VS Achuthanandan turns 101, quiet celebration for 'Fidel Castro of Kerala'

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: VS Achuthanandan, the iconic leader often hailed as the "Fidel Castro of Kerala," marked his 101st birthday today without any grand celebrations. However, party workers and admirers ensured the day did not go unnoticed, commemorating the occasion with the distribution of laddus. Many activists showed up wearing badges adorned with VS's image.

Among those who extended birthday wishes to the veteran leader were Goa Governor PS Sreedharan Pillai, Ministers GR Anil and V Sivankutty. CPM state secretary MV Govindan, former politburo member S Ramachandran Pillai, and other dignitaries paid personal visits to his home at Barton Hill, Thiruvananthapuram. Several prominent figures also conveyed their greetings over the phone.

“There’s always payasam on his birthday and this time is no different. After that, a cake will be cut but beyond that, there are no other celebrations,” said his son, Arun Kumar, to the media.

Although VS has been away from the public eye for the past five years due to health issues, his influence remains deeply cherished across Kerala. A stroke in 2019, just before his 96th birthday, severely impacted his health. Despite suffering from paralysis, he gradually regained some movement in his right hand. In November 2021, he faced yet another health challenge when he was hospitalized for kidney failure. Nevertheless, none of these illnesses have defeated his indomitable spirit.

Nowadays, VS starts his day at 8 am, reading four newspapers, including Kerala Kaumudi. It has also become his routine to spend time in the veranda of his house in a wheelchair, both in the morning and evening. Achuthanandan now enjoys a peaceful life in the house built by his son, continuing to be a revered figure in Kerala’s political landscape.