Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla addressed the inaugural ceremony of the 29th Kochi International Book Festival in Kochi, Kerala, on October 30, 2026. He emphasized that books serve as powerful instruments for transforming lives, broadening perspectives, and inspiring positive societal change rather than merely being sources of information. While acknowledging that digital technology enhances access to information, Birla stressed that true knowledge and wisdom derive from books and life experiences, with reading cultivating curiosity, sensitivity, and the ability to understand diverse perspectives.
Birla highlighted India's extraordinary diversity in languages, religions, traditions, and ways of life as its unique strength, noting that democracy serves as the binding force uniting the nation. He emphasized that democracy teaches respect for differing opinions and ideologies while maintaining national unity. Regarding linguistic diversity, Birla stated that languages connect rather than divide people, with India's rich linguistic traditions preserving and promoting cultural, spiritual, and intellectual heritage.
The Speaker acknowledged Kerala's distinction as India's first fully literate state and praised its contributions to education, literature, science, and technology. He specifically noted the state's traditions of service and sacrifice, particularly women's contributions to nursing and healthcare worldwide. Birla recalled Shri P. N. Panicker's pioneering role in Kerala's library movement, which transformed literacy and socio-economic development, and highlighted the state's ongoing efforts to promote reading through 'Vayana Dinam' (Reading Day) observed on June 19.
Birla commended the Kochi International Book Festival organizers for bringing together literary stakeholders and promoting intellectual exchange, reading habits, and access to diverse ideas. He called for greater efforts to share Kerala's rich literary, spiritual, and cultural heritage through books and translations. The event was attended by former ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somanath, International Book Festival Chairman Shri Madhu S. Nair, Shri Prakash Babu, Sahitya Akademi Secretary Dr. Varun Gulati, and various literary figures and book enthusiasts.