Introduction:
Indulekha is a Malayalam novel written by O. Chandu Menon. It is considered one of the first major novels in Malayalam literature. The novel was published in the year 1889.

Explanation:
Indulekha was published in 1889. Here is the explanation of this answer:

1. O. Chandu Menon:
Indulekha is a novel written by O. Chandu Menon, who was a prominent writer in Malayalam literature. Menon was born in 1847 in Kerala, India. He was a civil servant by profession and wrote Indulekha during his time in service.

2. Malayalam Literature:
Malayalam literature refers to the literary works written in the Malayalam language, which is the official language of the Indian state of Kerala. It has a rich literary tradition dating back to ancient times. Indulekha is considered one of the earliest and significant novels in Malayalam literature.

3. Significance of Indulekha:
Indulekha is known for its realistic portrayal of the social customs and traditions prevalent in the 19th-century Kerala society. The novel addresses various themes like women's education, caste system, and social reform. It also explores the complexities of relationships and the role of women in society.

4. Publication of Indulekha:
Indulekha was first published in 1889. The novel was initially serialized in the Malayalam newspaper "Deepika" before being published as a book. The publication of Indulekha marked a significant milestone in Malayalam literature and paved the way for the development of the novel as a popular literary form in the language.

5. Impact and Legacy:
Indulekha received both critical acclaim and commercial success. It inspired other writers to explore the novel as a genre in Malayalam literature. The novel's realistic portrayal of society and its characters resonated with readers and contributed to the growth of literary consciousness in Kerala.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Indulekha, a novel written by O. Chandu Menon, was published in 1889. It holds immense significance in Malayalam literature as one of the earliest and influential novels in the language. The publication of Indulekha marked a turning point in the development of the novel as a popular literary form in Malayalam.