"Rani" is a popular narrative poem in Malayalam written by Thirunalloor Karunakaran (1924–2006).
[1] It was first published in 1955 in the Onam special number of Kerala Kaumudi.
Composed in the Dravida metre in mellifluent language with a dramatic plot and true-to-life characters it was an instant hit with readers.
[2] The theme of the poem is the struggle of two poor working class lovers – Rani and Nanu – living on the shores of the Ashtamudi lake – for realising their dream of a better life.
The popularity of the poem attracted Kadhaprasangam and Vilupattu artistes who presented it successfully on many stages.