Memorial for Vaikom Muhammad Basheer to be opened in Beypore on January 24

Minister for Tourism and Public Works P.A. Mohamed Riyas, who is also the MLA for the constituency, told the media on Thursday (January 22, 2026) that the memorial would serve as a platform for art performances, readings and discussions on the late writer’s works. The plan is to convert the site into a venue for a ‘Basheer Literature Festival’, where his memories can be preserved for future generations. The memorial, situated on B.C. Road in Beypore, will also serve as the main centre of the Malabar Literary Circuit announced in last year’s State Budget. “It is a dream come true for the residents,” Mr. Riyas said.

In the first phase of the project, a two-storey structure spread across 11,000 sq. ft. has been built. It houses a conference hall, cafeteria and washrooms. An open stage with green room facilities and a sales counter for art and handicrafts have also been arranged. Mr. Riyas said the Tourism department had already given administrative approval of ₹10 crore for the second phase of the project. A cultural complex with a ‘Basheer Archives’, board room and library, among other facilities, will be part of it.

A release said the event to declare the opening of the memorial would be held at 5 p.m. Kozhikode Mayor O. Sadashivan would preside over it. Actor Prakash Raj and M.K. Raghavan, MP, would be the chief guests.