Kerala’s Kozhikode Becomes India's First UNESCO City of Literature

UNESCO announces Kozhikode in Kerala, India as a UNESCO City of Literature.  

In a landmark achievement, Kozhikode, a coastal city in the southern state of Kerala, has been designated as India's first UNESCO City of Literature. This prestigious recognition, part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), celebrates cities worldwide for their commitment to creativity as a strategic factor for sustainable urban development.

Kozhikode, historically known as Calicut, has long been a significant cultural and literary hub in India. The city's rich literary heritage, vibrant cultural scene, and commitment to promoting literature and arts played a crucial role in securing this honor. This recognition places Kozhikode among 55 other cities globally that have been acknowledged for their literary excellence.

To celebrate and promote its newfound status, Kozhikode will be hosting a series of cultural and literary activities over the next four years. Iconic locations such as Mananchira, Tali, and Kuttichira will witness a transformation. These locations will now serve as dynamic centers for literary-based events fostering a vigorous environment for exchange of literature and creativity. 

Kozhikode's inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network is expected to attract global recognition and boost cultural tourism in the city. This honor is likely to draw writers, poets, and literary enthusiasts from around the world, significantly contributing to the city's literary landscape. 

The city renowned for its role as an ancient trading hub and the place where Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama first landed in India in 1498, will now be acknowledged for its literary contributions in the past as well as the present. 

Famed for its Malabar cuisine, picturesque beaches, and wooden boat craftsmanship, Kozhikode is sure to attract tourists and scholars alike to its captivating pavilions offering visitors a fascinating mix of coastal charm and literary heritage.