KLIBF 2026: Festival Office Inauguration Tomorrow, Theyyam Performances Begin January 8

Thiruvananthapuram: The capital city of Kerala is set to come alive with the spirit of literature and culture as the fourth edition of the Kerala Legislative Assembly International Book Festival (KLIBF 2026) prepares to open.

The festival, which promises to be a confluence of knowledge, art, and tradition, will transform the Assembly complex into a vibrant hub for readers, writers, and cultural enthusiasts from across the world. From January 7 to 13, visitors will not only explore an extensive collection of books but also witness cultural performances that bring alive the state’s rich heritage.

The celebrations formally begin tomorrow, January 6, with the inauguration of the festival office at 10.30 am, presided over by the Minister for General Education, V Sivankutty. The ceremony will also see the unveiling of the festival directory and the official festival song, marking the official commencement of this literary extravaganza. Later in the evening, at 6.30 pm, Speaker A N Shamseer will illuminate the colourful decorations adorning the Assembly complex, creating an atmosphere of festivity and anticipation for the days ahead.

KLIBF 2026 promises more than just books. Ministers, social leaders, and prominent figures from literary, social, and cultural spheres will take part in discussions and programmes designed to engage and inspire attendees. National and international publishers, alongside eminent writers, will showcase a wide variety of works, ensuring that every visitor finds something to captivate their imagination. The festival also offers a rare opportunity to explore the Legislative Assembly Museum and the Assembly Hall, blending the joy of reading with an understanding of Kerala’s legislative heritage.

Adding a unique dimension to this year’s festival is the celebration of Theyyam, the traditional ritualistic art form of North Malabar. Performances will be held from January 8 to 12, opening with the ‘Kodiyeattam’ ceremony by the Theyyam Heritage Committee from Maahi, inaugurated by the Minister for Culture, Saji Cheriyan, in the presence of the Speaker. The festival will then showcase a series of Theyyam performances, including ‘Guruthi Tharpanam and Pookuttichathan Thira’, Muthappan Vellattam, Ayodhana Mikava’s Padaveeran Theyyam, Kuttichathan Thira, Agnikantha Karnan Theyyam, Vasoorimala Bhagavati Thira, and Pottan Theyyam. Each performance reflects Kerala’s history, spiritual ethos, and social consciousness, bringing alive narratives of valor, devotion, and resistance against discrimination.

With its seamless blend of literature, culture, and tradition, the Kerala Legislative Assembly International Book Festival 2026 promises to be a celebration of knowledge and creativity, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the rich literary and artistic heritage of Kerala.