PM Narendra Modi addresses rally in Thiruvalla, begins speech in Malayalam

PATHANAMTHITTA: The public meeting held in Thiruvalla as part of the election campaign of NDA candidates in the district turned into a massive gathering. Prime Minister Narendra Modi energised party workers by speaking in Malayalam and playing rhythms on the traditional Padayani thappu on stage.

Modi began his speech in Malayalam, saying, “My dear brothers and sisters in Kerala, greetings to all.” He described Thiruvalla as the sacred land of Sree Vallabha and as part of the holy region associated with the Sabarimala Temple pilgrimage. He also said he bows before Lord Ayyappa.

The Prime Minister said that Kerala’s overall development should begin from Thiruvalla and added that the state would move forward on a strong development path in the coming years. Tens of thousands of party workers from Pathanamthitta and nearby constituencies gathered at the Thiruvalla Public Stadium to see him.

Modi received a culturally rich welcome at the venue. BJP leader Anoop Antony presented him with a traditional “Padayani thappu.” The Prime Minister played the instrument briefly, drawing cheers from the crowd.

In Thiruvalla, which is considered a minority-influenced region, the BJP’s Kottayam District Committee also presented him with a model of Christ. NDA candidates were present on the stage along with the Prime Minister during the event.

The Prime Minister arrived by helicopter at the NSS Hindu College ground in Changanassery, Kottayam, earlier in the day. He then travelled by road to Thiruvalla, about eight kilometres away, to attend the public meeting at the Thiruvalla Public Stadium. This is his second visit to the state within a week.