Kochi: Keralite fans of Brazilian author Paulo Coelho were taken by surprise when he wrote in Malayalam on his official Facebook account to announce the launch of his latest book. He announced that the book, The Spy, would be released in Malayalam even before the launch of its official English edition. More than 8,000 people either shared or liked his post in Malayalam. The author was in the news recently for tweeting the film poster of Kunchacko Boban starrer Kochavva Paulo Ayyappa Coelho.
An elated fan posted, “22 official languages in India & Malayalam is the only language in the publishing list. Really honored.” The release date of the English version is on November 28. One of his popular novels, The Alchemist, is still a best seller in Kerala. Atheena Elizabeth Stephen posted, “Happy to see this Paulo. I was waiting for the Malayalam version. More than that a Malayalam post in your page, It's really surprising. Thank you for your magical words, you are the reason behind my happiness.”
According to the author, The Spy brings to life the true story of Mata Hari, the famous courtesan and accused spy who was executed for treason 100 years ago. Keralites are known for 'trolling' celebrities online in their mother tongue. The Malayali troll brigade over the years have unleashed their online attack on celebrities like Maria Sharapova and Pakistan Army General Asim Bajwa.
