Why Are Thousands Paying Their Last Respects to V.S. Achuthanandan?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The passing of V.S. Achuthanandan, a revered Communist leader, has led to an outpouring of grief in Kerala. Thousands gathered in Thiruvananthapuram to pay their respects, reflecting his enduring legacy in the political landscape of India. Join us as we explore the profound impact of his life and contributions.
Key Takeaways
- V.S. Achuthanandan was a key figure in Kerala’s political history.
- His leadership spanned over several decades, influencing many generations.
- He was respected even after his retirement from public life.
- A public holiday was declared to honor his contributions.
- His legacy will be remembered by both supporters and political contemporaries.
Thiruvananthapuram, July 22 (NationPress) The final farewell for Communist stalwart V.S. Achuthanandan from Thiruvananthapuram began on Tuesday, with a state-operated passenger bus adorned with flowers.
The state capital has been his residence since 1967, when he first secured a seat as a legislator.
Commonly referred to as VS, the prominent leader passed away at a private hospital on Monday at 3:20 p.m., at the age of 101.
On Tuesday morning, the body of the former Chief Minister was transported from his son's residence to the grand Durbar Hall located within the State Secretariat—the hub of the government he led from 2006 to 2011.
At 1 p.m., the body was placed aboard the bus, marking its departure from the Secretariat where he had presided over from 2006 to 2011.
Both large windows on either side of the bus were removed to allow the public a clearer view of their beloved leader.
Numerous individuals walked alongside the bus as it traveled slowly, with the first brief stop occurring at the Kerala Legislative Assembly (new premises), where he served as Leader of Opposition on two occasions, Chief Minister once, and legislator once.
Along the route, crowds chanted slogans in Malayalam, meaning “Achuthanandan will never die.”
Even after retiring from public life in January 2020, VS continued to be held in high esteem.
A long procession of vehicles carrying Ministers, legislators, and others followed behind the bus.
A public holiday was declared for Kerala on Tuesday, and another public holiday has been announced for Wednesday, when the final rites will take place in his hometown of Alappuzha.
Top national leaders of the CPI-M, including general secretary M.A. Baby, who served as Education Minister in Achuthanandan's cabinet, along with former general secretaries Prakash Karat and Brinda Karat, came to pay their last respects.
In Alappuzha, the body will be displayed at his home.
On Wednesday, the body will proceed to the district CPI-M office and then to the seaside before heading to the cremation ground at Valiyachudukad around 4 p.m., where the pyre will be ignited.
Achuthanandan was among the founding members of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), which emerged in 1964 following a division from the CPI.
He, along with a group of comrades, departed from the original Communist Party of India, marking a pivotal ideological transition. He leaves behind his wife, son, and daughter.
Point of View
I believe that V.S. Achuthanandan's passing signifies the end of an era in Kerala politics. His dedication to the Communist movement and his unwavering commitment to the people will always be remembered. It is crucial for us to reflect on the substantial contributions he made and the lessons he imparted throughout his political career.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was V.S. Achuthanandan known for?
V.S. Achuthanandan was a prominent leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and served as the Chief Minister of Kerala from 2006 to 2011. He is revered for his contributions to Kerala's political landscape and the Communist movement.
When did V.S. Achuthanandan pass away?
He passed away on July 21, 2023, at 3:20 p.m. in a private hospital.
What significance does the public holiday hold?
The public holiday declared in Kerala honors Achuthanandan's memory and allows citizens to pay their respects during his final rites.
Where will Achuthanandan's final rites take place?
His final rites are scheduled to take place in his hometown of Alappuzha.
How did the public react to his passing?
Thousands gathered to pay their respects, showcasing the profound impact he had on the community and his lasting legacy.
