THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Tuesday was the final day of the week-long festival ‘Keraleeyam’ and the podium was graced by an unexpected guest— BJP leader O Rajagopal. The former MLA praised the programme and later said “Good things should be appreciated, no matter whoever does it”.

O Rajagopal in a quirky jibe also hit out at BJP leadership, saying there is no point in opposing the ‘Keraleeyam’ fest and said he doesn’t know why the BJP is opposing it. Midway through his welcome address, CM Pinarayi Vijayan took time to welcome O Rajagopal, which raised many eyes. Meanwhile, CPM State Secretary MV Govindan came all the way to Rajagopal and shook hands in a cordial gesture.

Opposition parties such as BJP and Congress did not participate in the event.

While addressing the audience, CM Pinarayi Vijayan termed the week-long festival ‘Keraleeyam’ as a success.

“ ‘Keraleeyam’ is a success. People opposing it are not against ‘Keraleeyam’ but against the government. Every year ‘Keraleeyam’ will be conducted. Some people tried research work and criticised us for conducting the festival for just one week. The massive participation from the people served them good.” CM said.

The chief minister downplayed all negative criticism and reassured about conducting the event on a yearly basis.