What's Happening?
The Yaanam 2025 travel literature festival, organized by the Kerala Tourism Department, opened with a session featuring Booker Prize-winning Sri Lankan author Shehan Karunatilaka. In conversation with Malayalam
writer K.R. Meera and journalist Pallavi Aiyar, Karunatilaka discussed how travel writing transcends mere descriptions of destinations to explore the author's personal journey. He emphasized that travel writing can be political, personal, or whimsical, often revealing more about the writer than the places they visit. Karunatilaka shared his experiences of gaining a clearer perspective on Sri Lanka while living abroad. The festival, moderated by curator Sabin Iqbal, aims to explore diverse cultures and consciousness through travel literature.
Why It's Important?
The festival underscores the growing recognition of travel literature as a medium for exploring identity and cultural connections. By highlighting personal narratives and shared human experiences, the event fosters a deeper understanding of global cultures. Authors like Karunatilaka and Meera illustrate how travel can inspire creativity and self-awareness, offering insights into one's own culture and identity. This perspective is particularly relevant in a globalized world where cultural exchange and understanding are increasingly important. The festival's focus on personal stories and cultural reflections contributes to a broader dialogue on identity and belonging.
What's Next?
The three-day Yaanam 2025 festival will continue to host around 50 speakers from India and abroad, providing a platform for discussions on identity, culture, and the art of observation. As the festival progresses, it is expected to further explore the connections between travel, literature, and self-discovery. Participants and attendees may engage in dialogues that challenge perceptions and encourage a deeper appreciation of diverse cultural narratives. The festival's outcomes could influence future travel writing and inspire new literary works that reflect the complexities of global identities.
Beyond the Headlines
The festival highlights the ethical and cultural dimensions of travel, emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting diverse cultures. It also raises awareness of the different experiences of travel, such as the contrast between leisure travel and the experiences of refugees. These discussions may prompt a reevaluation of how travel is perceived and represented in literature, encouraging more nuanced and empathetic portrayals of cultural interactions.
