On March 7, Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, met with tea plantation workers in Kuttikkanam, a town in Kerala’s Idukki district. This interaction formed part of his visit to the region ahead of the upcoming 2026 Kerala Legislative Assembly elections. As part of his itinerary, Gandhi also paid a visit to the samadhi of Sree Narayana Guru located at the Sivagiri Mutt in Varkala.

Commemoration of Sree Narayana Guru

During his time at Sivagiri Mutt, Gandhi participated in the centennial commemorative event marking the historic meeting between Mahatma Gandhi and Sree Narayana Guru. Reflecting on the impact of Sree Narayana Guru, a prominent social reformer, he acknowledged that despite lacking material wealth and physical prowess, the Guru was a notably influential figure in Kerala. Gandhi emphasized that while the British wielded power through force, figures like Narayan Guru and Gandhi himself relied on the strength of truth. He remarked on the ongoing relevance of such leaders, indicating their values against violence persist today.

Critique of Media and Cinema

Gandhi also voiced concerns regarding the role of cinema and media in political discourse, particularly alluding to the ongoing debate about “The Kerala Story 2.” He argued that entertainment platforms should foster unity rather than division among communities. In a social media post, he labeled the real essence of Kerala as rooted in compassion and solidarity, stating that film and media should serve to bring people closer together instead of being utilized to create social rifts. During a conversation with students from Marian College in Idukki, he was asked whether cinema was increasingly being co-opted for political messaging, referencing controversies surrounding films such as ‘The Kerala Story.’

Public Perception of Kerala

In response to the inquiry about the film, Gandhi pointed out that local audiences seem to resonate with the truths of Kerala’s social and cultural framework. He mentioned observations about ‘The Kerala Story’, noting that the film’s screenings appear to attract minimal attendance, suggesting that the broader public possesses a robust understanding of Kerala’s traditions and values. Gandhi expressed insights he gained during his tenure as the Member of Parliament from Wayanad, underlining the lessons learned from the state’s populace.

Political Landscape Ahead of Elections

As the state gears up for Assembly elections later this year, the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) aims to challenge the incumbent Left Democratic Alliance (LDF), led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Gandhi’s activities in Idukki and his engagements with the local community are seen as integral to strengthening the party’s positioning ahead of the elections.

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