On June 23rd, Kozhikode was formally declared the first ‘City of Literature’ in India by UNESCO. The announcement was made by Kerala’s Minister for Local Self-Government, M.B. Rajesh.
Importance of the Title
Minister M.B. Rajesh highlighted that Kozhikode, akin to London, serves as a hub of talent, marked by its unpretentious nature and hospitable spirit of freedom. The city’s cultural diversity has fostered numerous literary talents, including two Jnanpith awardees.
Achievements and Recognition
The Minister acknowledged the contribution of writers, cinema, music, and media from Kozhikode, which played pivotal roles in earning the prestigious UNESCO designation.
Comparison and Acknowledgment
Addressing comparisons with Kolkata, Minister Rajesh praised the efforts of the Mayor and the Kerala Institute of Local Administration in effectively presenting Kozhikode’s literary achievements.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- Who formally announced Kozhikode as India’s first ‘City of Literature’?
- A) Mayor M. Beena Philip
- B) Minister for Local Self-Government M.B. Rajesh
- C) Minister for Tourism P.A. Mohamed Riyas
- D) Writer M.T. Vasudevan Nair
- Answer: B) Minister for Local Self-Government M.B. Rajesh
- According to Minister M.B. Rajesh, what quality does Kozhikode share with London?
- A) A rich tradition of cinema
- B) Unpretentiousness and a spirit of freedom
- C) Lush green landscapes
- D) Expensive real estate
- Answer: B) Unpretentiousness and a spirit of freedom
- What annual event did Mayor M. Beena Philip announce to celebrate the ‘City of Literature’ status?
- A) Kozhikode Literature Festival
- B) International Book Fair
- C) City of Literature Day on June 23
- D) Literary Award Ceremony
- Answer: C) City of Literature Day on June 23
- Who received the diamond jubilee award from the Kozhikode Corporation?
- A) Mayor M. Beena Philip
- B) Poet P.K. Gopi
- C) MLA Thottathil Raveendran
- D) Writer M.T. Vasudevan Nair
- Answer: D) Writer M.T. Vasudevan Nair
- Which cultural figure announced the designation of Anakkulam Cultural Centre as the ‘City of Literature’ centre?
- A) Lyricist Kaithapram Damodaran Namboothiri
- B) Musician Vaikom Muhammad Basheer
- C) Film director M.T. Vasudevan Nair
- D) Mayor M. Beena Philip
- Answer: A) Lyricist Kaithapram Damodaran Namboothiri