Massive Turnout
The 4th edition of the International Book Festival, organized by the Kerala Legislative Assembly, drew over 2 lakh attendees. The event, held from January
7th to Tuesday, proved to be a resounding success. Speaker A.N. Shamseer emphasized the festival's unique experience, crediting the public's enthusiastic participation, media cooperation, and the legislative staff's organizational efforts. The large numbers signified the importance of such events in the cultural landscape.
Diverse Events
The festival featured a rich array of 407 events spanning diverse segments. These included KLIBF Talks, KLIBF Dialogues, Meet the Author sessions, Students' Corner, panel discussions, and book launches, catering to a wide range of interests. A total of 173 guests, including both national and international literary figures, graced the literary events. This comprehensive program ensured that there was something for everyone, making the festival an engaging and enriching experience for all participants.
Publishers and Stalls
The event hosted 170 publishers, who set up 282 book stalls, providing a vast selection of literature for attendees to explore. The presence of numerous publishers and the wide array of books available underscored the festival's role as a vital platform for the publishing industry. This setup facilitated interaction between authors and readers, enhancing the overall experience for both groups and promoting a love of reading.
Digital Engagement
Promotional activities for the book festival were exclusively conducted using online platforms and digital technologies. This approach ensured a broad reach, effectively engaging potential attendees and raising awareness. The use of digital tools reflects a modern approach to promoting literary events, ensuring accessibility and participation from various demographics.
Theyyam Performances
A specially prepared Theyya-thara at the legislative complex hosted seven Theyyam performances over five days, becoming a major attraction. Thousands, including foreigners, attended each day to witness and learn about this ritual art form from North Kerala. This inclusion of cultural performances enhanced the festival, offering an immersive experience that extended beyond literature, promoting regional art and culture.
Special Tributes
A special venue titled ‘Sreeni Kathaparayumpol' was dedicated to the memory of Sreenivasan, an unparalleled talent in Malayalam cinema. This heartfelt tribute highlighted the importance of honoring those who have made significant contributions to the arts. By remembering Sreenivasan, the festival paid homage to his legacy, providing an added layer of depth and significance.
Student Participation
The event included a specially arranged Students' Corner which attracted thousands of students. It provided them with opportunities to showcase their talents. Numerous students with disabilities also participated, highlighting the festival's commitment to inclusivity. Programmes such as City Ride were utilized by many schools in and around the city, promoting student engagement and participation.
Culinary Delights
The festival featured 16 food courts offering traditional culinary tastes. This integration of food added a further dimension to the overall experience. The food courts enhanced the festive atmosphere and provided attendees with a chance to sample local delicacies, complementing the literary and cultural events with a sensory experience.
Media Engagement
The mega show, organized over seven days by 10 media organizations, attracted a large number of art enthusiasts. The involvement of various media outlets ensured wide coverage and significantly boosted the event's visibility. This media support played a crucial role in amplifying the festival's impact, ensuring a wider reach and increased public engagement.
Prominent Figures
The speaker mentioned that many prominent figures from social, cultural, and literary fields were part of the book festival. Their presence added to the prestige of the event, providing valuable insights and perspectives. Their participation enriched the discussions and interactions, elevating the festival into a significant platform for sharing knowledge and promoting cultural exchange.
