Which Indian City is known as the City of Literature?

Books, stories, poems, and plays have always shaped human thought and culture. Some cities become special because they encourage reading, writing, and creative ideas. These places give the world great authors, beautiful libraries, and strong storytelling traditions. Such a city is known for its deep connection with literature, where words are celebrated and writers are remembered through history and daily life.

Which City is known as the City of Literature?

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. 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.

Why Kozhikode is known as the City of Literature?

Kozhikode has supported literature for more than a hundred years. People here actively read newspapers, books, and magazines. Writers from the city have written stories, novels, essays, and poems that reflect real life, society, and culture. Libraries, bookshops, and literary groups keep literature alive and close to the people.

UNESCO City of Literature Recognition

In 2023, UNESCO officially gave Kozhikode the title of City of Literature. The decision was based on clear points such as the 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.

Literary Past of Kozhikode

Kozhikode has been an important centre of learning since the time of the Zamorins. Later, during the colonial and post-independence periods, the city grew as a hub of printing and publishing. Many early Malayalam newspapers and magazines started or spread from Kozhikode, helping ideas reach common people.

Famous Writers from Kozhikode

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 talk about human emotions, social issues, politics, and cultural values. Several of their works are taught in schools and colleges.

Role in the Growth of Malayalam Literature

Kozhikode played a major role in making Malayalam literature popular among the masses. Newspapers and low-cost books helped spread reading beyond educated elites. The city supported new forms of writing like modern novels, short stories, travel writing, and literary criticism.

Reading and Publishing Culture

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.

Interesting Facts About Kozhikode and Literature

• Kozhikode is the first city in India to be included in UNESCO’s global literary cities network.
• The city has a very strong habit of reading across all age groups.
• It played an important role in the development of Malayalam journalism.
• Many literary works from Kozhikode have been translated into English and other languages.
• Writer groups and workshops help young and new authors grow.