Sreedharan Champad (1938-2024) wasn’t your typical writer. He wasn’t just a man of words, but a man of action, a circus artist who soared through the air with the grace of a bird. His life, a captivating blend of adventure, artistry, and literary brilliance, serves as an inspiration to dream big and explore uncharted territories.

From College Halls to Circus Tents: An Unexpected Turn

Born P.K. Sreedharan in 1938, Champad’s early life seemed destined for academia. He enrolled at Devagiri College in Kozhikode but financial constraints forced him to leave his studies behind. This twist of fate, however, led him to Madras (now Chennai), where his life took a remarkable turn. In 1956, a young Sreedharan found himself drawn to the vibrant world of the circus. He started at the Great Rayman Circus in Howrah as an office clerk, but the call of the spotlight was too strong to ignore. Soon, he transformed from an office worker to a daring trapeze artist, captivating audiences with his aerial acrobatics.

A Life Under the Canvas: The Circus Years

The circus became Champad’s second home. He honed his skills, performing with renowned companies like Jumbo, Gemini, Amar, and the Great Eastern Circus. Life under the big top was a whirlwind of excitement and challenge. He mastered the art of the trapeze, defying gravity with every swing and leap. But the circus wasn’t just about performing. It was a community, a family of artists and performers who shared a unique bond. Champad’s experiences during this time would later provide him with rich material for his writing.

A Brief Departure and a Return to Passion

Not all journeys are linear. In 1961, Champad faced a setback. Rejected for a Malaysian tour with the Great Eastern Circus, he decided to explore a different path. He embarked on a two-year journey into the world of automobiles, studying engineering and working as a mechanic. However, the allure of the circus proved irresistible. He returned to Kerala, this time not as a performer, but as an auto rickshaw driver. Yet, the creative spirit within him continued to flicker.

A Multifaceted Talent Emerges: The Writer Awakens

While driving his auto, Champad began to channel his experiences into stories. He found an outlet for his creativity in writing, a new skill that would redefine his life. His debut short story marked the beginning of a prolific literary career. Champad went on to write over 20 books, encompassing novels, short stories, biographies, and insightful articles. His writing resonated with readers, capturing the essence of human emotions and the complexities of life.

Chronicling a Legacy: An Album of Indian Big Tops

Champad’s love for the circus never faded. He saw himself not just as a writer, but as a custodian of the Indian circus tradition. His magnum opus, “An Album of Indian Big Tops: (History of Indian Circus),” stands as a testament to this dedication. This comprehensive book chronicles the evolution of the Indian circus industry from 1880 to 2010. Through meticulous research and interviews with prominent circus figures, Champad created an invaluable resource that preserves the rich history of Indian circus arts.

Beyond the Page: Contributions to Cinema and Media

Champad’s influence extended beyond the realm of literature. He ventured into the world of cinema, contributing scripts that brought his stories to life on the silver screen. He also served as the Editor-in-Chief of Padayani Weekly, a Malayalam publication, further solidifying his position as a prominent figure in the cultural landscape of Kerala.

A Life of Recognition and Legacy

Champad’s achievements were not left unnoticed. He received the prestigious Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award for Overall Contributions, a recognition of his immense contribution to Malayalam literature. His life story is a testament to the power of embracing diverse experiences and letting curiosity guide your path.

The Enduring Legacy of Sreedharan Champad

Sreedharan Champad’s life transcended the boundaries of the ordinary. He was a circus artist who defied gravity, a writer who captured the essence of life, and a historian who preserved a fading art form. His story reminds us that life is a journey of exploration, where unexpected turns can lead to extraordinary destinations. As the final curtain falls on his remarkable life, Champad’s legacy continues to inspire, reminding us to embrace the magic that lies within and the stories waiting to be told.