Thousands filled the streets to honor VS Achuthanandan, who died at the age of 101 on Monday. His funeral will take place on Wednesday, drawing attention to his significant role as a founding member and a former chief minister of Kerala's Communist Party of India (Marxist).
Achuthanandan's journey is a remarkable one; born into poverty and subjected to police brutality, he became a beloved champion for the oppressed throughout his political career. After being hospitalized for a cardiac arrest last month, the news of his passing prompted deep tributes from all corners of Kerala.
"Fighting for the rights of the oppressed and the exploited was the guiding principle of his life," said MA Baby, general secretary of CPI(M). Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan referred to him as a "limitless repository of inspiration and lessons," highlighting Achuthanandan's impact not only as chief minister but also as a leader of opposition on multiple occasions.
Achuthanandan's legacy is characterized by his grassroots activism—he began working at a young age and joined the Communist Party at 17. His commitment to labor rights, education, and social justice earned him respect across the political spectrum. AK Antony, a former chief minister of the Congress party, shared how he was inspired by Achuthanandan's speeches during his school days.
Throughout his life, Achuthanandan faced numerous challenges, including leading a rebellion in 1946 against oppressive state authorities, resulting in years of imprisonment. Despite suffering setbacks, he returned to the political scene, serving as Kerala's chief minister from 2006–2011. Achuthanandan's strong stance on various social issues including women's rights and anti-corruption measures contributed to his enduring popularity.
After suffering a stroke in 2019, he remained quietly active until his recent passing, leaving behind a legacy rooted firmly in advocating for the marginalized and voicing the struggles of common people. His funeral will be attended by many who seek to honor a life dedicated to social justice in Kerala.
Achuthanandan's journey is a remarkable one; born into poverty and subjected to police brutality, he became a beloved champion for the oppressed throughout his political career. After being hospitalized for a cardiac arrest last month, the news of his passing prompted deep tributes from all corners of Kerala.
"Fighting for the rights of the oppressed and the exploited was the guiding principle of his life," said MA Baby, general secretary of CPI(M). Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan referred to him as a "limitless repository of inspiration and lessons," highlighting Achuthanandan's impact not only as chief minister but also as a leader of opposition on multiple occasions.
Achuthanandan's legacy is characterized by his grassroots activism—he began working at a young age and joined the Communist Party at 17. His commitment to labor rights, education, and social justice earned him respect across the political spectrum. AK Antony, a former chief minister of the Congress party, shared how he was inspired by Achuthanandan's speeches during his school days.
Throughout his life, Achuthanandan faced numerous challenges, including leading a rebellion in 1946 against oppressive state authorities, resulting in years of imprisonment. Despite suffering setbacks, he returned to the political scene, serving as Kerala's chief minister from 2006–2011. Achuthanandan's strong stance on various social issues including women's rights and anti-corruption measures contributed to his enduring popularity.
After suffering a stroke in 2019, he remained quietly active until his recent passing, leaving behind a legacy rooted firmly in advocating for the marginalized and voicing the struggles of common people. His funeral will be attended by many who seek to honor a life dedicated to social justice in Kerala.
