Kozhikode, also called Calicut, in Kerala is known as the City of Literature. It became India’s first UNESCO City of Literature in 2023. The city has a long history of writing, reading, and publishing. (Image: X)
Many famous Malayalam writers are linked to Kozhikode. Public libraries, newspapers, bookshops, and literary events show the city’s strong love for books and knowledge. (Image: X)
Kozhikode has nurtured a strong literary culture for over a century. Its people are avid readers of newspapers, books, and magazines, while local writers have produced stories, novels, essays, and poems rooted in real life, society, and culture. (Image: X)
Libraries, bookshops, and literary groups continue to keep literature vibrant and accessible to the community. (Image: X)
In 2023, UNESCO officially gave Kozhikode the title of City of Literature. The decision was based on city’s literary history, large number of writers, strong publishing work, easy access to books, translation efforts, and regular literary events. Kozhikode became the first city in India to receive this global honour. (Image: X)
Kozhikode has been a prominent centre of learning since the era of the Zamorins. During the colonial and post-independence periods, it evolved into a major hub for printing and publishing. Many early Malayalam newspapers and magazines originated or flourished here, helping ideas and information reach the wider public. (Image: X)
Many great Malayalam writers are connected with Kozhikode. Some well-known names include Vaikom Muhammad Basheer, S.K. Pottekkatt, M.T. Vasudevan Nair, P. Valsala, and K. Damodaran. Their writings stressed about human emotions, social issues, politics, and cultural values. Several of their works are taught in schools and colleges. (Image: X)
The city has many public libraries, reading rooms, publishers, and bookshops. These places are used by students, teachers, writers, and senior citizens. Kozhikode publishes fiction, non-fiction, academic books, and translated works, making knowledge easily available. (Image: X)
