Mortal remains consigned to flames; Kerala CPI(M) leader Kodiyeri Balakrishnan is now a fond memory

A Payyambalam cremation

The pyre was prepared between the spots where former chief minister and CPI(M) stalwart EK Nayanar and former state secretary Chadayan Govindan were cremated.

Payyambalam beach is a preferred cremation spot for the top leaders of Kerala, irrespective of their political affiliations. The funeral was held with state honours, including the customary gun salute by the police.

Balakrishnan breathed his last on Saturday, 1 October, at a Chennai hospital following acute cancer. He was 68.

Before the cremation, the mortal remains were kept for public viewing at Azhikodan Mandiram, the Kannur district committee office of CPI(M).

Kerala Governor Arif Muhammad Khan and Opposition Leader V D Satheesan were among those who paid last respects to Balakrishnan at the office.

Chief Minister Vijayan stopped his speech midway as he was unable to contain his emotions during the condolence meeting held after the cremation.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechuri carry the mortal remains of Kodiyeri Balakrishnan to Payaymbalam beach in Kannur for cremation. (Supplied)

Vijayan turned highly emotional while recalling his close association with Balakrishnan from the days of their student political activism.

Leaders, including Yechury, recalled how significant were Balakrishnan’s contributions in maintaining inner-party unity and keeping it a formidable force in the state.

Before being taken to Kannur, the body was kept for public viewing at Balakrishnan’s native Thalassery. There also, thousands thronged to get a glimpse of the departed leader.

Balakrishnan is survived by his wife SR Vinodini and two sons, Benoy and Bineesh.