KOTTAYAM: Actor Jayaram was among the crowd who offered prayers at the tomb of former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on his ninth death day. After participating in the Holy Mass, Jayaram reached the grave where Oommen Chandy was buried with folded hands. Jayaram recalled that Oommen Chandy was like a member of the family. 'Oommen Chandy who reached early at the Ernakulam Town Hall, where my wedding reception was organized, waited for two and a half hours at the stairs. He was also the first one to bless me and my wife. He has been closely associated with my family for over 35 years. When my son got his first state award, he was lucky enough to receive it from those hands. At the last call on his birthday, Achu said that it was a little difficult for him to speak. I said that I could make a video call after a while and asked if he could just wave a hand. I immediately called and he gestured with his hand as if to bless me. I couldn't see him in person for the last time," Jayaram said sadly.

Among the crowd were those who had reached Kottayam on the early morning Malabar Express and arrived before the church opened. The Holy Mass held in the morning at St.George's Orthodox Valiyapally was presided over by Yuhanon Mar Diascoros Metropolitan of Kottayam Bhadrasana. Kunnamkulam Bhadrasana Dr. Geevarghese Mar Yulios Metropolitan and several priests officiated. Later, a special incense prayer was held at Oommen Chandy's grave. The next ceremony in the church will be on the 30th day. MLAs Thiruvanjoor Radhakrishnan, PC Vishnunath, senior Congress leader KC Joseph and others were also present.