THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In 2007, at the senile age of 84, VS Achuthanandan climbed the holy Sabarimala hills. Much to everyone’s surprise, VS walked all the way along the cluttered uphill path towards the holy shrine in three hours. Considering the age of the leader and the chances of fatigue, the officials had set up dolly services, but Achuthanandan preferred to walk. He was brimming with energy even after reaching Sannidhanam, while his fellow ministers backed out exhausted.

The strength of mind, moderation in food and regular exercise were behind the resoluteness and control VS commanded over his physique. Until he got bedridden by age-related ailments, VS staunchly practised this regime. After the age of 40, he gave up tea, coffee, milk, and even dropped the habit of smoking the trademark beedi, a thin hand-rolled cigarette.

As he got older, his routine became stricter. Breakfast would be limited to two dosas or idlis. A little rice would make lunch grandeur. Vegetarian dishes were mostly preferred. Only when he visited Alappuzha, VS demanded fish curry along with his meals. Fruits dominated the culinary specials at Dinner.

Until the age of 82, VS Achuthanandan religiously practised yoga. While staying at Cliff House as the Chief Minister or when at Cantonment House as the Leader of the Opposition, VS Achuthanandan never missed his morning walks. During the rainy season, he would take his walk to the veranda of the legislative assembly building. Another of his specialities was to bask in the mild sun for 15 minutes in the morning and a bath after anointing his body with herbal oils.