25 February 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : Kerala is buzzing with activity today as several major cultural and trade events take centre stage across the state. From global industry forums to heritage showcases, February 25 has been marked by celebrations and discussions that highlight Kerala’s rich legacy and economic strengths.
International Spice Conference Opens in Kochi
One of the most prominent gatherings in the state today is the International Spice Conference taking place in Kochi. The event has drawn delegates, traders, exporters, policymakers, and researchers from across India and abroad to discuss key trends shaping the global spice market.
The conference focuses on strengthening spice trade and export potential, exploring new markets, and addressing challenges such as sustainability, quality standards, and pricing volatility. With Kerala being one of the world’s leading producers of spices such as pepper, cardamom, and turmeric, the forum serves as a critical platform for stakeholders to network, share insights, and initiate collaborations.
Speakers at the event include industry experts, government officials, and international buyers. Topics on the agenda range from technological interventions in spice processing to certification norms for organic spice exports. The conference also features thematic panels on value addition, branding regional spice clusters, and tapping into emerging markets in the Middle East, Europe, and East Asia.
Aranmula Mirror Exhibition Celebrates Craft Heritage
Another highlight in Kerala’s cultural calendar is the Aranmula Mirror Exhibition, inaugurated today in Aranmula. The exhibition showcases the famed Aranmula Kannadi, an ancient metal-alloy hand-made mirror that holds heritage importance in Kerala’s artisanal traditions.
Craftspeople and heritage practitioners are displaying their work, offering visitors a chance to learn about the historical techniques behind producing these unique mirrors. The Aranmula mirror, known for its distinctive reflective properties and cultural symbolism, has been part of local lore for generations and is considered a treasured craft.
The exhibition includes live demonstrations, storytelling sessions about the mirror’s origin, and workshops where visitors can interact with master artisans. Organisers said the event also aims to promote the craft to younger audiences and support the livelihoods of traditional artisans who have preserved this niche skill over time.
Other Notable Activities Across the State
- In Thiruvananthapuram, cultural centres and art galleries are hosting a range of visual art exhibitions and music recitals that highlight Kerala’s contemporary and classical traditions.
- Student science fairs and academic seminars are being held at major universities, engaging youth in discussions on innovation and sustainable development.
- Local authorities in several districts are conducting tourism promotions and guided heritage walks to attract visitors ahead of the spring season.
Government and Stakeholder Participation
Government officials, including tourism and trade ministers, are expected to participate in key sessions of the International Spice Conference, emphasising Kerala’s strategic role in the global spice economy. Likewise, cultural dignitaries and community leaders are expected to inaugurate related programmes at the Aranmula mirror showcase.
Officials say the convergence of economic and cultural events this February 25 highlights Kerala’s balanced focus on heritage preservation and forward-looking economic initiatives.
Visitors and residents are encouraged to attend these events, which are open to the public with organised schedules shared by local tourism boards and trade associations.
Summary
Kerala’s February 25 highlights include the International Spice Conference in Kochi, drawing global trade leaders, and the Aranmula Mirror Exhibition celebrating heritage craft, alongside cultural and educational events across the state.