Actors turn up to vote in Kerala, urge public participation
Popular film actors cast their votes, reflecting the enthusiasm of electors in the crucial 2026 Assembly polls on Thursday, where stakes are high for all political fronts in Kerala.
This election has also seen at least eight celebrities, including actors Ramesh Pisharody, Anjali Nair and Major Ravi, contesting in various constituencies.
Minister KB Ganesh Kumar, who has been winning elections from Pathanapuram in Kollam district, is once again contesting from the same constituency.
Actor Mohanlal waited outside Mudavanmughal Government School in Thiruvananthapuram to cast his vote at around 7 am. He was seen interacting with LDF candidate V Sivankutty and UDF candidate KS Sabarinadhan in the Nemom constituency.
“Done my part. Your turn, Keralam, go vote,” he wrote on his social media platform after casting his vote.
Voters gathered in large numbers when star actor Mammootty and his family arrived in Ponnuruni, Kochi, to cast their votes.
“It is a once-in-five-year opportunity, and people should come forward to cast their votes,” he said.
Actor Prithviraj Sukumaran and his wife, Supriya, cast their votes in Thevara, Kochi.
Ahaana Krishnakumar arrived at a polling booth in Thiruvananthapuram with her family.
She is the daughter of actor K Krishnakumar, who had earlier contested elections for the NDA.
“I think people, including the younger generation, are well aware of their voting rights. Thanks to social media, everyone has more information, and it is easier for them to make a decision and cast their votes,” she said.
Actor Asif Ali cast his vote in Thodupuzha and said he does not disclose which candidate he supports.
He said the Government should ensure freedom of expression.
“I always say that the Government should be accessible and interactive,” he said.
He added that he was initially willing to campaign for his friends but later realised that they were associated with different political fronts.
Referring to Kerala Congress leader J Joseph not contesting and giving the seat to his son Apu John Joseph, Ali said it reflects the maturity of the veteran leader.
“Making way for the younger generation should be followed by all senior leaders,” he said.
Actor and MLA Mukesh said elections are more exciting and impactful than a suspense thriller.
“We get to see the hard work that lasts over a month and then wait for the results for another month,” he said.
Mukesh, who was denied a seat from Kollam by the LDF, expressed confidence that the front would retain power and win the Kollam seat.
Actor Jagadish, who had earlier contested elections for the Congress, said he is unsure whether he can handle politics as he does acting.
On the poll scenario, he said two fronts are competing for power, while another is trying to establish its presence in the State.
He said the votes secured by third candidates in each constituency would be crucial, making it difficult to make predictions.
“Anti-incumbency is a factor every Government faces. The first Pinarayi Vijayan Government also faced it. However, its handling of COVID-19 and floods earned public confidence, leading to its continuation. No such situation exists now,” he said.
Actor Kunchacko Boban, who cast his vote in Alappuzha, said good governance should prevail regardless of who forms the Government.
“Let it be the Left or the Right. Like everyone, I also wish for a Government that is straight,” he said.
Actor Tovino Thomas reached the polling station with his family and said he has never missed casting his vote.
“It is our right and responsibility to protect democracy,” he said.
He added that actors entering politics give up their film careers and are sincere in their efforts, though winning elections and growing in politics are different challenges.
