Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, 1 June 2025, extended birthday greetings to Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, who turned 62 — marking the milestone during his first year in office as head of the Kerala state government. The Prime Minister's message on social media platform X was among the earliest to draw public attention as leaders from across the political spectrum joined in the wishes.

Modi's Message on X

In his post on X, Prime Minister Modi wrote: 'Birthday wishes to Keralam CM, Shri VD Satheesan Ji. May he be blessed with a long life and good health.' The message stood out given the distinct political positions of the two leaders — Modi leading the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at the Centre, and Satheesan heading the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) government in Kerala.

NDA's Thushar Vellappally Visits Satheesan

Bharath Dharma Jana Sena (BDJS) state president Thushar Vellappally, whose party is a constituent of the NDA in Kerala, visited Satheesan at his residence in Aluva to personally convey his wishes. Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Vellappally was quick to dispel political speculation. 'It was only a courtesy call. Satheesan and I have known each other for many years,' he said, adding that the meeting should not be read through a political lens.

The visit drew notice in political circles given the sharp rivalry between the ruling UDF government and the NDA in Kerala. However, leaders from both sides underscored that personal bonds often cut across partisan lines.

Satheesan's Political Journey

Before assuming office as Chief Minister, Satheesan served as Leader of Opposition in the Kerala Assembly, where he was widely credited with revitalising the Indian National Congress (Congress) organisation and bolstering the UDF's footprint across the state. He led the Congress-led alliance to a decisive victory in the Assembly elections, after which he was sworn in as Chief Minister.

Since taking charge, Satheesan has prioritised governance reforms, welfare initiatives, infrastructure development, and measures aimed at attracting investment and generating employment in the state.

Greetings Pour In Across the State

Birthday wishes arrived from senior Congress leaders, cabinet colleagues, coalition partners, Members of Parliament, legislators, and representatives from social and cultural organisations. Party workers across Kerala marked the occasion by organising blood donation camps, charitable activities, and community service programmes.

Political observers noted that both Modi's message and Vellappally's personal visit reflected a democratic tradition of maintaining cordial personal ties despite active political rivalry — a dynamic that will continue to be watched as Kerala heads toward its next electoral cycle.