Mathrubhumi stands tall behind Kozhikode, UNESCO’s City of Literature

Kozhikode: Mathrubhumi, synonymous with the rich tapestry of Malayalam literature and Kerala’s historic struggle for independence, reaffirms its unwavering commitment to bolster Kozhikode's newfound distinction as a UNESCO city of literature. M V Shreyams Kumar, Managing Director of Mathrubhumi, expressed firm dedication to leveraging the organisation's robust research infrastructure in support of Kozhikode's literary endeavours. 

In a recent dialogue with Kozhikode Mayor Beena Philip and esteemed writers, he underscored Mathrubhumi's legacy of nurturing literary excellence, tracing back to Kesava Menon’s era and continuing through its celebrated platform, Mathrubhumi Weekly, which has fostered global literary luminaries. 

“Mathrubhumi will offer support when you take up any activities related to the city of literature. Mathrubhumi is an institution that has honoured literature since Kesava Menon’s time. It is a matter of pride that Mathrubhumi Weekly has nurtured world-renowned writers. It became a reason for MT (MT Vasudevan Nair) to come to Kozhikode. He was associated with us as a sub-editor. Mathrubhumi has always encouraged creativity,” Shreyams Kumar said, while adding that more than 80 percent of the participants in the Mathrubhumi Festival of Literature (MBIFL) are youngsters.

Tha Mayor said that the culture of the city can be reclaimed through the stature of the city of literature. Urban decay causes cultural decay and this can be overcome through the city of literature, she said. The work for the ‘Sahitya Nagar’ (City of Literature) is envisioned in four stages spanning over eight years. A literary museum will also be set up in Kozhikode. The city will become a meeting place for writers of various languages, she added. 

Corporation secretary K U Bini also spoke about various possibilities.

P V Chandran, Chairman and Managing Editor of Mathrubhumi, and Joint Managing Editor P V Nidhish echoed their optimism and pledged ongoing collaboration. Eleven prominent literary figures took part in this discourse. Director Radha Bhaskara Menon was also present on the occasion.