Stories that shape Kochi

The People Place Project is a publishing initiative that looks at books as a way of engaging deeper with the places and people around us. That is made possible by delving into the everyday stories, unknown histories and lost stories. Currently, the project is exploring the ‘People Called’ series, where places are looked at through the framework of 'People'. After all, a place is made its people. And often through these personal narratives, a collective story of the city evolves, very intimately. ‘People Called Mumbai’, ‘People Called Ahmedabad’ and ‘People Called Shillong’ have already been published with these collected stories and ‘People Called Kolkata’ will release soon. The project is now set to take off in Kochi and here is your chance to let loose the writer in you.

‘People Called Kochi’ will be an anthology of 50 to 55 true stories of the 'people' from the city, which will in turn become a window to know the city. It can be the story of anyone, from any socio-economic background whom you think defines the spirit of your city.

As a part of this six-month long campaign, ‘My People My Place’, there are plans to introduce different curatorial themes every week. The deadline is the next weekend, so that one has enough time to interview someone, reflect on it and write the story. There are also plans to open up the book making process, right from designing the cover to discussing the curatorial. From time to time, experts will be hosted and practitioners will talk about the city and give insights and story ideas.

At the end of six months, one can expect the manuscript of the book to be aligned and make it one of the most comprehensive books about Kochi. Those interested can register online. A workshop in this regard will take place at Pepper House Library between 10 am and 1 pm on March 16 and 17.