Books, stories, poems, and plays have a profound impact on human thought and culture. Certain cities become special by fostering reading, writing, and creative ideas, giving rise to remarkable authors, beautiful libraries, and robust storytelling traditions. Such a city deeply connects with literature, celebrating words and honoring writers throughout history and daily life.
Which City is Known as the City of Literature?
Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, in Kerala, is recognized as the City of Literature. In 2023, it became India’s first UNESCO City of Literature. The city boasts a rich history of writing, reading, and publishing, with many renowned Malayalam writers linked to its legacy. Public libraries, newspapers, bookshops, and literary events reflect Kozhikode’s strong passion for books and knowledge.
Why is Kozhikode Known as the City of Literature?
Kozhikode has supported literature for over a hundred years. The local population actively engages with newspapers, books, and magazines. Writers from this city have penned stories, novels, essays, and poems that reflect real life, society, and culture. Libraries, bookstores, and literary groups play a significant role in keeping literature alive and accessible to the public.
UNESCO City of Literature Recognition
In 2023, UNESCO officially designated Kozhikode as a City of Literature. This recognition was based on several factors, including the city’s rich literary history, a large number of writers, robust publishing activities, easy access to books, translation efforts, and regular literary events. Kozhikode proudly became the first Indian city to receive this global honor.
Literary Past of Kozhikode
Kozhikode has been a vital center of learning since the era of the Zamorins. During the colonial and post-independence periods, the city flourished as a hub for printing and publishing. Many early Malayalam newspapers and magazines were established or gained popularity in Kozhikode, facilitating the spread of ideas to the masses.
Famous Writers from Kozhikode
Several great Malayalam writers are associated with Kozhikode, including Vaikom Muhammad Basheer, S.K. Pottekkatt, M.T. Vasudevan Nair, P. Valsala, and K. Damodaran. Their writings explore human emotions, social issues, politics, and cultural values, and many of their works are included in school and college syllabi.
Role in the Growth of Malayalam Literature
Kozhikode has played a pivotal role in popularizing Malayalam literature among the masses. The availability of newspapers and affordable books has expanded reading beyond the educated elite, encouraging new forms of writing such as modern novels, short stories, travel writing, and literary criticism.
Reading and Publishing Culture
The city boasts numerous public libraries, reading rooms, publishers, and bookshops. These facilities cater to students, teachers, writers, and older adults alike. Kozhikode produces a wide range of fiction, non-fiction, academic texts, and translated works, ensuring that knowledge is easily accessible.
Interesting Facts About Kozhikode and Literature
Kozhikode is the first Indian city to join UNESCO’s global literary cities network. The city has fostered a strong reading culture across all age groups and has significantly contributed to the development of Malayalam journalism. Many literary works from Kozhikode have been translated into English and other languages, while writer groups and workshops support the growth of young and emerging authors.
Q1. What makes Kozhikode a UNESCO City of Literature?
Answer: Kozhikode was designated a UNESCO City of Literature in 2023 due to its rich literary history, significant number of writers, and commitment to cultural events and publishing.
Q2. Who are some famous writers from Kozhikode?
Answer: Notable writers from Kozhikode include Vaikom Muhammad Basheer, S.K. Pottekkatt, and M.T. Vasudevan Nair, known for their impactful contributions to Malayalam literature.
Q3. How does Kozhikode promote reading?
Answer: Kozhikode promotes reading through its public libraries, bookshops, and literary events, making literature accessible to a broad audience.
Q4. What is the historical significance of Kozhikode in literature?
Answer: Kozhikode has been a center of learning since the Zamorin era, contributing significantly to the growth of Malayalam journalism and literature.
Q5. How does Kozhikode support new writers?
Answer: The city fosters new talent through writer groups and workshops, providing resources and mentorship to aspiring authors.
Question 1: In which year was Kozhikode designated as a UNESCO City of Literature?
A) 2020
B) 2021
C) 2022
D) 2023
Correct Answer: D
Question 2: Who is a famous Malayalam writer associated with Kozhikode?
A) M.T. Vasudevan Nair
B) Rabindranath Tagore
C) Vikram Seth
D) Arundhati Roy
Correct Answer: A
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