In a pioneering initiative, Kerala Tourism will host India’s first-ever travel literary festival, Yaanam 2025, celebrating the spirit of journeys, stories, and cultural exchanges. The three-day festival will take place from October 17 to 19 at Ranga Kala Kendram, Varkala Cliff, bringing together an eclectic mix of travellers, writers, artists, documentary filmmakers, and adventure enthusiasts.
Unveiling the festival at a press conference, P.A. Mohamed Riyas, Tourism Minister, said, “Yaanam is conceived not just as a travel literary festival, but as a vibrant platform for passionate travel lovers – writers, artists, photographers, documentary makers, and adventurers – to share their journeys through words, visuals, and performances. The event will also spotlight Varkala as a global tourism destination, highlighting its immense possibilities for both domestic and international travellers.”
Yaanam 2025 has been envisioned and conceptualised by author and curator Sabin Iqbal and programmed by noted author Nirmala Govindarajan, recognised for her evocative works rooted in travel experiences.
The inaugural edition promises a stellar lineup of distinguished voices from the world of literature, music, travel, and art. Booker Prize winner Shehan Karunatilaka, Grammy Award-winning musician Prakash Sontakke, noted journalist and author Pallavi Aiyar, Gratiaen Award-winning Sri Lankan writer Andrew Fidel Fernando, and globally renowned poet and travel writer Prof. Nathalie Handal, often hailed as “Contemporary Orpheus,” will be among the highlights. Also gracing the stage will be Tibetan poet Tenzin Tsundue, journalist and author Sudeep Chakravarti, celebrated photographer Asha Thadani, and adventurer Piya Bahadur, who will share stories from her all-woman transnational biking expedition. Adding further richness, the festival will welcome acclaimed travel documentarians Priya Ganapathy and Anurag Mallick, culinary icon Karen Anand, and trend-setting travel vlogger Kritika Goel.
In addition to engaging discussions and vibrant interactions, Yaanam 2025 will offer curated trails showcasing the attractions of Varkala, along with interactive workshops on writing, photography, and wellness. Visitors will also have opportunities to immerse themselves in Kerala’s cultural vibrancy through carefully designed experiences.
The Minister noted that post-Covid, Varkala has witnessed a sharp rise in both domestic and international tourist arrivals. V Joy, MLA, and Sikha Surendran, Director, Kerala Tourism, were also present at the press briefing.
Yaanam 2025 follows closely on the heels of Kerala Tourism’s major initiatives, such as the Destination and MICE Tourism Conclave and the Responsible Tourism Conclave, underscoring the state’s commitment to diversifying and enriching its tourism offerings.