At Madras Christian College, a unique workshop by Dr S Muthukandhan empowers 52 visually challenged students to become published writers, igniting confidence and creativity despite declining reading trends.

G Vishal, a third year visually impaired Tamil Literature student at the premier Madras Christian College is excited. He has become a published writer. “Ennam Ezhuththaadal – I, a book published by the college carries three of his literary works – a poem, a short story and an article. 

In another part of the campus, Dharanidharan a final year History student too is equally upbeat with his work too becoming part of the book. 

Amid decline in reading and writing, a conscious attempt by Assistant Professor of Tamil Dr S Muthukandhan has resulted in 52 visually challenged students turn writers.

The transformation came after a two day tailor made workshop on campus he developed with.

22 modules on creative writing and getting  motivated to write. At the end of it participants are required to write and Muthukandhan got  them published as a book after due literary scrutiny and refinement.

Vishal says “Now I want to experiment writing more. I’ve got the confidence that I have the talent in me to write.” Dharanidharan adds “It was an amazing experience to see my name listed among contributors. The workshop was magical”.

An author of 25 books including short stories, novels, poetry and plays, Muthukandhan was inspired to write by eminent faculty on campus and Artists including  Chandru, Muthukandhan says moulded him to be a good writer. “I don’t want writing to be a Siddha secret. I want to teach them and I believe, at least 4 or 5 of these students could become good writers”.

Enthused by this, he has brought out a similar book with contributions by women students, empowered by his workshop. His long term vision is to continue research on writing and  develop a “Framework for Writing”.