The passing of Achuthanandan has left a profound impact on the political landscape of Kerala.
Tributes Pour In for Influential Indian Communist Leader VS Achuthanandan
Tributes Pour In for Influential Indian Communist Leader VS Achuthanandan
Thousands gather to honor the legacy of the revered Kerala politician.
Thousands of mourners filled the streets of Kerala on Wednesday to pay their respects to VS Achuthanandan, a prominent figure in the Indian communist movement who passed away on Monday at the age of 101. The funeral, set to take place near his hometown in Alappuzha district, will be conducted with full state honors, reflecting the deep admiration many held for the former chief minister of Kerala.
Achuthanandan, fondly referred to as “VS,” was among the founding members of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and played a significant role in shaping Kerala's political narrative. His life was a testament to resilience, rising from a background of poverty after losing both parents at a young age, and eventually becoming a leading voice for the oppressed. "Fighting for the rights of the disadvantaged was the driving force of his life," noted MA Baby, general secretary of the CPI(M), in his tribute to Achuthanandan.
The commemoration of Achuthanandan’s contributions saw attendance from all corners of society, with Kerala's current Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan emphasizing his mentorship and inspirational legacy. Known for his fiery speeches and dedication to social causes, Achuthanandan's political journey began when he joined the Communist Party at just 17 and continued through various leadership roles, including three terms as the opposition leader in the state and 23 years on the Politburo.
His commitment to grassroots activism was evident throughout his career. Historical accounts highlight a notable revolt he led in 1946, where many communists were killed—a sad chapter that underscored the risks associated with his political ideologies. Critics and allies alike praised Achuthanandan's fervor for labor rights, education equity, women's rights, anti-corruption initiatives, and environmental advocacy.
In a reflection of his legacy, former Kerala Chief Minister AK Antony shared memories of listening to Achuthanandan's powerful speeches during his youth, highlighting the indelible mark Achuthanandan left on the political landscape of Kerala. Despite controversies within his party, Achuthanandan remained fixed on championing the people's needs, proving his commitment to the ideals he espoused throughout his life. Following a stroke in 2019, he lived quietly with his family in Thiruvananthapuram until his recent passing, marking the end of an extraordinary chapter in Kerala’s political history.
Achuthanandan, fondly referred to as “VS,” was among the founding members of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and played a significant role in shaping Kerala's political narrative. His life was a testament to resilience, rising from a background of poverty after losing both parents at a young age, and eventually becoming a leading voice for the oppressed. "Fighting for the rights of the disadvantaged was the driving force of his life," noted MA Baby, general secretary of the CPI(M), in his tribute to Achuthanandan.
The commemoration of Achuthanandan’s contributions saw attendance from all corners of society, with Kerala's current Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan emphasizing his mentorship and inspirational legacy. Known for his fiery speeches and dedication to social causes, Achuthanandan's political journey began when he joined the Communist Party at just 17 and continued through various leadership roles, including three terms as the opposition leader in the state and 23 years on the Politburo.
His commitment to grassroots activism was evident throughout his career. Historical accounts highlight a notable revolt he led in 1946, where many communists were killed—a sad chapter that underscored the risks associated with his political ideologies. Critics and allies alike praised Achuthanandan's fervor for labor rights, education equity, women's rights, anti-corruption initiatives, and environmental advocacy.
In a reflection of his legacy, former Kerala Chief Minister AK Antony shared memories of listening to Achuthanandan's powerful speeches during his youth, highlighting the indelible mark Achuthanandan left on the political landscape of Kerala. Despite controversies within his party, Achuthanandan remained fixed on championing the people's needs, proving his commitment to the ideals he espoused throughout his life. Following a stroke in 2019, he lived quietly with his family in Thiruvananthapuram until his recent passing, marking the end of an extraordinary chapter in Kerala’s political history.
