Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: UCCN, Indian cities recognized by UCCN
Why in the News?
- “Kozhikode” was awarded the title of ‘City of Literature’ at the 16th annual conference of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) in Braga, Portugal.
- The theme of this year’s UCCN conference is ‘Bringing youth to the table for the next decade’.
About UNESCO Creative Cities Network
| Purpose | To promote cooperation among cities for cultural and creative industry development |
| Initiation | Established by UNESCO in 2004 |
| Seven Categories/Criteria |
|
| Member Cities | Over 250 cities from around the world |
| Objectives | Foster innovation, cultural diversity, and sustainable urban development |
| Activities | Collaborative projects, cultural events, and initiatives |
| Selection Process | Cities apply and are designated by UNESCO based on criteria related to creativity |
| Network Coordination | UNESCO provides coordination and support |
| Impact | Enhances cities’ cultural identity, economy, and international visibility |
| Other Indian Cities in UCCN |
|
Reasons for Kozhikode’s Selection
- Rich Literary Tradition: Kozhikode has a deep and rich literary heritage that spans centuries, contributing significantly to the cultural and intellectual life of the region.
- Prominent Literary Figures: The city has been home to many renowned authors, poets, and scholars who have significantly contributed to Malayalam literature.
- Cultural Festivals and Events: Kozhikode hosts various literary festivals, book fairs, and cultural events that promote literature and reading among the community.
- Educational Institutions: The presence of several prestigious educational institutions that emphasise literature and the arts played a crucial role in its selection.
- Community Engagement: Active involvement of local communities in promoting and preserving literary culture through libraries, reading clubs, and literary societies.
- Literary Infrastructure: Well-established libraries, publishing houses, and bookshops that support and nurture the scholarly ecosystem.
Historic Contributions of Kozhikode
- Malayalam Literature: Kozhikode has been a centre for Malayalam literature and scholarly activities. It has produced notable literary figures and is a hub for literary festivals and cultural events.
- Astronomy and Mathematics: The region, under the patronage of the Zamorins, was a centre for advancements in astronomy and mathematics, contributing significantly to the fields through scholars like the 14th-century mathematician and astronomer Madhava of Sangamagrama.
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