Velikkakathu Sankaran Achuthanandan, known across Kerala and India as V. S. Achuthanandan, was more than a politician—he was a symbol of integrity, resistance, and people-first governance. From a humble childhood in a coastal village to becoming one of the most respected leaders in Indian politics, his journey embodies perseverance, ideology, and public service.
This biography covers his life in detail—from his early days, entry into politics, chief ministership, rivalries, and personal values to his final years. It reflects the evolution of Kerala’s political landscape and honors the legacy of a centenarian statesman.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Born on October 20, 1923, in Punnapra village of Alappuzha (then part of the princely state of Travancore), Achuthanandan came from a poor Ezhava family. His father, Sankaran, was a tailor, and his mother, Accamma, a homemaker. Tragedy struck early: both parents passed away when he was just a child.
Unable to continue formal schooling, he worked in a coir factory and as a tailor’s apprentice. Despite these hardships, his desire to learn never faded. He educated himself through newspapers and books borrowed from friends and libraries.
Rise in Political Consciousness
Achuthanandan joined the Indian National Congress during his youth but soon shifted to the Communist Party of India (CPI) in 1940 after being drawn to Marxist ideology. The turning point came during the Punnapra-Vayalar uprising in 1946, when workers and peasants rebelled against the monarchy of Travancore. He was arrested, beaten, and jailed—but it only solidified his belief in people’s struggles.
Formation of CPI(M) and Party Leadership
After the CPI split in 1964, Achuthanandan was one of the founding leaders of the Communist Party of India (Marxist). Over the years, he took on several key roles:
- State Secretary of CPI(M) Kerala
- Member of the CPI(M) Politburo
- Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Assembly
He became known for his incorruptible image and unwavering dedication to workers, farmers, and the marginalized.
Chief Minister of Kerala (2006–2011)
In 2006, at the age of 82, V. S. Achuthanandan led the Left Democratic Front (LDF) to victory and became Chief Minister of Kerala. His five-year term was widely seen as one of the most people-centric administrations in Kerala’s recent history.
Key Initiatives and Reforms
- Anti-encroachment drive in Munnar: VS took action against illegal land encroachment by resort and business lobbies.
- SmartCity Kochi & Technopark Expansion: Encouraged IT growth and job creation, proving he wasn’t anti-development.
- Welfare measures: His government prioritized senior citizen welfare, pension reforms, and housing for the poor.
- Anti-corruption stance: His image as a clean politician was reinforced through various public integrity campaigns.
His leadership was widely covered in regional media like Asianet News Live and Mathrubhumi News Live, making him a household name among youth and the elderly alike.
VS vs. Pinarayi: A Political Tug-of-War
One of the most talked-about aspects of Achuthanandan’s political career was his strained relationship with fellow CPI(M) leader Pinarayi Vijayan. While both were committed to leftist ideology, their administrative styles and political ethics often clashed.
The most notable disagreement was over the SNC-Lavalin corruption case involving Pinarayi. VS demanded transparency and legal action—this led to his removal from the CPI(M) Politburo in 2009, although his mass appeal remained intact.
Contributions Beyond Government
Even after his tenure as Chief Minister, VS continued to advocate for people’s rights and administrative reforms. He was appointed Chairman of the Administrative Reforms Commission in 2016, a largely symbolic post recognizing his decades-long contribution.
Despite being pushed into the political sidelines, public support never diminished. Queries like “v s achuthanandan latest news” trended online, especially when his statements or reactions to current events surfaced.
Literary and Ideological Influence
Although he never pursued higher education, Achuthanandan was a prolific writer. His books and articles in Malayalam focused on Marxist theory, Kerala’s socio-political development, and governance models.
Notable works include:
- Samaram Samadhanam (Struggle and Peace)
- Ente China Yathra (My China Journey)
- Ashayapathayile Njan (On the Path of Ideology)
His writings were used in colleges and featured frequently in Malayalam news discussions and civil service study material.
Public Image and Digital Era Presence
Even in the internet era, V. S. Achuthanandan managed to capture the public imagination. Though not active on social media himself, videos of his speeches, debates, and satirical comebacks went viral.
Memes, reels, and YouTube videos made his quotes famous among newer generations, increasing searches like “vs achuthanandan health condition” or “v.s achuthanandan statement today.”
Family and Personal Life
V. S. Achuthanandan married Vasumathi in the 1950s. She remained a quiet pillar of support until her passing in 2014. They had one son, V. A. Arun Kumar, a government official. VS was also a grandfather, though his family largely remained outside the public eye.
Even as Chief Minister, he lived simply—often traveling in public transport and refusing unnecessary privileges. His house in Thiruvananthapuram reflected the spartan lifestyle he preached.
Final Years and Retirement from Politics
Age and illness gradually drew VS away from active politics. In 2020, he made his last public appearances. Yet, every time there was political unrest or a major public issue, his name resurfaced in conversations. Regional channels ran health updates, and the question “is tomorrow a holiday in Kerala?” even trended after his passing.
Death and State Mourning
V. S. Achuthanandan passed away on July 21, 2025, at the age of 101 in Thiruvananthapuram. His death brought Kerala to a standstill. The government declared a state holiday in his honor, and thousands gathered for his funeral procession.
His passing was covered live on Asianet, Mathrubhumi, and every major Malayalam news outlet. The CPI(M) declared a week of mourning. Public tributes poured in from national and global leaders.
Legacy of VS Achuthanandan
V. S. Achuthanandan leaves behind an enduring legacy:
- Land Reforms: As a leader in the 1960s and ’70s, he led the charge for land redistribution.
- Corruption-Free Politics: Known for his integrity, he set a benchmark in governance ethics.
- Environmental Advocacy: Stood against the destruction of Kerala’s hills and forests.
- Digital Relevance: Managed to stay relevant across generations, even during the digital age.
Final Thoughts
VS Achuthanandan’s century-long life was more than political milestones—it was a chronicle of struggle, service, and sacrifice. From the coir fields of Alappuzha to the legislative halls of Thiruvananthapuram, he was a fighter who never compromised on values.
He will remain not only in textbooks but in the hearts of people—forever remembered as the leader who chose truth over convenience.
