Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 1 (NationPress) After an eight-month hiatus from public appearances, the iconic actor Mammootty emotionally resonated with attendees at the celebration for the 'extreme poverty-free state' declaration on Saturday. He referred to Kerala as 'younger' than himself and a persistent example of community-driven advancement.

“Kerala has consistently astonished the globe with its social metrics and progressive nature, thanks to our democratic principles,” Mammootty stated, setting the atmosphere for the event at Thiruvananthapuram's Central Stadium.

He highlighted that the state’s social triumphs arise from its citizens’ “unwavering dedication to social ideology.”

“Real development can only occur when hunger and starvation are entirely eradicated. This is not the reality in numerous places, yet it has been accomplished in Kerala. Any development is incomplete if people go hungry,” he remarked, eliciting loud cheers from the crowd.

Earlier, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan characterized the poverty-free declaration as “the dawn of a new Kerala” and “a stepping stone to the state’s renaissance.”

He noted that this achievement epitomized the collective will of the population and the government’s ongoing efforts.

“Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in Kerala’s history. We present ourselves to the world with pride and dignity,” Vijayan affirmed, emphasizing that the initiative was not merely a publicity stunt, but a significant social accomplishment.

The Chief Minister mentioned that the state had triumphed over extreme poverty through synchronized welfare programs, providing food, shelter, and healthcare to over 64,000 families.

He stressed that the Left-led government had honored each of its promises.

“We have turned promises into reality. Over 470,000 houses have been constructed. Kerala has demonstrated that nothing is unattainable when society unites,” he stated.

Vijayan urged for continued vigilance, stating that the journey toward a “New Kerala” is far from over, yet has entered a critical phase where inclusivity and social justice will remain paramount.

However, despite earlier announcements that the event would feature two other legendary stars -- Mohanlal and Kamal Haasan -- neither attended. The Congress-led opposition, which had previously boycotted the Kerala Assembly session, also stayed away from the event, labeling it a “sham.”