Velikkakathu Sankaran Achuthanandan, popularly known as V. S. Achuthanandan, was one of the tallest leaders of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and a respected former Chief Minister of Kerala. Known as the “Fidel Castro of Kerala”, he remained a symbol of honesty, simplicity, and dedication throughout his political journey.
Quick Info
- Full Name: Velikkakathu Sankaran Achuthanandan
- Date of Birth: 20 October 1923
- Date of Death: 21 July 2025
- Age: 101 years
- Birthplace: Alappuzha, Kingdom of Travancore (now Kerala, India)
- Profession: Politician
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Libra
- Nickname: Fidel Castro of Kerala
Table of Contents
Physical Stats
- Height: 5’5” (165 cm)
- Weight: 65 kg (143 lbs)
- Eye Color: Black
- Hair Color: Grey
Personal Life
- Hometown: Alappuzha, Kerala
- Food Habit: Non-vegetarian
- Marital Status: Widower
- Spouse: K. Vasumathy
- Children: Son – V. A. Arun Kumar, Daughter – V. V. Asha
- Parents: Father – Sankaran, Mother – Accamma
Early Life & Struggles
V. S. Achuthanandan’s childhood was marked by hardship. He lost both parents at a young age and discontinued studies after 7th standard. He began working in his brother’s tailoring shop and later in a coir factory, where he became active in labor struggles.
His participation in the Punnapra-Vayalar uprising against oppressive rulers led to his imprisonment and torture, leaving permanent bayonet wounds on his body. These early struggles shaped his future as a committed revolutionary.
Political Journey
- 1938: Joined the State Congress
- 1940: Became member of the Communist Party of India
- 1952: Division Secretary, CPI (Alappuzha)
- 1957: State Secretariat Member, CPI Kerala
- 1964: Central Committee Member, CPI(M)
- 1967: Elected MLA from Ambalappuzha
- 1980: State Secretary of CPI(M) Kerala
- 1985: Inducted into Politburo of CPI(M)
- 1992: Leader of Opposition in Kerala Assembly
- 2006: Sworn in as Chief Minister of Kerala
- 2016: Appointed Chairman of Kerala Administrative Reforms Commission
Achievements as Chief Minister
- Launched anti-land grab campaigns to protect public land.
- Took legal actions against illegal encroachments.
- Promoted the IT sector, enabling Kerala to surpass the national average in IT exports.
- Supported farmers and fought against policies harmful to agriculture.
- Introduced reforms in education and health sectors.
Awards & Recognitions
- 2006: Manorama News Maker of the Year Award
- 2013: Pravasi Express Lifetime Achievement Award
- 2013: Velu Thampi Memorial National Award
- 2013: NC Sekhar Award
- 2024: First Kerala Award by Kerala State Karshaka Thozhilali Union
Some Lesser-Known Facts
- Nicknamed the Fidel Castro of Kerala for his bold leadership.
- Undertook a solo pilgrimage to Sabarimala at an advanced age.
- Played a vital role in strengthening workers’ rights in coir factories.
- Known for his simple lifestyle and strong anti-corruption stand.
- Continued to remain active in politics even in his 90s.
Legacy
V. S. Achuthanandan’s life is a remarkable story of resilience, courage, and commitment to the people. From a poor tailor’s shop boy to the Chief Minister of Kerala, his journey remains an inspiration. He will be remembered as one of the greatest leaders in Kerala’s political history.
FAQs about V. S. Achuthanandan
Q1. Who was V. S. Achuthanandan?
Ans: He was a veteran Communist leader, former Chief Minister of Kerala, and a respected political figure in India.
Q2. When was V. S. Achuthanandan born and when did he die?
Ans: He was born on 20 October 1923 and passed away on 21 July 2025 at the age of 101.
Q3. Why is V. S. Achuthanandan called the Fidel Castro of Kerala?
Ans: Due to his revolutionary spirit, mass leadership, and simple lifestyle, he earned the nickname “Fidel Castro of Kerala”.
Q4. What were his major contributions as Chief Minister?
Ans: He initiated anti-land grab drives, supported IT sector growth, protected farmers, and introduced governance reforms.
Q5. Which awards did V. S. Achuthanandan receive?
Ans: He won several awards including the Manorama News Maker of the Year (2006), Pravasi Express Lifetime Achievement Award (2013), and First Kerala Award (2024).
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