Kochi, 24 May (H.S.):

Malayalam Super Star Mohanlal on Sunday said Kerala had elevated V.D. Satheesan to the post of Chief Minister with immense expectations and expressed confidence that the new government has the strength and resolve to tackle major challenges facing the state, including the growing drug menace.

Speaking at a civic reception organised for Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan in Kochi, Mohanlal described the public support behind Satheesan’s rise as a rare political moment in Kerala’s history.

“An entire state collectively demanding that one person become Chief Minister is perhaps a rare experience in Kerala’s political history,” Mohanlal said. Reflecting on the reasons behind Satheesan’s popularity, he pointed to qualities such as honesty and transparency, saying these characteristics had become evident in the leader’s public life.

The actor said he hoped Satheesan would continue to preserve these values throughout his political journey. He also described the Chief Minister as fortunate to lead one of the most beautiful regions in the world, blessed with rivers, forests, mountains, seas, culture and rich traditions.

Mohanlal said his extensive travels across Kerala for professional commitments had often made him question whether the state had effectively utilised its vast natural and cultural resources. According to him, Kerala possesses enormous untapped potential in areas such as history, art, culture, climate and commerce.

He noted that these opportunities also present challenges for any government and said Satheesan, whom he described as a widely read and thoughtful leader with Nehruvian socialist ideals, would have a broader understanding of these issues.

The actor also raised concerns about sanitation, road safety and the increasing social impact of drug abuse. He said road accidents in Kerala had become a serious issue and recalled reading that more people die on the state’s roads in a year than in some wars, with many others left seriously injured and permanently affected.

Mohanlal particularly highlighted the threat of narcotics, saying drugs had reached even school surroundings and posed a danger to younger generations.

“If the government moves forward with determination and a firm hand, we can wipe out this menace,” he said, adding that he believed the present administration had the capability to achieve it.

He concluded by assuring his support to the government, stating that as an artist and citizen, he would extend all possible assistance in Kerala’s progress and development.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman