Non-Literarized Islamic Life World in Tamil Literature

‘இலக்கியமாக்கப்படாத இஸ்லாமிய வாழ்வுலகம்

Abstract

For over a century, Islamic fiction written in Tamil has primarily served as a medium for promoting religious doctrines rather than as works of literary art. Traditionally, Tamil Islamic fiction was considered subordinate to religious purpose rather than creative literary value. Muhammad Miran is recognized as the pioneer who first challenged this conventional approach, loosening the constraints of strictly religious storytelling. Following him, authors such as Miran Maideen, Salma, Mujibur Rahman, Ashiya, and Keeranur Jagirraja expanded this space, confronting Islamic fiction with new perspectives and creative freedom. Within this context, Keeranur Jagirraja entered the literary scene with the confidence that even sensitive and previously untouchable topics within the Islamic community could be addressed. In a short period, he authored six novels: Meenkaarath Theru, Karutha Leppai, Thurukku Thoppi, Vadakkaemuri Alima, Meenkugai Vaasigal, and Kuttichuvar Kalaiyan, which explored previously uncharted areas of Islamic life and society.