Kozhikode in north Kerala, known for its rich cultural heritage, was on Sunday(23 June 2024) officially declared as India's first UNESCO 'City of Literature'.

In October 2023, Kozhikode had earned a place in the 'Literature' category of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN). 

State Local Self Government Department (LSGD) Minister, M B Rajesh, in an official event here announced the achievement of Kozhikode which earned the place in the 'Literature' category of the UCCN.

Rajesh described Kozhikode as a city with a soul, characterised by humanity, harmony, a strong sense of justice and freedom of expression.

The state government also announced that from coming year, June 23 will be celebrated as the 'City of Literature' Day of Kozhikode, a place known for literary greats like late S K Pottakkad and Vaikom Muhammed Basheer.