Kerala CM Says BJP Threatens State's Culture, Warns Against Supporting Party

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has warned that even “one vote” for the BJP could damage the state’s culture and traditions. He accused the party of trying to alter Kerala’s identity, including its festivals like Onam.

Speaking at a seminar on secularism and federalism in Ernakulam, Vijayan referred to Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s recent visit to the city. During that visit, Shah said the BJP’s goal is to secure 25 percent of the vote in the upcoming local body polls and eventually form a majority in the Kerala assembly. Vijayan said this shows the party has set its sights firmly on the state.

The Chief Minister also recalled an incident from this year’s Onam celebrations. He said a visitor showed him a message that portrayed Lord Maha Vishnu with Vamanan, and Mahabali at Vamanan’s feet. Vijayan argued that such portrayals change the very meaning of Onam, a festival in which people believe King Mahabali visits his subjects.

“They want to change even our festivals,” Vijayan said, adding that the BJP is trying to reshape Kerala’s culture by reviving older narratives. He urged people to see the long-term consequences of supporting the party.

“It is not just about politicians. Every single person in Kerala should understand what will happen if they get votes,” he said.

Vijayan’s comments come at a time when the BJP is working to expand its influence in the state, where it has so far struggled to gain a strong foothold. His warning was aimed at rallying people to resist the party’s attempts to reshape Kerala’s traditions and political landscape.