Who is the first Malayalam novelist?

It's difficult to definitively say who the *first* Malayalam novelist is, as the concept of the novel emerged gradually in Malayalam literature.

However, the most widely recognized pioneer of the Malayalam novel is considered to be Chandੂ Menon (1840-1899).

His novel Indulekha (1889) is considered a landmark work in Malayalam literature. It's a romantic novel that deals with social issues of the time and was highly influential in establishing the modern Malayalam novel.

While some earlier works might have existed, Indulekha's impact on the genre and its lasting legacy have solidified Chandu Menon's place as a key figure in the development of the Malayalam novel.