i m vijayan

Early trends for the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections show a significant shift, with the Congress-led UDF projected for a commanding victory, leading in over 100 seats. The ruling LDF faces strong anti-incumbency, while the BJP remains a marginal player. This outcome suggests a return to Kerala's traditional pattern of alternating governments.

The makers of director Paul George's pan-Indian Malayalam film 'Kattalan', featuring actor Antony Varghese (Pepe) in the lead, have now revealed the character actor Anson Paul plays in the film, much to the delight of fans and film buffs.

Individuals born on April 21st are entering a Personal Year influenced by Number 8, bringing subtle career shifts and a focus on structured growth, though financial gains may be slow. Relationships will require patience and clearer communication to realign expectations. Health awareness is key, as small habits could impact well-being, while travel becomes more purposeful, offering clarity.

Mamata, Vijayan, Himanta and Stalin are all facing anti-incumbency pressures. And yet they may return to power on May 4 because they appear to be better placed than their rivals. But is too much stability perhaps not productive for a dynamic democracy?

Opposition leader V.D. Satheesan asserts the UDF is now a broad platform, not just a party confederation. He outlines plans to strengthen Congress by focusing on winnability and addressing CPM's internal dissent. Satheesan predicts a significant UDF victory, highlighting a shift in social group support and criticizing the ruling party's governance and economic policies.

G Sudhakaran has criticized the CPM, calling it a party of "political criminals" rather than laborers and warning it faces its last election if it doesn't reform. He accused Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of ruling the party and alleged a CPM-BJP alliance in Chengannur, claiming Saji Cherian wins with RSS/BJP votes.

BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar dismisses 'deal' allegations as panic from rival fronts, highlighting the party's development agenda. He asserts Kerala's traditional two-front system is collapsing, predicting a merger of UDF and LDF. Chandrasekhar emphasizes BJP's focus on progress and outreach to all communities, aiming for a significant electoral victory.

Taliparamba, a CPM stronghold for decades, faces an unusual political challenge. Internal dissent has emerged as a former CPM leader contests as an independent, backed by the opposition. This move aims to split traditional CPM votes. While the CPM remains confident in its cadre loyalty, voter reactions suggest an unpredictable situation.

Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala stated that the party leadership will decide on the chief ministerial face for the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections, emphasizing his long-standing relationship with the Nehru family. He expressed confidence in the UDF's victory, highlighting their comprehensive manifesto and criticizing the LDF government's performance over the past decade.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah urged Kerala's Christian community to support the NDA for a prosperous state, highlighting the government's stance against appeasement. He criticized the LDF and UDF for alleged ties with controversial outfits and their silence on the Munambam land dispute, asserting that neither front ensures Kerala's safety.

Rebel candidates, leadership friction and multiple fault lines are emerging across Kerala’s political landscape. Together, they pose a serious test for LDF’s bid for a third straight term

A viral interview reveals how actor Sreenivasan's recommendation landed Mammootty his role in 'Mela,' a pivotal moment where the future superstar received Rs 800, a stark contrast to his previous Rs 50 earnings. This opportunity, though Sreenivasan downplays his influence on Mammootty's stardom, marked a significant step in the actor's remarkable journey.

Kerala's political parties exhibit varied approaches to accommodating defectors. While CPM cautiously offers organizational roles over electoral tickets, UDF and Congress demonstrate a more integrated strategy, fielding newcomers and supporting former Left leaders. This dynamic highlights differing priorities in absorbing leaders from rival camps.

Controversy brews as actor Hareesh Peradi openly critiques Mammootty's latest collaboration with director Khalid Rahman on 'Mattancherry Mafia'. Referencing Rahman’s past issues with the law concerning cannabis, Peradi expressed his concern over how the audience might perceive this partnership. Drawing attention to Mammootty's historical caution regarding political optics, he encouraged a thoughtful examination of this new alliance.