Manorama HORTUS is a multidisciplinary festival of literature and the arts, bringing together writers, artists, thinkers, humanitarians, politicians, sportspersons, entertainers and audiences across borders. Over four days, the festival unfolds through conversations, readings, performances, exhibitions, workshops and exchanges that cross the boundaries between disciplines.

Rooted in the spirit of creative inquiry, the festival takes its name from Hortus Malabaricus, the 17th-century botanical compendium that mapped the rich flora of the Malabar coast.

Following its debut on the shores of the Arabian Sea in Kozhikode, Kerala’s first UNESCO City of Literature, HORTUS now comes to Kochi—another city shaped by water, trade, and cultural exchange. Long a gateway between worlds, Kochi today remains cosmopolitan, inclusive, and constantly reinventing itself.

From 27 to 30 November 2025, the festival will unfold across public and familiar spaces near Vembanad Lake, welcoming readers, listeners, and seekers to explore a wide spectrum of experiences. The second edition of HORTUS will bring together literature, talks and debates, stand-up comedy, crafts, culinary arts, theatre, music, dance, visual arts, photography, performance, films, video art, as well as a dedicated pavilion for children.

This is a space where culture comes alive in many forms—shared, inclusive, and belonging to everyone. HORTUS 2025 invites all to celebrate, ignite, enrich, and reflect.