Kozhikode in Kerala becomes India’s first UNESCO City of Literature

Kozhikode is celebrating a historic day today! The city has created history by becoming India's first city to be designated as a UNESCO City of Literature. The announcement, scheduled for 5:30 PM at the Kandamkulam Muhammad Abdu Rahiman Memorial Jubilee Hall in Tali, Kozhikode, marked a significant recognition of the city's rich literary heritage. UNESCO conferred this prestigious title on Kozhikode on October 31, 2023, affirming its status as a cultural hub for literature.

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Over the next four years, Kozhikode will host a series of literary and cultural activities to celebrate and promote its newfound status. Iconic locations such as Mananchira, Tali, and Kuttichira will be transformed into vibrant centers for literary events, fostering a dynamic environment for literary exchange and creativity.

Even before receiving the UNESCO recognition, Kozhikode had been adorned with sculptures commemorating renowned literary figures. At Mananchira's Ansari Park, sculptures paying homage to dramatist KT Muhammad and the beloved goat from Vaikom Muhammad Basheer's famous story "Pathummayude Aadu" proved the city's literary legacy.
Looking ahead, Kozhikode envisions leveraging its UNESCO status to attract global recognition and promote cultural tourism. Plans are underway to expand the literary circuit, connecting significant literary landmarks from Thunjath Ezhuthachan's Tirur to Vaikom Muhammad Basheer's Beypore.

The designation as a UNESCO City of Literature not only honors Kozhikode's past contributions to Malayalam literature but also sets the stage for future growth and international collaboration in the literary arts. It is expected to attract writers, scholars, and literary enthusiasts from around the globe, fostering cultural exchange and enriching the city's cultural tapestry.

About Kozhikode

Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, is a colourful city in Kerala that holds a rich historical and cultural significance. The city is renowned for its role as an ancient trading hub and the place where Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama first landed in India in 1498. Today, Kozhikode blends its illustrious past with modern developments, offering visitors a unique experience of Kerala's coastal charm and cultural diversity.

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The city is famed for its pristine beaches like Kozhikode Beach and Beypore Beach, where one can enjoy picturesque sunsets and traditional wooden boat craftsmanship. Kozhikode is also celebrated for its culinary delights, especially its Malabar cuisine known for its aromatic spices and seafood delicacies.

Today, Kozhikode continues to attract tourists and scholars alike, making it a fascinating destination in Kerala.