MBIFL 2025 begins! 'Currents of Change' take over Kanakakkunnu Palace | PHOTOS

Thiruvananthapuram: The Mathrubhumi International Festival of Letters (MBIFL 2025) opened in grand style at the Kanakakkunnu Palace in Kerala's capital city of Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday evening.

Tourism Minister PA Muhammad Riyas raised the festival flag at the venue, marking the beginning of a vibrant four-day extravaganza dedicated to literature, culture, and intellectual discourse.

Addressing the gathering, Minister Muhammad Riyas praised Mathrubhumi’s efforts in fostering literary dialogue and cultural exchange.

"This festival goes beyond just being a literary event; it has also become a tourist attraction. It is a platform where open discussions and diverse perspectives come together from across the country and beyond," he said.

The minister also highlighted the festival's role in attracting global visitors, saying, "I welcome all our international guests to explore the beautiful tourist attractions nearby."

The opening ceremony was attended by Mathrubhumi’s Managing Editor PV Chandran, Managing Director Shreyas Kumar, former Kerala Chief Secretary and poet Jayakumar, and a distinguished panel of guests, including literary and academic figures. The presence of a diverse and engaging audience reflected the growing enthusiasm for literary and intellectual conversations in Kerala.

'Currents of change' -- A theme of thought

This year's festival theme, 'Currents of Change', resonates deeply with the evolving landscapes of literature, politics, and society. With over 520 speakers from 18 countries -- 50 of them visiting India for the first time -- MBIFL 2025 promises a rich and fearless exchange of ideas through 295 sessions spread across 12 venues.

Welcoming national and international guests, IAS Jayakumar underscored Kerala’s unique culture of dialogue and debate. "This festival is a reflection of our society’s secular and democratic spirit, where agreements and disagreements find a space for meaningful discussion," he noted.

The evening was further enriched by a mesmerising jugalbandi performance, held in memory of legendary tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain. The soulful fusion of Hindustani and Carnatic music filled the night air, setting the tone for an event that embraces artistic brilliance.

After the Jugalbandi followed the ritual art form of Theyyam.  Theyyam is not just a folk artform, but also North Malabar's cultural symbol. The Theyyam's mystic energy reverberated through the audience in attendance.

The inauguration

The festival's official inauguration will take place on Thursday, February 6, at 10 am, with Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar presiding over the ceremony. Over the next four days, the event will bring together some of the most influential voices in literature, culture, and academia through panel discussions, debates, book launches, and artistic performances. Wish to be a part of MBIFL 2025, book your tickets now! https://www.mbifl.com/