What Caused Thousands to Gather for V.S. Achuthanandan's Last Journey?
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Synopsis
In a heartfelt farewell, thousands lined the streets of Kerala to honor the late Communist stalwart V.S. Achuthanandan. His final journey from Thiruvananthapuram to Alappuzha has become a testament to the love and respect he garnered throughout his life. Discover the emotional scenes and tributes as the community comes together in remembrance.
Key Takeaways
- V.S. Achuthanandan was a revered Communist leader in Kerala.
- His final journey began in Thiruvananthapuram and progressed slowly due to an overwhelming turnout.
- The hearse covered only 145 kilometers in over 21 hours.
- Public viewing will occur at multiple locations, including his residence and a special pandal.
- The cremation is scheduled for after 5 p.m. at Veliyachudukadu.
Thiruvananthapuram, July 23 (NationPress) A sea of mourners filled the streets of Kerala as they gathered to pay their final respects to the esteemed Communist leader, V.S. Achuthanandan. This poignant journey commenced from the state capital over 21 hours ago, making its way toward his home district of Alappuzha.
Beginning at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, the procession has been a slow march for the state-owned passenger bus adorned with flowers, carrying the leader's coffin.
Typically, this route would take about four hours to traverse.
By 11 a.m. on Wednesday, after an exhausting 21 hours, the hearse had only covered 145 kilometers, with just 7 kilometers remaining to reach Alappuzha.
M.V. Govindan, the CPI(M) state secretary traveling with the hearse, expressed to the media on Wednesday morning that the turnout has been extraordinary, causing all planned arrangements to falter.
“Countless people have come forward to bid farewell to VS, and managing the crowd has become increasingly challenging. Given the current situation, we are looking to shorten the public viewing time since cremation is scheduled for later in the evening,” stated Govindan.
Meanwhile, at his residence in Alappuzha, which he acquired 58 years ago, locals have formed a two-kilometer line.
Since the hearse began its journey, thousands have braved heavy rain and darkness, waiting for hours. When the hearse finally arrived, many were seen in tears and chanting slogans in honor of VS, a name that resonates deeply with the people.
Since winning his first election as a legislator in 1967, the state capital has served as his second home.
V.S. Achuthanandan passed away at a private hospital on Monday at 3:20 p.m., reaching the age of 101.
Upon arrival in Alappuzha, the hearse will stop at three designated locations: his residence, the CPI(M) district committee office where he became secretary at 31, and a specially erected pandal by the seashore that can accommodate 3,000 people for public viewing.
From there, the body will be taken to its final resting place at Veliyachudukadu, where the cremation is expected to occur after 5 p.m.
Even though VS stepped away from public life in January 2020, the overwhelming turnout reflects the affection the people of Kerala hold for him. A statewide holiday was declared on Tuesday in his honor, with Alappuzha district also observing a public holiday on Wednesday.
Prominent national leaders of the CPI(M), including General Secretary M.A. Baby, who served as Education Minister in VS’s cabinet, along with former General Secretary Prakash Karat, Brinda Karat, and numerous other leaders, also came to pay their final tributes.
Point of View
I emphasize that the monumental turnout for V.S. Achuthanandan's final journey reflects the deep-rooted respect and affection the people of Kerala have for their leaders. This emotional gathering serves as a reminder of the legacy he has left behind. While the nation mourns, it is crucial to recognize the significance of his contributions and the impact he had on the political landscape.
NationPress
23/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are so many people attending V.S. Achuthanandan's final journey?
The massive turnout is a testament to the deep respect and admiration the people of Kerala have for V.S. Achuthanandan, reflecting his significant contributions to the community throughout his life.
What were the arrangements made for the public viewing?
The body will be placed at several locations for public viewing, including his residence, the CPI(M) district committee office, and a specially erected pandal by the seashore that can accommodate 3,000 people.
When is the cremation scheduled to take place?
The cremation is slated to occur at Veliyachudukadu after 5 p.m.
What was V.S. Achuthanandan's age at the time of his passing?
V.S. Achuthanandan passed away at the age of 101.
What was the significance of the public holiday declared in his honor?
The statewide holiday declared on Tuesday, along with the public holiday in Alappuzha on Wednesday, highlights the respect and mourning observed by the community for their beloved leader.
