Table of Contents
Why in news?
- During India’s literacy city festival on June 23, 2024, Kozhikode the coastal city in the southern state of Kerala, would be honourably known as India’s first city of literature under UNESCO.
- This acknowledgement is all about valuing the literary history of Kozhikode and the city’s overall cultural impact, placing it amidst other world city that actively support creativity in literature.
- It is not only a recognition of cultural heritage of the city but a model of how ‘nurturing’ young talents of literature may be done.
The Journey to UNESCO Recognition as a City of Literature
- Some of the sustained endeavours of the Kozhikode Municipality under the leadership of its Mayor, Hon’ble M. Beena Philip and the Kerala Institute of Local Administration have built up the path to the achievement of this title.
- They conducted extensive research on the topic and presented it systematically and strategically to indicate that Kozhikode had immensely contributed to the sphere of literature, cinema, music and media more than many other cities, including Kolkata, I suppose.
Strategic Efforts and Presentation
- Research and Documentation:
- The backbone of the application was a scrupulous gathering of data that talks about Kozhikode’s literary achievements, personalities and contributions.
- The proofs incorporated contributions from Jnanpith awardees from the area, and atmosphere of literary advancement through mould of the city’s cinema, popular melodious, and media.
- Community Involvement:
- Therefore, interacting with local writers, artists and organizations provided a comprehensive view of the current scenario of Kozhikode’s literary biography.
- This approach included actions that engaged communities and solicited their support to the city’s literary endeavors.
- Cultural Initiatives:
- Other activities such as the ‘City of Literature Day’ and other annual celebrations, setting up of Anakkulam Cultural Centre proved that the city of Kozhikode is all prepared to take stand on a literature oriented society.
- Such occurrences and establishments act as a endorsement of talent in literature.
Celebrating Literary Excellence
- In connection with this new achievement, Kozhikode declared several measures and events that are intended to promote literary scholarship and cultural activity.
- City of Literature Day
- Inaugural Celebration:
- Thus, June 23 was considered to be the ‘City of Literature Day’ as it was the day the Kozhikode literary festival annually. Celebrated as literary fests, book fares, dramas and musicals, this day involves authors and poets as well as book lovers from the region.
- Annual Awards:
- It is an honourable socioliterary initiative that has intended to award six prestigious awards for literary, writing and related advancements. Such awards are used to support new writers and significant authorities so a wealthy bookish life is encouraged.
- Inaugural Celebration:
- Anakkulam Cultural Center
- Literary Hub:
- Called Anakkulam Cultural Center later, the venue has become central for the manuscript-related activities in Kozhikode. It conducts workshops, Seminars and literary discussions thus serving as a classroom and literary workshop for writers and lovers of literature.
- Community Engagement:
- It also has outreach programs that aimed to increase reading and writing proficiency of citizens of all ages. Whether in children’s literature workshops, middle and high school literature discussions or storytelling for elderly people, the center nurtures literature lovers.
- Literary Hub:
Kozhikode’s Literary and Cultural Legacy
- Kozhikode, formerly, recognised as Calicut, has unbroken multicultural heritage.
- This role is well manifested in its contributions to literature and arts that form a part of this city’s history as well asevidenced in the rich culture of this city.
- Literary Icons
- Jnanpith Laureates: Kozhikode has produced some of the most renowned writers of India where two Jnanpana awardees have born. These are the prominent authors who have done a great job for Indian literature expanding its field with their creative work.
- M. T. Vasudevan Nair: Some of the famous writers from Kozhikode are M. T. Vasudevan Nair, the Kozhikode Corporation honored him with diamond jubilee award during the announcement event. In the years relevant to Malayalam literature and cinema his novels and screen plays are considered unique.
- Cinematic Contributions
- Mollywood Influence: Carrier reaches to Mollywood of kerala which is thriving film industry, starting from Kozhikode. Many great movies have been filmed in the city and it has also brought forth great directors and actors who have enriched this city’s cinematic culture.
- Film Festivals: Kozhikode houses several film festivals that are held to showcase commercial as well as the parallel cinema. Thus, these festivals provide opportunities to present various stories and enhance an understanding of the cinematic culture.
- Musical Heritage
- Traditional Music: It is in music as well; the city of Kozhikode can boast of Sopanam and Mappilapattu traditional music as its instrument. These musical styles with the poetic words and different tempo truly depict the multicultural aspect of city.
- Contemporary Scene: As of today, the contemporary music in Kozhikode is lively, and the artists are trying out fusion and new age music along with the remastered Malayali music. This dynamic musical background enriches the city’s established focus on literature.
- Literary Icons
Historical Significance of Kozhikode
- In addition to the contributions of literary and culture, Kozhikode has the colours of history as it being oldest city of kerala.
- Gateway to the East
- Vasco da Gama’s Arrival: Kozhikode rose to the heights of fame when it was visited by Vasco de Gama in 1498 opening the age of discovery. This particular event placed Kozhikode as a gateway city in the Eastern spice trade hence it became known as the city of spices.
- Trade and Commerce: Due to its position on the map of the world, became the center of trade and commercial relations among sellers from different countries. The social exchanges that have taken place in the past are still felt in the present day planned city of Kozhikode in terms of its diverse multicultural attributes.
- Architectural and Cultural Landmarks
- Mishkal Mosque: The Mishkal Mosque at Kozhikode was constructed during the 15th century, thus representing one of the historic architectural marvels of the place. Due to the incorporation of both Arabic and other regional architectural designs, it shows the city was a melting pot of cultures.
- Kalaripayattu: Kozhikode is also the place where Kalaripayattu one of the oldest systems of martial arts in India originated from. This art as people’s craft with lots of fascinating details and advanced history enriches the cultural life of the city.
- Modern-Day Kozhikode
- Quality of Life: According to an index published in 2007 the city of Kozhikode came in the 11th place in the list of best cities in which to live in India. It has got historical background, it is cultured, and it is an area of choice to live in or operate a business.
- Educational Hub: Some of the best schools are found in the city which is why many people go to school, for better education, and personal development. The above-mentioned emphasis on education also strengthens Kozhikode’s literary ambitions.
- Gateway to the East
Conclusion
- Kozhikode got the pride to be the first UNESCO “City of Literature” in India to appreciate its potentiality in the literary world and great culture.
- Probably starting from the historical in the importance trade of spices up to modernization in literature, movies, and music, Kozhikode remains as a symbol of civilization.
- City’s provision of literature talent supportiveness such as the “City of Literature Day” and the Anakkulam Cultural Center calls for acknowledgment of the city as a training ground for creativity and cultural activity.
- Thus, when Kozhikode welcomes its new phase, it also cherishes literary past and opens a door to the bright literary future.
FAQs:
Q1: What is the significance of Kozhikode being recognized as a UNESCO ‘City of Literature’?
Answer: Being recognized as a UNESCO ‘City of Literature’ signifies that Kozhikode has made substantial contributions to literature and culture. This title acknowledges the city’s rich literary heritage, vibrant cultural scene, and ongoing efforts to promote and nurture literary talent.
Q2.: What efforts led to Kozhikode achieving the ‘City of Literature’ status?
Answer: The title was achieved through dedicated efforts by the Kozhikode Municipality, led by Mayor M. Beena Philip, and the Kerala Institute of Local Administration. Their thorough research, strategic presentation, and community involvement highlighted Kozhikode’s significant literary contributions, including works from local Jnanpith laureates, the role of local cinema, and cultural initiatives like the “City of Literature Day.”
