YAANAM 2025: How India’s First Travel-Writing Festival is Boosting Kerala Tourism

Kerala launched India’s first travel-writing festival, for those of you wondering what Yaanam means it means travel, journey or a movement, which symbolized why this travel-writing festival was named as such.

This festival is organized by the Kerala Tourism which started from the 17th of October to 19th of October, which had about 50 guest speakers, all of whom shared their experience in literature and travel. The theme of the festival mainly focused on stories based on travel and the journey of those particular individuals.

The festival was not just filled with boring seminar but also cultural events, and mainly focused on being a networking hub for travelers, vloggers, content creators to collaborate, network, and show the beauty of Kerala. Varkala being chosen as the place was an outstanding decision as it is also known as the 2nd Goa of India.

The Event Details & What Actually Happened

Dates: The Yaanam event was held from the 17th October to 19th October.

Venue: Ranga Kala Kendram, Kairali Nagar Junction, Kurakkanni Temple Road, Janardhanapuram, Varkala – Thiruvananthapuram District, Kerala

Inauguration: On 17 October, early evening (the official time mentioned is 5:00 PM)

Key Participants & Voices that Shaped YAANAM 2025

Shehan Karunatilaka – Booker Prize-Winning Author

The celebrated Sri Lankan novelist behind The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida brought literary gravitas to YAANAM. In his session “In Search of Stories and Characters”, he discussed how travel reveals the invisible narratives behind places and people,a reflection of how South Asia’s journeys shape its fiction. His presence positioned YAANAM as a cross-border celebration of Asian storytelling

Pallavi Aiyar – Award-Winning Journalist & Author

Pallavi Aiyar brings over two decades of international reporting experience from China, Indonesia, Japan, and Europe. She writes The Global Jigsaw, a weekly newsletter on travel and culture, and teaches Global Media at IE University in Madrid. At YAANAM 2025, she shared insights on cross-cultural storytelling, showing how travel shapes perspectives and connects distant worlds.

Andrew Fidel Fernando – Award-Winning Writer & Storyteller

Based in Colombo, Andrew Fidel Fernando is the Gratiaen Award-winning author of Upon a Sleepless Isle, Sri Lanka’s only non-fiction book to earn the prize. A senior writer at ESPN Cricinfo, he covers politics, history, and cricket, blending facts with compelling narratives. At YAANAM 2025, he shared stories that connect culture, place, and personal journeys with a touch of humor from his adventures in cooking, freediving, and surfing.

Pramudith D Rupasinghe – The Writer Without Borders

Known as The Writer Without Borders, Pramudith D Rupasinghe blends his experiences as a humanitarian and clinical psychologist into stories that span continents. Having lived and worked across 70 countries, his novels — including the award-winning Bayan that explores immersive, location-based narratives from West Africa to Ukraine, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.

At YAANAM 2025, he shared how global experiences shape storytelling, offering insights into the human side of travel and culture.

Ciara Mandulee Mendis – Award-Winning Writer & Storyteller

Ciara Mandulee Mendis is celebrated for her evocative portrayals of women and cities. Her debut collection The Lanka Box won the State Literary Award 2023 and the Godage National Award, while her travelogue Gallivanting takes readers across six countries, including India, in pursuit of stories and sunsets.

At YAANAM 2025, she shared insights on weaving local culture and personal journeys into compelling narratives, blending literary craft with global exploration.

Tenzin Tsundue – Poet, Activist & Voice for Tibet

Tenzin Tsundue, a Tibetan writer and activist based in Dharamshala, combines poetry, protest, and academia to explore exile, identity, and resistance. With five books and works translated into 17 languages, his writings including the poetry collection Kora has inspired plays, films, and university curricula worldwide.

At YAANAM 2025, Tsundue shared how travel and displacement shape storytelling, blending creative expression with a lifelong commitment to cultural and political causes.

Sudeep Chakravarti – Historian, Author & Storyteller of South Asia

Sudeep Chakravarti is one of India’s foremost chroniclers of history, culture, and politics. His acclaimed books from The Bengalis to Fallen City explores everything from Naxalite regions to Delhi’s socio-political shifts.

At YAANAM 2025, he brought his narrative non-fiction expertise to discussions on how storytelling can illuminate history, conflict, and cultural journeys, showing how travel and place influence the stories we tell.

Piya Bahadur – Founder & CEO, MeraBills

Piya Bahadur is the Founder and CEO of MeraBills, a digital platform empowering micro-entrepreneurs to manage their businesses efficiently. With a background that bridges education, technology, and entrepreneurship, she combines strategic insight with social impact.

Before MeraBills, Piya served as the Regional Director at the U.S.–India Educational Foundation (USIEF), where she set up and led operations across Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha. Her earlier work with the Wadhwani Centre for Entrepreneurship Development at ISB Hyderabad deepened her understanding of India’s grassroots business ecosystem and the challenges faced by small entrepreneurs.

Benyamin – Award-Winning Novelist & Travel Writer

Benyamin, born Benny Daniel, is a celebrated Malayalam novelist and short story writer whose works have been translated into over ten languages. With thirty books spanning novels, short stories, travelogues, and memoirs, he has won prestigious awards like the Sahitya Akademi Award, JCB Prize 2018, and Crossword Book Award.

At YAANAM 2025, Benyamin shared insights from his travels to over 40 countries, exploring how experiences abroad inspire compelling stories rooted in culture and human connection.

Priya Ganapathy – Journalist, Media Professional & Storyteller

With a media career spanning three decades, Priya Ganapathy has excelled across print, radio, TV, theatre, and digital media. She writes for The Indian Express and Times of India, has freelanced for leading publications, and created iconic radio characters for Radio City Bangalore. Priya’s work spans journalism, documentary filmmaking, acting, and voiceover artistry.

At YAANAM 2025, she shared her unique perspective on storytelling, travel, and culture, drawing from her globe-trotting experiences and passion for discovering people and places.

Anurag Mallick – Travel Writer & Multimedia Storyteller

Anurag Mallick is a versatile writer whose work spans travel, advertising, music, radio, and film. He launched The Drifter on OyeIndia.com, highlighting offbeat budget travel in India, and has contributed extensively to Outlook Traveller guides, including Kerala and trekking editions.

A musician and spoken-word artist, Anurag also shapes communication strategy for Wild World India, a National Geographic-recognized travel company. At YAANAM 2025, he shared insights on blending travel, storytelling, and multimedia to bring destinations and experiences to life.

Karen Anand – Food & Travel Expert, Author

Karen Anand, one of India’s pioneering food gurus, has spent over three decades shaping how people experience food and travel. She is the author of bestselling books like Good Food Good Living and co-authored The Penguin Food Lovers Guide to India and Nepal. With multiple TV shows, international awards, and a gourmet consulting business, Karen blends storytelling, culture, and cuisine.

At YAANAM 2025, she shared insights on culinary travel, showing how food connects people, place, and memory.

Kritika Goel – Travel Content Creator & Storyteller

Kritika Goel is a travel content creator who brings destinations to life on YouTube and Instagram. Known for her authentic, relatable style, she showcases both iconic landmarks and hidden gems, inspiring a global audience to explore beyond the usual paths.

Collaborating with leading tourism boards and brands, her journeys span Europe, South America, Australia, and more. At YAANAM 2025, Kritika shared insights on creating immersive travel stories that connect people, place, and culture.

Anand Haridas – Writer, Translator & Media Professional

Anand Haridas is a versatile writer and translator who spent nearly 15 years as a reporter with The Hindu before moving into creative work. He is celebrated for translating major Malayalam works into English, including Kumaru and Shavamtheenikal, and his translation of Kaali Natakam is taught at multiple universities.

Anand has also co-written the film Viral Sebi and regularly publishes poetry. At YAANAM 2025, he shared insights on literary translation, storytelling, and bridging cultures through language.

Madhu Raghavendra – Poet, Performance Artist & Curator

Madhu Raghavendra is a poet and performance artist with five published poetry collections, including Make Me Some Love to Eat and Seeking the Infinite. A former poet-in-residence at the University of Iowa and University of Stirling, he collaborates internationally to blend poetry with music and cross-disciplinary art.

At YAANAM 2025, Madhu shared how poetry can bridge cultures, inspire creativity, and even drive development conversations, reflecting his work curating the Ajanta Ellora Arts Residency in Maharashtra.

Binoo K. John – Senior Journalist & Literary Festival Founder

Binoo K. John is a senior journalist with experience at India Today, Indian Express, and DNA Mumbai. He is the author of works ranging from travelogues like Under a Cloud: Life in Cherrapunji to fiction like The Last Song of Savio de Souza.

As the founder-director of the Kovalam Literary Festival in Thiruvananthapuram, he brings a deep understanding of literature, culture, and storytelling. At YAANAM 2025, Binoo shared insights on chronicling places and people through both journalism and literary narratives.

Sumaa Tekur – Writer, Editor & Spiritual Travel Author

Sumaa Tekur is a Bengaluru-based writer and editor, and the author of three books published by Hay House, including The Inner Light and Table for One. Her latest, The Monks Who Laughed When the Bumblebee Stung Me, recounts solo travels across 18 countries, blending storytelling with spiritual reflection.

With a career spanning The Times of India, Deccan Herald, Femina, and DNA, Sumaa shared at YAANAM 2025 how solo journeys, culture, and introspection shape compelling narratives that connect travel, spirituality, and personal growth.

Afeedha Sherin – Solo Traveller & Cultural Explorer

Afeedha Sherin, a 22-year-old solo traveller from Kerala, has transformed childhood dreams into immersive journeys. From a month-long solo trek in Spiti Valley to living with a local family in Mauritius, she emphasizes cultural exchange, community living, and discovery over conventional tourism.

At YAANAM 2025, Afeedha shared her experiences of independent travel, resilience, and connecting deeply with people and places included the unforgettable moment of swimming alongside 12 whales.

Gaurav Wasan – Food Vlogger & Street Food Explorer

Gaurav Wasan, creator of Swad Official, is one of India’s most recognized food voices, documenting street food from across India and the world. Passionate about food since childhood, he has built a following of over seven million on social media, sharing culinary stories, recipes, and vendor experiences.

At YAANAM 2025, Gaurav highlighted the role of food in travel storytelling, showing how flavours, culture, and community come together to create unforgettable journeys.

Dev Joshi – Travel Blogger & Content Creator

Dev Joshi left his corporate career in 2015 to pursue full-time travel, launching his travel blog in 2016 as a creative outlet and lifestyle platform. In 2020, he expanded into hospitality by running a hotel in Manali, balancing life as a part-time hotelier and travel content creator.

At YAANAM 2025, Dev shared insights on building sustainable travel experiences while documenting journeys that inspire exploration and discovery.

Arihant Baid – Travel Vlogger & Explorer

Arihant Baid, a Chartered Accountant from Hyderabad, turned his passion for travel into a thriving online presence with over 1.1 million Instagram followers and 400,000 YouTube subscribers. He shares stories of culture, history, and hidden gems worldwide, blending his analytical mindset with a love for exploration.

At YAANAM 2025, Arihant inspired audiences to plan meaningful journeys and discover travel beyond the usual paths.

Asha Thadani – Photographic Artist & Social Documentarian

Asha Thadani is a photographic artist whose work highlights marginalized communities and remote indigenous tribes, exploring sociocultural and political themes often overlooked in mainstream media. With nearly three decades of experience, her photography sparks conversations about social disparities and the human condition.

Nominated for the Henri Cartier-Bresson Award 2015, her work has been exhibited internationally, including at Christie’s Paris and the Albert Kahn Museum, and across India. At YAANAM 2025, Asha shared insights on capturing stories through the lens of empathy and social awareness.

Dr. Prakash Sontakke – Grammy-Winning Guitarist & Composer

Dr. Prakash Sontakke is an internationally acclaimed slide guitar virtuoso, composer, and educator, celebrated for bridging classical, fusion, jazz, and Sufi music. He contributed to the Grammy-winning album Winds of Samsara and Divine Tides, serving as co-composer, vocalist, and guitarist.

The only Indian musician to win both the Independent World Music Awards (USA) and the Nashville Award for composers, Dr. Sontakke’s performances and workshops at YAANAM 2025 showcased the fusion of cultural roots with global musical innovation.

Ashim Shatsang Bogra – Expeditionary Cyclist & Adventurer

Ashim Shatsang Bogra, from a remote Tangkhul Naga village in Manipur, is an adventurous explorer, certified yoga instructor, and creator of her handcrafted home collection, ‘SHIM’.

In 2023–24, she became the first Indian woman to cycle 3,000+ km across the Himalayas, from Arunachal Pradesh to Spiti, carrying 30 kg of gear and navigating high mountain passes. At YAANAM 2025, Ashim shared insights from her extraordinary journey, emphasizing resilience, adventure, and connecting deeply with the natural world.

Dhruv Bogra – Expeditionary Cyclist, Author & Motivational Speaker

Dhruv Bogra is an expeditionary cyclist, author, photographer, and ICF-certified transformation coach with over 50,000 km of cycling experience, including extensive Himalayan expeditions. He has authored Grit, Gravel and Gear and Away, chronicling epic solo and group bicycle journeys.

In 2023–24, Dhruv and his wife Ashim cycled 3,000 km across the Indian Himalayas unsupported. At YAANAM 2025, he shared insights on endurance, adventure, and storytelling through travel, inspiring audiences to embrace exploration with grit and curiosity.

Ullekh N. P. – Writer, Journalist & Political Commentator

Ullekh N. P. is a writer, journalist, and political commentator based in New Delhi, serving as executive editor of Open. He is the author of several nonfiction books, including War Room, The Untold Vajpayee, and Kannur: Inside India’s Bloodiest Revenge Politics.

His recent release, Mad About Cuba, blends travelogue with political insight. At YAANAM 2025, Ullekh shared perspectives on travel, politics, and storytelling, highlighting how journeys can deepen understanding of culture and society.

Depinder Chaudhry – Adventurer, Author & Sustainability Advocate

Depinder Chaudhry, known as Depi, turned a lifelong passion for the outdoors into a career in adventure and writing. Author of the Trekking Guide to the Western Himalayas, he also created a 17×17 ft trekking map and explored 3D printing to bring the Himalayas to life. An avid adventurer, he attempted a trans-Himalayan trek and organizes the biennial Kashmir to Kathmandu cycling tour.

Depi also promotes sustainability, establishing a sanctuary on the Ganga and creating art from scrap materials. At YAANAM 2025, he shared insights on adventure, conservation, and experiential storytelling.

Sruthi Bhattathiri – Writer, Researcher & Cultural Enthusiast

Sruthi Bhattathiri is a recent graduate with a passion for literature and cultural studies, holding degrees from Azim Premji University and Manipal University. She experiments with multiple forms of writing, from book reviews to academic research, and explores Malayalam folk and horror narratives, having interviewed cinema professionals like director Fazil.

As a trained Western vocalist, Sruthi performs at venues such as the Alliance Française. At YAANAM 2025, she shared insights on literary research, storytelling, and preserving cultural narratives through writing and performance.

Nirmala Govindarajan – Author, Journalist & Social Storyteller

Nirmala Govindarajan is an author, journalist, and social-sector documentarian, known for pioneering Writer’s Yatra and Rhythm Yoga in offbeat locations. Her novels, including Taboo and Hunger’s Daughters, explore pressing social issues and have been translated into Tamil and Sinhala.

The Community Catalyst is part of the New York Public Library research collection. At YAANAM 2025, Nirmala shared how storytelling can spotlight social challenges and inspire cultural dialogue, while she continues work on her new novel, Bloody Marie.

Sabin Iqbal – Journalist, Novelist & Literary Curator

Sabin Iqbal is a journalist, novelist, and literary curator, serving as Global Director of Asian Literary Festivals and Prizes. He curated six editions of the Mathrubhumi International Festival of Letters and authored novels such as The Cliffhangers, Shamal Days, and Tales from Qabristan.

Former Editorial Director of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, Sabin has contributed to outlets including Business India, Outlook, and Tehelka. At YAANAM 2025, he shared insights on literary curation, storytelling, and connecting global audiences through Indian literature.

Faizal Khan – Culture & Travel Writer

Faizal Khan, based in Delhi and originally from Changanacherry, Kerala, is a culture and travel writer known for his insightful reporting on Kerala and global destinations. A longtime contributor to The Economic Times Travel, he has covered locations from South Africa’s Garden Route to the Arctic Circle and major cities like Rio de Janeiro and Venice.

Faizal has reported on FIFA World Cups and international film festivals, and participated in the 8,000 km IASEAN-India car rally. At YAANAM 2025, he shared perspectives on blending travel, culture, and storytelling for immersive experiences.

C Rahim – Writer, Environmentalist & Media Professional

C Rahim, based in Thiruvananthapuram, is a prolific Malayalam writer, media professional, and environmentalist with a career spanning over three decades. He has authored nearly 25 books, including acclaimed works on ornithology and the environment, such as Dakshina Indiayile Pakshikal (Birds of South India).

Winner of multiple state awards for environmental writing, Rahim has also founded the Snake Bird Foundation and conducted numerous bird surveys, combining literature and conservation advocacy. At YAANAM 2025, he shared insights on environmental storytelling and the role of literature in promoting ecological awareness.

V. Muzafer Ahamed – Travel Writer & Cultural Explorer

V. Muzafer Ahamed is an acclaimed Indian travel writer, celebrated for his explorations of the Arab desert and immersive storytelling that blends adventure, culture, and reflection. Author of over 20 books, his seminal travelogues Marubhoomiyude Athmakatha and Maru Marangal were translated into English as Camels in the Sky: Travels in Arabia and have been used in academic courses like Troy University, USA.

At YAANAM 2025, he shared insights on desert travel, cultural storytelling, and connecting global audiences with Indian literary traditions.

Sanil V – Philosopher, Academic & Author

Sanil V is a Professor of Philosophy at IIT Delhi, with a diverse background that spans engineering, defense research, and advanced philosophical studies. He holds a PhD in Philosophy from IIT Kanpur and has authored works including Kolayude Choreography and Public Sphere from Outside the West.

He has held prestigious fellowships at institutions like University of Hawai’i, University of Liverpool, and Maison des sciences de l’homme, Paris. At YAANAM 2025, Sanil shared insights on philosophy, cognition, and the intersection of art, technology, and critical thought, while also engaging audiences with his Malayalam publications.

Remya S. Anand – Travel Writer & Poet

Remya S. Anand, from Cochin, Kerala, is a travel writer and poet whose evocative travelogues blend adventure and cultural immersion. She has explored over 27 countries and documented her journeys in outlets like Manorama Traveller, Mathrubhumi Yathra, TV, and All India Radio.

Beyond writing, Remya works in the Revenue Department at the High Court and enjoys garden styling. At YAANAM 2025, she shared her experiences of connecting with people, cultures, and landscapes through immersive travel storytelling.

Dileep R – Philosopher, Author & Editor

Dileep R teaches philosophy at Government Brennen College, Kerala, and has a strong background in publishing as a former commissioning editor at DC Books and Penguin India. He has authored four books in Malayalam, including Navacharitravadam and Ranimar Padminimar: Travels of Malayali Women, and edits the Praxis – Insight Publica series, which promotes democratization of knowledge beyond Eurocentric frameworks.

At YAANAM 2025, Dileep shared perspectives on philosophy, social movements, and the intersections of culture, travel, and critical thought.

Dr. Pramod Payyanur – Theatre & Cinema Visionary

Dr. Pramod Payyanur is a leading figure in Malayalam theatre, cinema, and stage productions, with a PhD in Tagore in Global Theatre. Known for his experimental storytelling, he has adapted works by Basheer, O.V. Vijayan, Padmarajan, Chekhov, Camus, and Shakespeare for the stage. His film debut, Balyakaalasakhi, starring Mammootty, earned festival acclaim.

Currently Member Secretary of Bharat Bhavan, Dr. Pramod’s contributions include multimedia productions exploring Kerala’s cultural history, state drama awards, a Guinness World Record, and recognition as a Socio-Cultural Youth Icon. At YAANAM 2025, he shared insights on blending literature, theatre, and cultural heritage in creative storytelling.

Ranjini Krishnan – Researcher, Writer & Entrepreneur

Ranjini Krishnan, based in Kerala, is a researcher, writer, and entrepreneur exploring psychology, culture, and gender. She is the founder of Bodytree.in, a mindful personal care brand, and Sradha Culture Lab, a knowledge initiative on psychology. Ranjini also serves as visiting faculty at KREA University.

Her creative work includes co-writing the feature film Kanyaka Talkies (Best Screenplay, New York Indian Film Festival, 2013) and producing the National Award-winning documentary A Pestering Journey (2010). At YAANAM 2025, she shared insights on storytelling, research, and cultural narratives that intersect with personal care and social awareness.

MANU REMAKANT – Professor & Freelance Writer

Manu Remakant, Professor and Head of the PG Department of English at SN College, Chempazhanthy, is also a prolific freelance writer contributing to national and international magazines. His popular vlog, ‘A Cup of Kavitha,’ has introduced world poetry to Malayalee audiences for the past eight years.

He has authored four books on Kerala’s national forests for the Department of Tourism, including the Sanctuary for the Soul series covering Eravikulam, Periyar, Parambikkulam, and Silent Valley. His first Malayalam book, Branded Batura, published by Mathrubhumi Books, became a bestseller. At YAANAM 2025, Manu shared his expertise on literary storytelling, poetry, and environmental narratives.

BALAN MADHAVAN – Travel & Architectural Photographer

Balan Madhavan is a renowned travel and architectural photographer whose work blends commercial excellence with a passion for nature photography. His award-winning campaigns for Kerala Tourism have played a pivotal role in attracting millions of visitors to the state. Globally recognised for his conservation efforts, Balan is one of only five Senior Fellows from Asia in the International League of Conservation Photographers (ILCP) and has served on its Board of Directors.

A UN award winner, his work also includes contributions to the UNDP’s IHRMLP. With 12 coffee-table books to his credit, he is a dedicated educator, conducting photography workshops and tours for amateurs and professionals alike. At YAANAM 2025, he shared insights on capturing Kerala’s culture, architecture, and natural beauty through photography.

SHAMEEL NAHAS – Travel Enthusiast & Guide

Shameel Nahas, born and raised in Varkala, combines deep local knowledge with a global perspective. Having lived in four countries and speaking five languages, he brings curiosity, warmth, and cultural insight to every journey. For Shameel, guiding a trail is about the stories, laughter, and small discoveries along the way, not just the path.

His insider’s understanding of Varkala, paired with international experiences, makes every travel experience unique. When not exploring, he works as a market research consultant, reflecting his keen observational skills. At YAANAM 2025, Shameel shared his approach to meaningful travel and connecting with people across cultures.

SHAMEER MACHINGAL – Digital Visual Storyteller & Trainer

Shameer Machingal is a seasoned digital visual storyteller and trainer with two decades of experience in the media sector. Specializing in mobile journalism, he has conducted extensive research and training while exploring AI Visual Grammar for digital video production for the past eight years.

Recognized for his innovative work, Shameer has received numerous accolades including the Girish Omallur Award (2010), P.J. Antony National Documentary Award (2015), State School Arts Festival Award (2016), Thrissur Press Club TV Achuthawarrier Award (2017), and the State Government TV Camera Category Special Jury Award (2019). At YAANAM 2025, he showcased how digital media storytelling can bring dynamic and immersive narratives to life.

RESHMA BHARADWAJ – Assistant Professor & Researcher

Reshma Bharadwaj, Assistant Professor at Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit, Kalady, holds a PhD in Ways of Being: Ontological Insurrections by Little Selves in Keralam from the Department of Social Anthropology, University of Bergen, Norway.

She is the editor of Mithyakalkkappuram, a work on homosexuality in Kerala, and the translator of Romantic Encounters of a Sexworker by Nalini Jameela. Her recent research contributions include a book chapter titled Death, Friendship and Migration of Queer People: Revisiting the Countryside of Keralam. At YAANAM 2025, she shared insights on queer studies, anthropology, and the intersections of identity, culture, and literature.

K. R. MEERA – Writer & Journalist

K. R. Meera, born in Sasthamkotta, Kollam district, Kerala, is one of Kerala’s most influential writers and journalists, celebrated for works that challenge traditional power structures and engage deeply with political and social issues. Her exceptional contributions have earned her prestigious accolades, including the Kendra Sahitya Akademi Award, Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award, PUCL Human Rights National Award for Journalism, Odakkuzhal Award, and Vayalar Award, cementing her status as a leading voice in contemporary Indian literature.

An alumna of D.B College, Sasthamkotta, and Gandhigram Rural Institute, Dindigul, Tamil Nadu, she began her journalism career in 1993 with the Kottayam-based Malayala Manorama. During her reporting tenure, she uncovered significant stories, earning the Chowara Parameswaran Award and the Deepalaya National Journalism Award for Child Rights. At YAANAM 2025, she shared insights on literature, journalism, and the power of storytelling to address social justice.

Why Varkala & Kerala?

Location & Appeal

Varkala is a coastal town noted for its laterite cliffs that drop into the Arabian Sea, tranquil beaches, backwaters and a relaxed laid-back traveller vibe. The dramatic scenery makes it a fitting backdrop for a travel-literature festival.

Kerala Tourism chose this destination to highlight the region’s potential and to integrate cultural tourism, sustainable travel experiences and storytelling. It is part of a broader strategy of experiential tourism.

Strategic Linking to Tourism

The announcement mentions a ₹ 25 crore project to develop tourism infrastructure in the Varkala region (cliff walkways, eco stays, wellness zones) in conjunction with the festival (via Kerala Tourism).

By linking a cultural festival (travel writing) with destination development, Kerala Tourism is using the event as a brand-building tool for Varkala and, by extension, Kerala as a high-quality, story-rich destination.

4. How It Helps Kerala Tourism

YAANAM 2025 serves multiple strategic purposes for Kerala Tourism:

a) Destination Branding & Differentiation

• By promoting Varkala through travel-literature and creative narratives, Kerala sets itself apart from generic beach-tourism offerings.
• The festival attracts not just holiday-makers but creators (writers, vloggers) whose work can further amplify the destination via stories, blogs, social media.
• The inclusion of international speakers increases Kerala’s global visibility in creative tourism circles.

b) Content & Narrative Amplification

• Many attendees will produce content (articles, vlogs, podcasts) about travel, storytelling, Varkala — these act as organic promotion for the destination.
• Workshops and trails make the destination part of the story itself rather than just the backdrop.

c) Sustainable & Experiential Tourism

• The festival emphasises sustainable travel (local sourcing, workshops on wellness, artisan markets). This aligns with Kerala’s existing Responsible Tourism mission.
• The curated trails and offbeat experiences highlight lesser-known spots, thereby distributing tourism benefits more broadly rather than overloading mainstream zones.

d) Economic & Community Impact

• The ₹ 25 crore infrastructure initiative tied to the festival means local employment, improved facilities, better visitor experience.
• The reception committee for the festival includes local government and community leaders, emphasising local participation and ownership(via The Times of India)
• By developing Varkala in this way, Kerala Tourism is adding layers of value (culture + writing + arts + nature) which may attract higher-spend travellers and lengthen stays.

e) Long-Term Tourism Ecosystem Strengthening

• Positioning Varkala not only as a beach destination but as a creative travel hub helps it diversify its appeal (writers, artists, wellness, retreats).
• Events like YAANAM can become recurring annual fixtures, giving the destination repeat visibility and building a calendar of tourism flows beyond the peak season.

5. Key Takeaways for Travellers & Stakeholders

• For travellers: YAANAM offers an experience beyond passive holidaying — you engage with stories, workshops, discovery trails and cultural immersion.
• For travel-writers, photographers and vloggers: It presents a platform to network, learn, and create content in an inspiring destination.
• For Kerala Tourism and local businesses: It’s an opportunity to showcase Varkala’s potential, upgrade infrastructure, and capture the “creative tourism” segment.