In the enchanting coastal city of Kozhikode, Kerala, history has been made as it receives the prestigious title of ‘Unesco City of Literature.’ This remarkable recognition has not only set Kozhikode apart but has also etched its name in the annals of India’s cultural and literary heritage.
On a significant Tuesday, Kozhikode officially entered the Unesco Creative Cities Network, proudly bearing the title of ‘City of Literature.’ This groundbreaking achievement marks Kozhikode as the first Indian city to be bestowed with this esteemed honor. Unesco’s formal announcement echoed through the city, showering it with a well-deserved acknowledgment.
Mayor Beena Philip of Kozhikode Corporation exuberantly shared her delight over this momentous accomplishment. She emphasized that the ‘City of Literature’ designation serves as a testament to the city’s excellence in the realms of literature and media. The mayor attributed this triumph to the collective efforts of countless individuals and the unwavering dedication of the corporation over the past two years.
Furthermore, Mayor Beena Philip revealed that with this prestigious title, the city administration is poised to launch a series of innovative projects aimed at further nurturing and promoting literature. Kozhikode has long been a cultural hub, known for hosting various literary gatherings, including the renowned Kerala Literature Festival.
A Global Network of Creativity
As the world celebrated World Cities Day, Kozhikode joined the ranks of 55 newly selected creative cities, handpicked by Unesco Director-General Audrey Azoulay. These cities have been acknowledged for their resolute commitment to embracing culture and creativity as integral elements of their development strategies. They’ve also showcased innovative practices in human-centered urban planning.
The Unesco Creative Cities Network now boasts a total of 350 cities across more than a hundred countries, representing a diverse spectrum of creative fields, including Crafts and Folk Art, Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Media Arts, and Music. This global network fosters collaboration, mutual learning, and the exchange of innovative ideas among its members.
In India, the city of Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh finds its place within the Creative Cities Network, specifically in the field of music, adding another layer to India’s rich cultural tapestry.
A Vision for the Future
These newly designated cities are now poised to collaborate with their network peers to bolster their resilience in the face of an ever-evolving world. They aim to address pressing issues such as climate change, increasing inequality, and the rapid urbanization that is reshaping our world. By 2050, a projected 68% of the global population will call urban areas home, making these efforts all the more critical.
In a tantalizing glimpse of the future, the newly designated Creative Cities are invited to partake in the 2024 UCCN Annual Conference in Portugal, under the theme of “bringing youth to the table for the next decade.” This theme promises to infuse fresh perspectives and energies into the global creative landscape, ensuring that culture and creativity remain central to our shared human experience.
Kozhikode’s ascent to becoming India’s first ‘City of Literature’ is not just a recognition of its past, but a bright promise for its future. As the city takes its place in the Unesco Creative Cities Network, it stands ready to make new waves in the world of literature and culture, enriching our lives with the magic of words and stories.
In conclusion, Kozhikode’s elevation to the status of India’s inaugural ‘City of Literature’ is a momentous achievement that celebrates not only its rich literary heritage but also its unwavering commitment to fostering creativity and culture. As the city joins the esteemed Unesco Creative Cities Network, it embarks on a journey that holds promise for both its residents and the world at large.
With an inspiring vision for the future, Kozhikode and its fellow Creative Cities are setting the stage for innovative solutions to global challenges, nurturing creativity, and ushering culture to the forefront. As we look ahead to the 2024 UCCN Annual Conference, themed “bringing youth to the table for the next decade,” we anticipate fresh perspectives, boundless energy, and the enduring power of literature and the arts to shape our shared human experience.
Kozhikode’s literary triumph not only acknowledges its past but paves the way for a vibrant, culturally enriched future. It is a testament to the enduring magic of words and stories, and an invitation for the world to come together in celebration of culture, creativity, and the boundless possibilities they offer.