With the demise of veteran congress leader Vakkom B. Purushothaman, it is curtains to a glorious era of congress rein in Kerala politics. He was one rare gene of politician who coveted the tenet of working for the welfare of the people. His decorated political life gave him many titles including a minister, but nevertheless the roles, Vakkom graced everywhere and duly continued his work for people amidst his sunset years. His incredible grit and willpower were largely palpable in every move he made. His administrative skills were top tier along with his veridical executions in political priorities. Vakkom Purushothaman was a politician in his own class.

In his first tenure in Legislative Assembly after getting successfully elected from Attingal, Vakkom was given ministerial portfolios including agriculture, labor, tourism, health, excise, and finance at various times. THE KERALA LOADING AND UNLOADING ( REGULATION OF WAGES AND RESTRICTION OF UNLAWFUL PRACTICES)ACT, 2002, and major agricultural reforms were Vakkom's brainchild. While handling the health portfolio, a melange of reforms was brought in that is still helping the health department with profits.

Vakkom once revealed the most satisfying part of his career and he pointed to his stint as Lieutenant Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. While at the office, Vakkom never missed his daily stroll on the pathways of Portblair greeting residents and engaging in idle talks, politics, and sometimes complaints and concerns from residents. Many such complaints were settled in hours' time by Vakkom. Vakkom's touch of grace was reflected largely in the development of Andaman which forces us to fondly remember a time when the residents wanted him back as Governor and were pleading with the authorities to take necessary steps. Even Mother Teresa wrote him letters praising his efforts to conserve and make Andaman an idyllic spot in India.

Vakkam's contributions as Kerala Assembly Speaker were immeasurable by all means. His icy stares were all famous across the assembly while his grit to complete the proceedings in a timely manner overcoming all hindrances was adulated much. It won't be that superfluous to rate him as the best speaker Kerala has ever produced.

Vakkam was exemplary in providing opportunities for introducing bills and conducting government business according to rules. Vakkam’s brilliance also reached Parliament as well. He also served as the Chairman of the Public Undertakings Committee during his tenure as MP. Unlike many other leaders of his time, Vakkom never went at odds with the high command and always nurtured great bonhomie with the Gandhis. Vakkom was the governor of Mizoram when the order reached his office about the shift as he was expected to take charge soon as the governor of Nagaland. Vakkom curtly denied the offer and returned to his hometown in Kerala.

Vakkom always revered his father Bhanu Panicker and never missed any opportunity to praise his father for whatever good comportment his son showed. Bhanu Panicker was a well-recognized businessman and a public figure. Panicker prioritized good education for all his children and thus it still remains a confusing fable about how Vakkom stepped into the realm of politics rather than trailing some lucrative business.

Although there were many factions in Congress, Vakkam dismissed all attempts to rope him into extreme group politics. He always carried the guts to truly express any dissonance, even if it meant delivering the talk straight to the person he loathes. However, this might have deducted his chances to reach the crescendo of powers in Kerala politics.

Beyond the barrier of politics, Vakkom was a great host and was in bonhomie with many leaders. The only grief he carried was his son's untimely death, which took a heavy toll on the congressman.

'Kerala Kaumudi made me who I am' was Vakkom’s quintessential statement. We bow before the cherished memories of dear Vakkam Purushothaman. We offer our condolences to the family members and Congress workers.