The Kerala Literature Festival (KLF), hailed as Asia’s largest literary gathering, is gearing up for its 8th edition with a stellar lineup of luminaries from literature, music, film, and art. Scheduled to take place in Kozhikode, a UNESCO-designated City of Literature, the event will run from January 23 to 26, drawing a diverse global audience for an extraordinary celebration of creativity.
This year’s festival boasts an impressive roster of renowned figures. Flute virtuoso Hariprasad Chaurasia, acclaimed filmmaker Mani Ratnam, and legendary violinist L. Subramaniam, fondly called the “God of Indian Violin,” are among the standout names. Bollywood stalwarts Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah, versatile actor Prakash Raj, and YouTube sensation Prajakta Kohli will also be present, ensuring a dynamic blend of culture, artistry, and intellectual exchange. “Their presence creates a one-of-a-kind cultural experience, making KLF a must-attend for enthusiasts of art and literature,” stated the organizers.
Adding to the festival’s grandeur, KLF will feature a remarkable array of talents, including Nobel laureates, Booker Prize winners, and award-winning authors and artists. Some of the notable personalities include Malayalam cinema icon Parvathy Thiruvoth, vocalist Mir Mukhtyar Ali, musician Vidya Shah, dancer Methil Devika, French poet Fred Nevché, Bharatnatyam artist Rajashree Warrier, singer Harish Sivaramakrishnan, pianist Stephen Devassy, and Spanish performer Mónica de la Fuente. These distinguished figures will engage in stimulating discussions and artistic performances, enriching the festival’s appeal and cultural impact.
Beyond the luminaries, the festival will shine a spotlight on Kerala’s vibrant cultural heritage, showcasing traditional art forms, dance, and performances deeply embedded in the region’s history. These local expressions will complement a series of global cultural acts, creating a harmonious fusion of the local and the international. “This blend of traditional Kerala culture and global artistry will foster a universal dialogue, celebrating the interconnectedness of art and literature,” remarked Ravi Deecee, the festival’s Chief Facilitator.
France takes center stage this year as the Guest Nation, bringing its artistic flair to the KLF. French cultural performances will share the spotlight with Kerala’s traditional art forms, symbolizing a rich cultural exchange. Among the distinguished French participants are Fred Nevché and Alfred Lionel Papagalli, whose contributions promise to enhance the collaborative spirit of the event. Their presence reflects the festival’s commitment to cross-cultural engagement, breaking barriers and uniting creative minds across borders.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the festival, Ravi Deecee said, “We are thrilled to bring together such a distinguished lineup of artists, writers, and intellectuals for this year’s festival. The fusion of global cultures, including French and Kerala traditions, will offer a unique platform for cross-cultural engagement. It is a celebration of the diverse ways in which art and literature bring people together, breaking boundaries and fostering a universal dialogue.”
With an estimated footfall of six lakh attendees, KLF 2025 is poised to be a grand spectacle of artistic expression and intellectual discourse. Attendees from all corners of the globe are expected to convene in Kozhikode, where the four-day event promises an immersive experience. The festival’s diverse programming will seamlessly intertwine literature, music, art, and culture, creating a space where ideas and creativity flourish.
In its 8th edition, the Kerala Literature Festival aims to reaffirm its reputation as a premier cultural event, uniting audiences and artists in a shared celebration of creativity, dialogue, and the power of the written word.