Thiruvananthapuram: For six years, Malayalis have celebrated the Mathrubhumi International Festival of Letters, South India’s premier literary and cultural event that brings writers, thinkers and artists from across the globe together. The festival, often described as a “spring of words,” offers four days of literary, artistic and intellectual engagement at Kanakakkunnu, Thiruvananthapuram, inspiring audiences with diverse ideas and human creativity.

The seventh edition of the festival will be inaugurated by actor Mohanlal, a beloved icon of Indian cinema across generations. He will light the ceremonial lamp at Nishagandhi Auditorium on January 29 at 10 a.m. 

Commenting on the honour, Mohanlal said it is a great privilege for him. “I hold this opportunity close to my heart and eagerly await the event.”

M A Yusuff Ali, chairman and managing director of LuLu Group and brand ambassador of Malayalis abroad, will be the chief guest at the inauguration. The festival director and curator, former Chief Secretary Dr V Venu, will deliver the opening address.

Keynote speeches will be delivered by celebrated Malayalam writer K R Meera, renowned for works such as 'Aarachaar ', 'Qabar', 'Nethronmeelanam', 'Ave Mariya' and 'Kalachi', and Swiss-German novelist Jonas Lüscher, acclaimed for 'Kraft: A Novel' and 'Barbarian Spring'.

The festival extends beyond literature, encompassing a broad spectrum of knowledge and creativity. Eminent personalities from fields such as science, anthropology, diplomacy, politics, art, culinary arts, environment, sports, travel, cinema, music, archaeology, history, business, media, social issues, spirituality, religion, philosophy, language and artificial intelligence will lead lectures, debates and panel discussions. Evenings will feature cultural performances, artistic events and interactive sessions. The festival runs until February 1, with entry available via registration.

Book your tickets for MBIFL 2026 | https://store.mathrubhumi.com/mbifl/index.html