What is between AGORA and Kanakakkunnu

One is ancient, the other relatively modern. One belongs to the East, the other to the West. AGORA and Kanakakkunnu Palace have little in common, at least at first glance. However, the venue Asianet News has chosen for its first-ever festival of ideas carries the same spirit of public gatherings, lively discussions and exchange of ideas that defined the ancient Greek Agoras. The Agora in the ancient Greek city of Athens was the civic centre where Athenian democracy ​p​icked up its alphabets. From the sixth century BC, the Athenian Agora served as​ a public space where people gathered, exchanged ideas and debated matters that shaped their society. It was a bustling centre of political, commercial and intellectual life. The Agora was also closely associated with Greek philosophers, particularly Socrates, who engaged in conversations and debates in public spaces. It is more than a coincidence that Kanakakkunnu Palace and its premises serve as a cultural hub of Keralam's capital. Built in the 19th century, the palace has evolved from a royal retreat into a popular gathering place for cultural events, exhibitions and public discussions. In many ways, it serves as a modern-day Agora, bringing people together for the exchange of ideas and culture in Thiruvananthapuram. With multiple auditoriums and gathering spaces, there could hardly be a better location to host Asianet News' AGORA – the festival of ideas. AGORA​'26 is conceptualised neither as a clichéd conclave nor a fatigued festival. It is a brand that nurtures curious minds and creates a legacy for youngsters. During the three-day festival, scheduled from November 27 to 29, 2026, Asianet News will bring together more than 200 experts from various fields, including scientists, academics, policymakers, thought leaders, technocrats and writers. Disruptive ideas that could shape our future will be at the centre of the discussions. Just as the ancient Athenian Agora helped lay the foundations of democracy, Kanakakkunnu Palace in Thiruvananthapuram is now getting ready to host conversations that could shape our future – a future that is brighter and stronger. You too can be part of these conversations and help shape the future.