Thousands have gathered in Kerala to bid farewell to V.S. Achuthanandan, a revered leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), who passed away at the remarkable age of 101. Known affectionately as "VS," he died on Monday, leaving a profound impact on the state's political landscape. His funeral on Wednesday promises full state honors, reflecting his immense influence as a former chief minister and a driving force in Kerala's communist history.
Achuthanandan's journey from a childhood marked by hardship—losing both parents by age 11—to becoming a significant political figure is nothing short of inspiring. His commitment to fighting for the rights of the marginalized resonated throughout his career, with thousands paying their respects by flooding the streets. Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan described Achuthanandan as a wellspring of inspiration and knowledge, highlighting his role in advocating for workers, farmers, and social justice.
Having started his political career as a teenager in a coir factory, Achuthanandan quickly rose through the ranks, eventually leading protests and enduring no small amount of hardship, including imprisonment. His legacy is bound with monumental struggles for labor rights, education, and anti-corruption, making him a beloved figure comparable to West Bengal's Jyoti Basu. Even after facing setbacks within his party, Achuthanandan remained a steadfast voice for the people, underscoring his dedication to social issues until his retirement following a stroke in 2019. Now, as the community mourns his loss, his life’s work continues to inspire future generations.
Achuthanandan's journey from a childhood marked by hardship—losing both parents by age 11—to becoming a significant political figure is nothing short of inspiring. His commitment to fighting for the rights of the marginalized resonated throughout his career, with thousands paying their respects by flooding the streets. Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan described Achuthanandan as a wellspring of inspiration and knowledge, highlighting his role in advocating for workers, farmers, and social justice.
Having started his political career as a teenager in a coir factory, Achuthanandan quickly rose through the ranks, eventually leading protests and enduring no small amount of hardship, including imprisonment. His legacy is bound with monumental struggles for labor rights, education, and anti-corruption, making him a beloved figure comparable to West Bengal's Jyoti Basu. Even after facing setbacks within his party, Achuthanandan remained a steadfast voice for the people, underscoring his dedication to social issues until his retirement following a stroke in 2019. Now, as the community mourns his loss, his life’s work continues to inspire future generations.
