sebastian Mankuzhikary, who later became the auxiliary bishop of Ernakulam.
In 1957, at the All Kerala Catholic Youth Festival held in Ernakulam, John received second prize in a playwriting competition at both the diocese and state levels for his play Manushyan Narakam Srishtikkunnu, which addressed social issues like dowry and aimed to stir human conscience.
John’s plays gained popularity, prompting various publications to seek his literary works. He then turned to writing longer stories and novels, resulting in over sixty books being published by different publishing houses in Kerala, including four plays. The play Swargam Aarambhikkunnu had a prominent introduction written by Mr. Muttathuvarkey. Many of John’s stories were featured in prominent periodicals, attracting countless readers. All India Radio aired both his short stories and songs, and children’s poems appeared in Balayugam, edited by the cartoonist Yesudas.
He also ventured into filmmaking with works like Kalyana Photo, Kottayam Kolakkese, Amrutachumbanam, and Nadan Penn. His stories appeared in special editions of numerous publications, including Manorama, Mathrubhumi, and Deepika.
John’s books were published by various institutions such as Malayala Manorama, MM Publications, Kerala Bhooshanam Book House, and several others.
John’s wife is Chinnamma, daughter of Varkey and Annama from Vaikom Koodelell.
