In the verdant hills of Kerala's Kasaragod district, a remarkable story of resilience and transformation unfolds—a tale that epitomises the adage, "It is never too late to learn." At the heart of this narrative is Kolathur Kallali Komaveetil Sathi Devi, a woman who, despite leaving school after the third grade, embarked on a profound literary journey at the age of 50, reshaping her life in unimaginable ways.

Living modestly by raising goats, Sathi Devi's path to literacy was serendipitously ignited by her son, Radukrishnan. As a student at Kolathur Government High School, he brought home a goat—a seemingly simple act that opened the doors to a world of books and words for his mother.

While grazing her goats on the nearby hills, Sathi Devi began reading during her breaks. Starting with the basic task of recognising letters at 50, she immersed herself in thousands of books over the next 13 years, eventually venturing into writing her own narratives.

Now, at 63, Sathi Devi has penned over 50 pages of her own book, a testament to her dedication and passion for literature.

Her inspiring journey caught the attention of renowned writer UK Kumaran, who immortalised her as the main character in his short story Aadukale Valarthunna Vayanakkari, published in Mathrubhumi Weekly.

However, the physical demands of goat herding took a toll on her health. Persistent body aches and severe back pain made it challenging to climb the hills, leading her to sell her beloved goats last June to fund immediate medical treatment.

Yet, her loyal pet dogs, Kaiser and Diana, who once guarded her goats, remain steadfast companions, accompanying her as she continues her reading endeavours.

Sathi Devi's literary voyage was nurtured by the T. Kunjambu Nair Memorial Library in Kallali.

Her journey began with Vaikom Muhammed Basheer’s Pathummayude Aadu, and since then, she has delved into countless works, many gifted by friends and authors.

This passion led her to share stages with numerous writers she admires, expanding her world beyond the confines of wage labour and beedi making.

Her story has become a beacon of inspiration, especially for her friends Ilayamma Padi K Bhavani of Thattanmoola and Nalini of Kaniyankund, who consider her a guiding light.

Recently, she visited her 76-year-old friend Bhavani, bringing along a book to read and discuss, exemplifying the profound connections forged through literature.

Despite her health challenges, Sathi Devi dreams of returning to her cherished routine—reading while her goats graze.

However, financial constraints hinder her from purchasing new goats. With assistance, she hopes to once again climb the hills, accompanied by her books and loyal dogs, resuming the life that brought her immense joy and fulfilment.

Her family stands by her side: her husband, T. Ramakrishnan, a wage labourer, and her son, Radukrishnan, who now works at a petrol pump. Together, they witness the transformative power of literacy and the unyielding spirit of a woman who dared to rewrite her destiny.

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