The historic Bolgatty Palace in Kochi is set to host a significant international gathering, as the three-day Global Spice Routes Conclave commences on Tuesday. This premier event aims to shine a spotlight on the shared maritime and cultural legacy of the ancient spice routes and examine their continued relevance in today's interconnected world.
A Confluence of Heritage and Contemporary Discourse
Organized by the Muziris Heritage Project in collaboration with the Kerala Tourism Department, the conclave is designed as a unique intellectual and cultural platform. Its core mission is to bridge the historical significance of the ancient spice route with modern global conversations. The conference will move beyond mere nostalgia, seeking to find practical connections between this rich past and present-day narratives of trade, culture, and sustainability.
The agenda is packed with insightful sessions. Delegates can expect thematic presentations and technical discussions on a range of critical topics. These include strategies for Governing and Sustaining Transnational Heritage Corridors, the challenges and opportunities in Heritage Tourism: Question of Sustainability, and innovative ideas for Reimagining Spice Routes for Tourism. Other key sessions will delve into the Digital Spice Routes, the ongoing project of Muziris Re-imagined, and the exploration of Knowledge Tradition in the Region.
An Immersive Journey into Kerala's Living Culture
A standout feature of the conclave is its commitment to offering delegates a deeply immersive cultural experience. This is not just a conference of talks, but a journey into Kerala's living heritage. The organizers have curated special engagements that bring history to life.
Participants will be treated to The Muziris Experience, which involves curated heritage trails across key archaeological and historical sites linked to the Muziris port. This exploration will be combined with a traditional sea voyage, allowing delegates to literally sail the waters that once carried ancient spice traders.
Further enriching the experience will be a Contemporary Art Engagement through a special visit to the acclaimed Kochi-Muziris Biennale 2025-26. The conclave will also celebrate Performing Traditions with soulful renditions of Kerala Jewish songs and a compelling performance of the vibrant classical art form, Chavittu Nadakam.
Visual Narratives Through Photography
Adding a powerful visual dimension to the event, three distinct photographic exhibitions will be held at the main venue in association with Aazhi Archives. Attendees can view Chavittunatakam by K R Sunil, Seeing is Believing by Biju Ibrahim, and Migrant Dreams from the Aazhi Archives collection. These exhibitions promise to offer poignant perspectives on the region's cultural and social fabric.
The Global Spice Routes Conclave represents a major initiative to position Kerala's ancient cosmopolitan history at the center of global discussions on heritage, sustainable tourism, and cultural diplomacy. By reconnecting the threads of the past with the present, the event seeks to chart a meaningful course for the future of this shared legacy.
