Wayanad, 07 March (H.S.): Malayalam cinema icon Mammootty made an unannounced visit to the township built by the Kerala government for disaster-affected families in Wayanad, interacting with residents and officials and expressing admiration for the collective effort behind the rehabilitation project.

The veteran actor arrived at the township without prior announcement, catching residents and local authorities by surprise.

During the visit, Mammootty walked through several of the newly constructed houses and spoke directly with families who had been rehabilitated there after losing their homes in the disaster.

He also interacted with students and enquired about the facilities provided in the township, seeking details from officials about the progress of the rehabilitation project and the living conditions of the relocated families.

Residents said the actor spent time observing the houses that had already been completed and briefly spoke to household members about their experiences since moving into the new settlement. His presence quickly drew crowds of curious onlookers and fans, prompting him to leave the area after completing the brief visit.

Speaking after inspecting a few houses, Mammootty said the township stood as a powerful example of the collective spirit of the people of Kerala. According to him, the project reflected how an entire community had come together to support people who had lost everything in a disaster.

“Food, clothing and shelter are the most basic needs of human beings. This township has been created through the contributions of people who wanted to help those who became homeless after a tragedy,” he said.

The actor noted that the funds used for such rehabilitation projects ultimately come from the people themselves. “The money that the government spends is collected from the people of Kerala. What we see here is the social capital of Kerala — the compassion and collective responsibility of its people,” he said.

Describing the township as a symbol of solidarity, Mammootty said the project reflects the generosity and empathy of society when it responds to the suffering of others.

Officials said the visit was completely unexpected and lasted only a short while, but it brought excitement among residents who were happy to meet the actor and share their stories with him.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman