Former Kerala CM AK Antony turns 84

Thiruvananthapuram: Senior Congress leader and former Kerala Chief Minister A.K. Antony, known for his distinguished political career, is celebrating his 84th birthday on Saturday. As in previous years, there will be no formal celebrations. His birthday coincides with the Congress party's foundation day, highlighting his longstanding association with the party. 

Born on December 28, 1940, in Cherthala, A.K. Antony is the son of Arackaparambil Kurien Pillai and Aleykutty Kurian. He began his political journey through the Kerala Students Union (KSU) during the 'Oru Ana Samaram (Single Penny Strike)' movement in the late 1950s.

Antony began his early education at Holy Family Boys High School (lower primary) and Government Boys High School (upper primary) in Cherthala. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from Maharaja's College, Ernakulam, followed by a Bachelor of Law from Government Law College, Ernakulam.

Antony made history in 1977 when, at just 37, he became the youngest Chief Minister of Kerala, a record that remains unbroken. He later served as Chief Minister again in 1995 and 2001. Additionally, Antony held the position of Union Minister for nearly a decade across three terms.

He continues to serve as a senior member of the All India Congress Committee (AICC). After nearly two decades of active involvement in national politics in Delhi, Antony stepped away from political duties due to age-related factors. In April 2022, the veteran leader retired to his home in Thiruvananthapuram.