Kerala Literature Festival unveils India’s first writer residency in Vagamon

Friday, December 29, 2023

The Kerala Literature Festival introduces The Vagamon Residency as a fresh sanctuary tailored for writers and artists. Tucked away in the serene Vagamon hills, this residency is purpose-built to offer an inspiring and secluded haven for creative minds to refine their craft while immersing themselves in the tranquility of nature.

Kerala, often acclaimed for its tropical beauty, boasts a diverse tapestry of trade, religion, and culture. Acknowledging the pivotal role of literacy in its progress, Kerala achieved a significant milestone by achieving universal primary education through the Athulyam literacy program in January 2016. The state’s vibrant reading culture is evident through the multitude of libraries speckling its landscape.

Vagamon, a hill station far removed from urban clamor, unfurls its splendor with meadows, pine forests, and breathtaking vistas. Dubbed as Paradise, Vagamon radiates cultural and religious harmony nestled among three hills—Thangal, Murugan, and Kurisumala. This scenic locale will play host to a select group of writers and artists from both India and abroad, engaging in a residency spanning 4 to 8 weeks.

“Embracing the essence of literary exploration, The Vagamon Residency stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to nurturing creativity. Within the tranquil embrace of Vagamon’s hills, this residency invites writers and artists from far and wide to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery. We are thrilled to witness the emergence of a space where the written word and artistic expression find solace in nature, crafting narratives that transcend boundaries and enrich our cultural mosaic,” remarked Ravi Deecee, Chief Facilitator of the Kerala Literature Festival.

The Kerala Literature Festival has been pivotal in cultivating a reading culture and fostering emerging writers through diverse programs. The KLF will cover accommodation and associated expenses for chosen writers and artists at The Vagamon Residency, welcoming both established and aspiring talents.

As Asia’s largest literary gathering, the Kerala Literature Festival is gearing up for its 7th edition in January 2024. With an impressive lineup of over 500 global speakers and 250 sessions spread across six venues on Calicut beach, the festival will also feature movie screenings, a Children’s Festival, art installations, school outreach programs, and folk cultural nights—a celebration of thoughts, ideas, and culture.

Scheduled from January 11th to 14th, 2024, on the scenic beaches of Kozhikode, KLF 2024 promises to showcase a diverse array of Authors, Novelists, Diplomats, Politicians, Poets, Advocates, Journalists, Historians, Entrepreneurs, Activists, Academicians, Chefs, Film and Theatre Personalities, and celebrities from various professional backgrounds. This edition will mark the festival’s return since UNESCO designated Kozhikode as the first ‘City of Literature.’

Türkiye will commemorate its 100th year of the republic at KLF 2024, contributing through music, dance, food, and various art forms. The UK, Wales, Spain, Japan, USA, Malaysia, Spain, and France are among the other participating countries, promising a truly global celebration of literature and culture.

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