The Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (IIMK) and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) have jointly launched a free reading lounge at the domestic departure terminal of the Calicut International Airport. Named ‘Gyan Pankh,’ the lounge was inaugurated by IIMK Director Prof. Debashis Chatterjee and Calicut Airport Director Seshadrivasam Suresh.
Gyan Pankh, which translates to ‘wings of knowledge,’ houses a collection of around 350 books from various categories and languages. The air-conditioned open premium lounge space provided by AAI features cozy reading furniture and spots for a comfortable reading experience. The lounge is accessible 24X7 and is guided by ‘ten commandments’ listed in the reading space, serving as a moral compass for avid readers.
The initiative to establish Gyan Pankh stems from the collaboration between AAI and IIMK to enhance Kozhikode’s reputation as the only Indian city designated as a ‘City of Literature’ by UNESCO. The lounge aims to promote reading habits and pay homage to the power of timeless wisdom.
IIMK, with support from AAI, has curated the book collection, which includes books for all age groups, from toddlers to senior citizens. The lounge also features accessible shelves, comfortable low-height cushioned chairs, and tables.
A wall mural in Gyan Pankh showcases iconic landmarks of Kozhikode alongside literary legends such as M.T. Vasudevan Nair, Vaikom Muhammad Basheer, P. Valsala, and S.K. Pottekkatt, who have strong connections to the city.
Calicut Airport Director Mr. Suresh mentioned that the airport is undergoing a reconfiguration of its terminal building, including the domestic security hold area. Gyan Pankh will be relocated to a more spacious area in the future.
The unique experiment in free reading in public space, customized to meet the needs of flyers, is accessible 24X7 and unmanned. It serves as a testament to the power of reading and knowledge.
