The literary event ‚Hortus Vayana‘ held in Kozhikode brought together writers from three different generations to discuss the evolving landscape of literature. The event served as a prelude to the upcoming ‚Hortus‘ international literary and cultural festival to be held in November. The discussion at the event provided valuable insights into how people’s approach to literature has changed over time.
The seniormost writer and social critic, M N Karassery, reminisced about a time when readers of Malayalam literature were willing to spend as much on a book as they would on a sack of rice. He highlighted the popularity of ‚Indulekha‘, the first complete novel in Malayalam, which sold out within three months of its release. This anecdote shed light on the deep-rooted love for literature among readers in the past.
On the other hand, film actor and writer Joy Mathew, a student of Karassery, shared his experiences of engaging with literature and the arts. Despite his extensive background in writing, acting, and directing, Joy Mathew admitted to being unaware of the youngest participant, Nimna Vijay, until recently. This revelation underscored the vast and diverse literary landscape that exists today.
Nimna Vijay, the youngest writer among the three, highlighted the enduring appeal of literature by sharing anecdotes from her own life. She mentioned how readers still queue up to purchase popular books like Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s ‚One Hundred Years of Solitude‘. Nimna’s own bestselling novel, ‚Ettavum priyappetta ennodu‘, has captured the imagination of new-generation readers, showcasing the continued relevance of literature in contemporary times.
Despite their differing perspectives, the writers expressed optimism about the current literary scene. Karassery lamented the diminishing role of writers in society, while Joy Mathew critiqued the depth and intensity of new-generation authors‘ works. In contrast, Nimna celebrated the fact that popular books are now being discussed at serious literary events, signaling a revival of interest in literature.
The writers also reflected on the significance of Kozhikode, a city that has been designated as a UNESCO Literary City. They shared personal anecdotes about their connections to the city and its rich literary heritage. Karassery recalled attending literary events in Kozhikode that featured renowned authors like S K Pottekkatt and M T Vasudevan Nair. Joy Mathew fondly remembered his association with local luminaries like Madhu Master and Bodhi Books, highlighting the enduring allure of the city.
In conclusion, the ‚Hortus Vayana‘ event served as a platform for writers to engage in meaningful discussions about literature and its impact on society. The upcoming ‚Hortus‘ international literary and cultural festival promises to further enrich the literary landscape of Kozhikode. With similar sessions planned in all districts of the state, the event aims to foster a deeper appreciation for literature and culture among audiences.
