What Did PM Modi Mean by Calling V.V. Rajesh His Old Friend?
Synopsis
Prime Minister Modi’s mention of Thiruvananthapuram Mayor V.V. Rajesh during a recent address has stirred political discussions. The Mayor’s absence during the Prime Minister's arrival at the airport raises questions about protocols. Modi's words reflect the BJP's growing influence in Kerala, marking a pivotal moment in local politics.
Key Takeaways
PM Modi acknowledges V.V.
Rajesh as a significant political figure.
Rajesh's election marks a historic moment for the BJP in Kerala.
The absence from the airport reception raised questions about protocol.
The remarks indicate the BJP 's grassroots growth in the state.
The personal touch in political discourse can influence public perception.
Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 23 (NationPress) During a public address on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a significant and personal mention of Thiruvananthapuram Mayor V.V. Rajesh, attracting notable political attention, especially since the Mayor was absent from the list of dignitaries welcoming the Prime Minister at the airport.
According to established protocol, it is customary for the Mayor to greet visiting dignitaries arriving in the state capital.
However, upon Prime Minister Modi's arrival in Thiruvananthapuram, Mayor V.V. Rajesh did not attend the airport reception.
It was later explained that Rajesh was among the dignitaries present on the dais with the Prime Minister during both events in the city, thus he was not part of the airport welcome team.
What particularly stood out was the Prime Minister’s warm mention of the Mayor during his speech.
PM Modi referred to Rajesh as “the pride of Thiruvananthapuram” and “my old friend,” a statement that strongly resonated with party workers and supporters in attendance.
This reference was widely interpreted as a deliberate recognition of Rajesh’s political journey and his importance to the BJP in Kerala.
V.V. Rajesh, who has advanced through the party's ranks, previously held the position of state president of the BJP youth wing, the Yuva Morcha, and later served as the district president in Thiruvananthapuram.
Observers noted that the Prime Minister's reference to him as a friend was a nod to their long association and Rajesh’s recent elevation to the Mayor's position.
Rajesh’s election was historic, marking him as the first BJP Mayor in Kerala after the party's significant victory in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation.
Interestingly, while PM Modi highlighted Rajesh by name, he did not mention state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar or Union Minister of State George Kurian, both of whom were present on the dais.
The Prime Minister's focus on Rajesh’s ascent to the mayoral role was widely seen as a symbolic endorsement of the BJP's growth at the grassroots level in the state.
His remarks added a personal and political dimension to the Prime Minister's visit, emphasizing the importance the BJP places on its first major civic win in Kerala.
Notably, as he departed the first venue, he placed his hand on Rajesh’s shoulders and walked alongside him for a few steps.
Point of View
The Prime Minister’s remarks highlight the evolving political landscape in Kerala. The acknowledgment of Mayor V.V. Rajesh signifies the BJP's efforts to solidify its presence in a state traditionally dominated by other parties. This interaction underlines the importance of personal relationships in politics and the strategic significance of local leadership.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did PM Modi say about Rajesh?
PM Modi referred to V.V. Rajesh as 'the pride of Thiruvananthapuram' and 'my old friend' during his public address.
Why was Rajesh absent at the airport?
Rajesh was not present at the airport reception as he was included among the dignitaries on the dais during the Prime Minister's events in the city.
What is significant about Rajesh's election?
Rajesh's election is historic as he became the first BJP Mayor in Kerala, marking a significant achievement for the party in the region.
How is Modi's reference to Rajesh interpreted?
The Prime Minister's personal reference to Rajesh is seen as a recognition of his political journey and the BJP's growth in Kerala.
