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Kerala showcases a secular cultural alternative to the world, says Minister K. Rajan
The curtains rose on the second edition of the International Literary Festival of Kerala (ILFK) on Sunday, with writer Vaishakan hoisting the festival flag on the Kerala Sahitya Akademi premises. Revenue Minister K. Rajan formally inaugurated the festival, declaring it as Kerala's cultural response to divisive narratives across the world. He also named the akademi auditorium as M.T. Auditorium in honour of writer M.T. Vasudevan Nair.
'In times when lies are spread and falsehoods are used to undermine literature and culture, Kerala presents to the world a secular alternative through this festival,' Mr. Rajan said in his address.
This is a moment to recognise how Kerala's rich cultural heritage is being deliberately undermined. There are even dangerous attempts to destroy the State's cultural progress by spreading distorted and deceitful narratives through cinema, the Minister added.
'The most enriching moment of this festival is the dedication of the akademi auditorium to MT, the beloved writer of every generation and every era,' the Minister said.
Festival book
Higher Education Minister R. Bindu, while releasing the festival book and bulletin, spoke about Kerala's unmatched library movement. 'With thousands of public libraries, academic libraries, and reading rooms, Kerala has the highest library density in the country. The rest of India looks at this movement with admiration and curiosity,' she said.
The event was presided over by MLA P. Balachandran, with district panchayat president V.S. Prince as the chief guest. Akademi president K. Satchidanandan outlined the festival's vision, while cultural leaders, artists, and writers from abroad also took part.
Running until August 21, the festival will feature nearly 70 sessions, including debates, lectures, children's literature events, theatre, and cultural performances across three stages.
