1 week Ago
KOLLAM: Back then, M.A. Baby was in the 8th grade.
It was a time when schools and colleges were dominated by the Kerala Students Union (KSU). The situation at Prakkulam N.S.
S. High School, where Baby studied, was no different. The year was 1967.
V.K. Vikraman, a student from the nearby Neeravil School, was in charge of the KSF (Kerala Students Federation) unit at Prakkulam.
Vikraman was determined to win at least one classroom in that school for KSF. But at the time, they struggled to even find candidates to stand for election. Then, someone suggested a solution: “There’s a boy from the house next to the school — Alexander Sir’s son.
His name is Baby. He’s handsome, speaks well, and regularly wins prizes in debate competitions.” That’s how Baby became the KSF candidate from the 8th grade.
He didn’t win the election, but he made an impression — he became known as a fiery young leader. His influence only grew when he joined S.N.
College in Kollam for pre-degree studies. Meanwhile, V.K.
Vikraman turned toward the field of labour unions. Now in his 80s, Vikraman is overjoyed to see Baby rise to the top ranks of the CPI(M). He always believed Baby would become General Secretary one day.
Every time Baby visits Prakkulam, he stops by Vikraman’s home. Last Christmas, he came with his wife Betty, bringing a cake. Just ten days ago, he visited again — a heartfelt moment of respect for his old mentor.
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