Thiruvananthapuram, July 4 (IANS) Popular Malayalam classic 'Aranazhikaneram' is to be serialised into 40 episodes. The Kerala Sahithya Academy Award winning novel of K.E. Mathai, whose pen-name is 'Parapurath', was a big hit in Kerala as it became film in 1970. Noted actor Kottarakara played the lead role in the movie.

Shyama Prasad, chief of programmes of Amrita TV, said the serial would be aired from July 7 and this would be the first in the series in their new programme titled 'Classic Stories'.

Indicating a different kind of treatment of novel when it is serialised, Prasad told reporters that the theme of the novel would not be changed.

"This is a reinterpretation of the novel and would have a different line as compared to the film. In other words, it is recreation," said Shivmohan Thampi, director of the serial.

Expressing happiness over the project, son of the late writer, Sam Parapurath said, "Through this many who have not read the novel or seen the film can relive it through the TV."

Noted Malayalam film actor Murali plays the role that handled Kottarakara in the black and white movie. The serial is going to be a treat to watch the lush greenery of 'Thazhava' a typical Kerala village near Alapuzha.

Over the years, the novel is also a prescribed text book for the Malayalam BA and MA course in the universities in Kerala.

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