Thiruvananthapuram, April 4 – It was all about color, culture, and crowds as Prime Minister Narendra Modi traversed the heart of Thiruvananthapuram in a high-energy roadshow on Saturday evening, transforming the capital's streets into a vibrant political carnival.
Arriving at the city airport by helicopter after a rally in Tiruvalla, Prime Minister Modi's convoy proceeded towards Killipalam, near the bustling Chalai Market, where the roadshow formally began.
However, long before Prime Minister Modi reached the starting point, thousands had lined both sides of the route, patiently waiting for a glimpse, turning the entire stretch into a sea of expectant faces.
From Killipalam, the roadshow covered approximately 1.5 kilometers to Nemom, the BJP's sole winning seat in the 140-member Kerala Assembly and a key battleground this time.
The choice of Nemom was strategic, as it was here that veteran leader O. Rajagopal made history in 2016, before the party lost the seat to V. Sivankutty in 2021.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, BJP workers staged colorful displays at multiple points along the route, showcasing Kerala's rich cultural tapestry through traditional dances and art forms.
The visual spectacle, combined with rhythmic drumbeats and cheering crowds, lent the event a celebratory, almost procession-like feel.
At the starting point, Prime Minister Modi stepped into an open jeep, greeted by a roaring reception.
Sharing the stage with him were key BJP candidates from the capital district, including Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Sreelekha, former Union Minister V. Muraleedharan, and Karamana Jayan.
The roadshow also reflected the BJP's growing ambitions in Kerala.
Having finished second in nine seats in 2021 and recently capturing the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, the party is aiming to expand beyond Nemom.
Saturday's turnout, party leaders said, was a sign that the political winds in the state may be shifting.
Kerala goes to the polls on April 9 to elect 140 new legislators.