Kerala Literature Festival (KLF) – A Global Platform for Ideas and Culture

The Kerala Literature Festival (KLF) is one of Asia’s largest and most celebrated literary and cultural exhibitions, held annually at the iconic Kozhikode Beach in Kerala. Organized by the DC Kizhakemuri Foundation with the support of DC Books and the Government of Kerala, KLF has evolved into a globally recognized forum that brings together literature, art, culture, and intellectual discourse under one open and inclusive platform. Conducted usually over four days in January, the festival attracts a diverse audience comprising students, readers, scholars, artists, and the general public, along with eminent speakers from India and across the world. KLF features hundreds of engaging sessions that explore a wide range of subjects including literature, history, politics, science, cinema, philosophy, gender, environment, and contemporary social issues. In addition to panel discussions and keynote talks, the festival hosts book launches, poetry readings, workshops, cultural performances, theatre, music events, and art exhibitions, making it a vibrant blend of intellectual and artistic expression. One of the key strengths of KLF is its accessibility and openness, allowing free interaction between speakers and attendees and encouraging the exchange of diverse ideas and perspectives. The beachside venue adds a unique charm to the festival, creating an informal yet thought-provoking environment that distinguishes it from conventional literary events. Over the years, KLF has hosted internationally renowned authors, Nobel laureates, journalists, policymakers, and cultural icons, while also giving strong emphasis to Malayalam literature and regional voices. More than just a literary exhibition, the Kerala Literature Festival stands as a celebration of knowledge, creativity, and dialogue, reinforcing Kerala’s reputation as a state deeply rooted in literacy, cultural awareness, and progressive thinking.