Kochi: Highlighting his reputation for integrity, Malayalam cinema legend Mohanlal has hailed newly appointed Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan, describing "honesty and transparency" as the politician's defining traits.

Speaking at a grand reception for the CM in Paravur, the actor noted that the overwhelming public demand to elevate Satheesan to the state’s top political office was a historic anomaly.

"The experience of an entire region clamouring in unison to make someone the Chief Minister is quite rare in the history of Kerala," Mohanlal told the gathering, referencing the intense internal deliberations within the Congress party prior to Satheesan's appointment.

'Double celebration'

Beginning his address by describing the Chief Minister as a close personal friend, the veteran actor spoke of the immense public expectation riding on the new administration following the United Democratic Front's (UDF) recent electoral victory.

"Everyone is experiencing a moment of double celebration," Mohanlal said. "An invaluable moment when a beloved son of this region has become the leader of the state. It is with such immense hope that Kerala has installed him as the Chief Minister."

Invoking the legacy of India’s first prime minister, he added: "As a Nehruvian socialist, VD Satheesan cannot help but be a great dreamer, much like Jawaharlal Nehru himself. I hope that through his dreams, Kerala will grow with the beauty of a rainbow."

An 'iron fist' against drugs

The actor, widely known for his prolific film career, also used the platform to address pressing social issues in the state, drawing upon one of his most famous cinematic catchphrases to deliver a stern warning on substance abuse.

"‘Narcotics is a dirty business,’ a character of mine once said. Drugs are currently flooding Kerala. If the government stands firm at the forefront with an iron fist and strong determination, we can wipe out this menace."

National interest over party politics

Steering clear of overt political alignment, Mohanlal emphasised that his appearance was driven by civic duty rather than partisan bias, reinforcing that an elected government serves the entire populace.

"I am someone who maintains friendships with people across all political parties. It is a sense of nationhood, not party politics, that always guides me," the actor concluded, pledging his full support as both an artist and a citizen to the new government's vision for state development.