Kozhikode: A coastal canvas where words take flight

Kozhikode, a coastal wonderland in Kerala, embraced by the Arabian Sea on the west, stands tall as the ‘Oxford of the East,’ where the heart of literature beats in every corner. From the time when Kozhikode was still known as Calicut, this city, with its rich cultural mosaic, has been a fertile ground for scholars, dreamers, and wordsmiths. With over 500 libraries in the district, including 62 public libraries affiliated with the Kerala State Library Council and 269 institutional libraries, the culture here brims the stories of old, holding the wisdom of centuries. In Kozhikode, literature is not merely written, it is lived.

UNESCO's recognition: Kozhikode crowned as ‘City of Literature’

Kozhikode's literary triumph reached a monumental milestone when UNESCO bestowed upon it the esteemed title of ‘City of Literature’, joining the illustrious ranks of cities like Edinburgh, Prague, Melbourne, and Barcelona. This prestigious accolade celebrates Kozhikode’s unwavering dedication to the literary arts and its vital role as a beacon of literary culture. The city's selection underscores its rich historical contributions to literature, along with its vibrant contemporary scene, exemplified by the Kerala Literature Festival (KLF). Also, a 40-day Beypore Art and Craft Literature Tourism Fest is organized in tribute to Kozhikode’s own son, Muhammad Basheer.

Among our most celebrated writers, Vaikom Muhammad Basheer (21 January 1908 - 5 July 1994), affectionately known as the ‘Beypore Sultan,’ stands out as a literary virtuoso and a seminal figure in Indian literature. His contributions have been instrumental in placing Kozhikode on the cultural map, as his works, characterized by simplicity, wit, and profound humanism, have left an indelible mark on the literary landscape. Basheer had a unique ability to touch the hearts of readers; during times of social upheaval, his writings served as a powerful voice for progress, addressing the struggles of the marginalized. The pens of poets and writers in Kozhikode have never ceased to move, with Vaikom Basheer lighting their path. Despite being a freedom fighter, he bravely explored issues of gender, class, and social injustice in his writings, a commitment that even led to his confinement. As a result, he spent much of his later life away from his beloved hometown, a loss not just for Basheer, but also for Kozhikode, which was deprived of one of its most illustrious sons. Yet, with the fleeting passage of time, Basheer’s spirit has finally emerged from the depths of eternity, gracefully returning to Kozhikode, embodied in the radiant glow of the UNESCO award - a heartfelt revival that breathes life into his legacy, eternally echoing through the paths he once roamed. Basheer’s words are timeless, and so too is his spirit.

Establishing India as a Literary Powerhouse: A Dream on the Horizon

With Kozhikode paving the way, the stage is set for India to rise as a hub of literary excellence. To fully realize this dream, we must make concerted efforts to showcase the country’s rich cultural diversity and unique narrative traditions on the world stage. By translating key works into multiple languages, fostering collaborations between Indian and international writers, promoting Indian literature at global literary festivals and cultural exchange programs, integrating it into foreign academic curricula, and leveraging digital platforms to expand its reach to readers worldwide, we can truly proliferate Indian Literature beyond borders.

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SK Pottekkatt Statue | Mathrubhumi photo

When we immerse ourselves in the works of our legendary writers, we encounter the history that has shaped India’s past, filled with fire and dreams. But what of the stories that will shape its future? In a land where narratives stretch across millennia, from majestic epics to modern masterpieces, India stands poised on the cusp of literary greatness. Its diverse tongues and timeless tales are ripe, waiting not only to be celebrated as part of history but also to serve as a force that shapes the future of literature.

This is a clarion call awakening the ‘Basheers of today’, writers who will carry forward the torch, blazing new trails with their words. These are the voices we need: those who will speak truth to power, reflect the complexities of modern India, and reach out to the world with stories that transcend boundaries. The journey has begun with Kozhikode, but the road stretches far ahead. India’s magic will soon unfold to the world like an endless conversation, for the air here is always thick with the scent of ink and the echo of turning pages.

Ananya Agarwal, PGP student, Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode

Dr. Palvi Pasricha, Faculty member, Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode