Discover Literary
Legacy of Kozhikode
ABOUT US
Kozhikode City of Literature presents the literary wealth of Kozhikode to the world.
The City of Literature initiative aims to develop Kozhikode as a city that connects its people with culture through its rich literary heritage - celebrating diversity, nurturing innovation, creativity and a focus towards strengthening the community with literature.
OUR LITERARY HERITAGE
HISTORY AND LEGACY
LIBRARY MOVEMENT
Changes in the socio-political context in the first half of the 20th century, especially during the nationalist movement helped the genesis of public library movement in Malabar. It was a people's movement. This movement flourished with the establishment of several reading rooms in different parts of Malabar which created national consciousness among them.
These reading rooms became the meeting places of people in the evening and they discussed various social, economic and political issues. They were the centers for holding study classes, night classes, political discussions, and many cultural activities. They also made people conscious of irreligious works and superstitions.
ARABI MALAYALAM
From ancient times, the Malabar coast has had trade ties with the Arab world. The Mappilas were a community that evolved out of this interaction between the Arab trading community and the Malayalis. In due course, the Mappilas emerged as a community with a unique culture and language.
Their language was written in the Arabic script and had a vocabulary made up of Arabic and Malayalam words. Arabi Malayalam literature was a lively world with magazines, verses and even novels coming out till the late 20th century.
WRITER'S SHAPING KOZHIKODE
Kozhikode boasts a unique and vibrant literary ecosystem, nurtured by the presence of esteemed writers who have left an indelible mark on the literary world. This city has been a fertile ground for literary creativity, giving birth to influential voices that have shaped and enriched the literary landscape of not just Kerala, but the entire nation.
The legacy of Kozhikode's esteemed writers spans across various genres and languages. From iconic Malayalam writers who have penned timeless works of fiction, poetry, and drama, to those who have excelled in Arabi Malayalam literature, the city has produced literary luminaries whose contributions are celebrated far and wide.
The literary heritage of Kozhikode can be felt through its libraries, which house a treasure trove of literary works.
LIBRARIES OF KOZHIKODE
Libraries in Kozhikode, such as the Sanmarga Darshini Library, the State Public Library & Research Centre, the S.K. Pottekkat Library, the Deshaposhini Public Library, and other institutional and home libraries, contribute significantly to the city's title as a "literature city."
These libraries act as knowledge reservoirs, preserving and promoting literature in various forms, developing a reading culture, and providing the local community access to various books and materials.
Almost everyone within the Kozhikode Municipal Corporation has access to a library or a bookstore within 1.8 km
EVENTS AND FESTIVALS
Kozhikode, known for its rich literary heritage, hosts a variety of events and festivals that contribute to its cultural and literary scene. These events provide a platform for showcasing local talent, celebrating traditional art forms, and promoting literature in the region.
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SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 global goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015. They serve as a blueprint for achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
Kozhikode's Sustainable Goals for City of Literature
Kozhikode aims to promote a culture of reading and learning by emphasizing literature and literary activities.
The city seeks to bring together diverse community of authors fostering collaboration and creating opportunities for all.
Kozhikode aims to reduce inequalities by providing a platform for diverse voices and perspective.
Kozhikode's efforts to become a city of literature contribute to building sustainable cities and communities.
Kozhikode's journey towards becoming a city of literature necessitates collaboration and partnerships.
