Kerala Literature Festival 2024: A Cultural Extravaganza on the Shores of Kozhikode

Experience the literary marvel at Kerala Literature Festival 2024, a cultural extravaganza on Kozhikode Beach, blending literature, art, music, and diversity.

on Jan 15, 2024

Kerala Literature Festival 2024: A Cultural Extravaganza on the Shores of Kozhikode | Frontlist

Every January, Kozhikode Beach in Kerala, India, transforms into a vibrant hub for the annual Kerala Literature Festival (KLF). Colorful tents adorn the golden sands as people immerse themselves in passionate literary discussions, spanning topics from literature and cinema to food, music, and politics. The festival, conceptualized by the DC Kizhakemuri Foundation in 2015, has become a cultural phenomenon, attracting nearly half a million attendees in its seventh edition from January 11 to 14, 2024.

KLF stands out as a unique platform, inviting people from all walks of life to engage with eminent speakers, fostering an inclusive environment. With over 500 speakers, including local talents and international personalities, participating in over 300 sessions across seven venues, KLF has solidified its place as a literary powerhouse. The festival holds special significance this year as Kozhikode was declared India's first 'UNESCO City of Literature.'

Ravi Deecee, founder of KLF, emphasizes the festival's role in promoting discussions and showcasing the cultural richness of the city. Recognizing the importance of cultivating a reading habit in children, KLF introduces a children's festival with interactive storytelling sessions, theatre-based activities, and workshops curated by actor and storyteller Manu Jose.

Beyond literature, KLF offers a holistic experience with live music performances, poetry readings, art exhibitions, local crafts, and diverse food stalls. Faisal Saleem, a dedicated attendee, attributes the festival's popularity to its unique atmosphere, describing it as a sensory feast that celebrates literature alongside music, art, and culinary delights.

CS Meenakshi, an organizer, takes pride in KLF's secular nature, transcending hierarchical notions and bringing together diverse individuals, including artists, activists, authors, musicians, dancers, and cultural enthusiasts. The festival serves as a melting pot of discussions encompassing literature, politics, music, cinema, and more.

As dusk falls, Kozhikode Beach undergoes yet another transformation, with illuminated book stalls and tents drawing crowds. The festival's inclusivity is highlighted as attendees enjoy music, dance performances, and the rhythmic sounds of the waves. KLF's 2024 edition features a special performance by Sufi Whirling dervishes, a rare spectacle in India, as part of the celebration of 100 years of the Turkish Republic, with Turkey being the guest country.

For many, like journalist Dheeshma Puzhakkal, KLF's charm lies in the nostalgia it evokes, reflecting the essence of Kozhikode's diversity. As KLF continues to evolve, it remains a cultural beacon that transcends the typical literary festival, embodying the spirit of Kozhikode and its celebration of diversity.