Seminar on ‘Creative Freedom’ held

“Even the Raj Bhavan, a symbol of politically and culturally enlightened Kerala, has now been reduced to an office of Indian fascism,” said writer and critic K.E.N. Kunhahammed on Sunday (June 8, 2025).

He was inaugurating a seminar on ‘Creative Freedom’, organised by the District Library Council as part of the ongoing book festival.

Mr. Kunhahammed emphasised that creative freedom was not confined to art and literature alone, but represents the fundamental right to live with dignity in one’s own land. “It is the essence of both survival and self-expression. True creativity emerges from the everyday inner struggles to improve our lives,” he said.

Quoting Sree Narayana Guru, Mr. Kunhahammed said that wisdom does not come on its own — it must be actively pursued. “Guru showed us the way, including the importance of reading good books. Critical and creative reading relevant to our times will bring enlightenment — if not today, then tomorrow,” he added.

The seminar was presided over by Kerala Sahitya Akademi Executive Committee member M.K. Manoharan.

A special tribute to M.T. Vasudevan Nair through artist Madanan’s ‘Varayum Varthamanam’ added an emotional dimension to the event. Library Council president Mukundan Mathil welcomed the gathering.

Published - June 08, 2025 08:44 pm IST