Dallas Kerala Literary Society Launches 2026 Programs with Arts & Film Focus

Dallas, TX – The Kerala Literary Society (KLS) Dallas officially launched its 2026 program of events on February 8th, hosting a successful inaugural gathering that blended literature, film and cultural exchange. The event, held at the Dallas Kerala Association Conference Hall in Garland, drew a diverse audience of community leaders and cultural figures from the expatriate community.

The program commenced with renditions of the American and Indian national anthems, performed by Lia Nebu and Alstar Mampilly. Bajji Odamveli, the organization’s secretary, extended a warm welcome and presented the society’s plan for the year. Anashwar Mampilly, the KLS Dallas president, delivered the presidential address, setting the tone for an evening dedicated to celebrating Malayalam literature and the arts.

Renowned film director Shaji M. Inaugurated the proceedings by lighting the traditional lamp. His address focused on the profound influence of literature and art on the expatriate experience, resonating with attendees who navigate the complexities of maintaining cultural ties while living abroad. A musical performance by Deepa Jaison Alappadan followed, adding to the evening’s artistic atmosphere.

Rajesh Varghese inaugurated the society’s mobile library, emphasizing the importance of reading and accessibility to literary resources. He delivered a special address about the library’s mission, and C.V. George, Joint Treasurer, formally accepted the books on behalf of the society. A poetry recitation by Usha Nair also captivated the audience.

Representatives from various organizations extended their greetings and support. Shiju Abraham, President of the Kerala Association, Sunny Maliekkal, President of IPCNT, Mathew Ninan, President of ICEC, and Samuel Yohannan, President of LANA, all spoke, highlighting the importance of cultural organizations like KLS Dallas in fostering a sense of community.

The evening continued with musical performances by Jason Alappadan and Alstar Mampilly, providing a vibrant interlude. However, the centerpiece of the event was a literary session centered around the theme “Literature and Cinema.” S.N. Swamy, a celebrated screenwriter, participated in the discussion remotely, contributing his expertise to the conversation. Director Shaji M. Delivered an extensive lecture exploring the relationship between the two art forms.

The subsequent discussion saw active participation from Rajan Chittar (producer and actor), Joe Kaithamattam (producer and actor), Haridas Thankappan (LANA Treasurer), Santhosh Pilla (playwright), P.P. Cheriyan, Siju V. George, and Francis Thottathil, each offering unique perspectives on the interplay between literature and cinema. Sarah Cherian, Treasurer, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all those who contributed to the event’s success.

Darshana Manayath skillfully served as the master of ceremonies, ensuring the smooth flow of the program. The event underscored the KLS Dallas’s commitment to providing a platform for literary and cultural expression within the Kerala expatriate community.

The Kerala Literary Society Dallas is a non-political, non-profit, secular organization dedicated to fostering a common forum for individuals, generally of Kerala origin, interested in literary pursuits. The organization’s inauguration signals a renewed focus on promoting Malayalam literature and cultural exchange within the Dallas area. According to a Facebook page for the group, it currently has 174 members. The society aims to bring together writers and cultural leaders, as evidenced by the participation of figures like Shaji M. And S.N. Swamy at the launch event.

The event also builds on existing literary activity in the Dallas area. The Dallas Malayalee Association (DMA) hosts a range of literary events, including poetry nights, book clubs focused on Kerala authors, and children’s storytelling workshops. While the DMA’s schedule currently lists events through August 2024, the KLS Dallas’s launch suggests a growing and diversifying literary landscape for the Malayalam-speaking community in North Texas.

The focus on “Literature and Cinema” at the inaugural event is particularly noteworthy, reflecting a broader trend of exploring the intersection of different art forms. The participation of S.N. Swamy, a prominent screenwriter, highlights the importance of cinematic storytelling within the Kerala literary tradition. The KLS Dallas’s interactive session with Malayalam students and faculty at UT Austin in November 2025, featuring novelist E. Santhosh Kumar, further demonstrates the organization’s commitment to engaging with both established and emerging voices in Malayalam literature.