Kerala's VS Achuthanandan never had things easy — that's what made him great

VS Achuthanandan, who died on Monday, never had things easy. And he never believed in getting anything on a platter.

He became the Chief Minister of Kerala in his 80’s when politicians in India — and elsewhere in the world — would have been thinking of quiet retirement and beyond.

But the way he immersed himself in the hearts and minds of most Keralities will ensure his place in history.

Achuthanandan was not just any other politician — even if he hadn’t been the chief minister for a day, he would still be the most effective Leader of the Opposition Kerala has ever seen.

Not just once, but twice.

After that five-year stint, he could have created history by returning to power in 2011, but missed out by a handful of seats. And there are many who still believe that Comrade VS could have won if not for conflicts within the party he helped found — the Communist Party of India (Marxist).

Even then, what the narrow loss showed was that Keralities loved and respected Achuthandan for what he was — a genuine man of the masses.  A politician who never went out of his way to be liked — and yet, Keralities took him into their hearts.

Yes, there are people who never looked upon him kindly, and created life-long enmities. (Many Keralities still haven't forgotten — or forgiven — the harsh words former MLA and youth leader M. Swaraj delivered in a speech at the CPM conference.)

Achuthanandan’s voice would always be the most strident against corruption. And the way he gave his speeches were performance art — high on the decibel, with the sharpest of jabs at any politician he perceived were in it only for themselves.

Achuthanandan, it can safely be said, didn't believe in niceties. He called out people for what they are or were. He didn't expect any sympathies either.

Kerala has lost another leader who had a decisive say in crafting its past — and influencing its present. He will be much missed, just like Oomen Chandy.

Comrade VS' — and Oomen Chandy's — legacies can never be confined to statues or naming a building after them. They don't need that — they live in the hearts and minds of Malayalees. Everywhere.

Because politicians like Comrade VS Achuthanandan don't come once in a generation — but once in 100 years.