Kalpetta: Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was warmly welcomed by thousands, including UDF leaders and supporters, in Kalpetta on Wednesday as she prepares to file her nomination papers for the upcoming Wayanad Lok Sabha bypoll.

Speaking at the event, Priyanka expressed her gratitude, stating, "I have been campaigning for 35 years for various elections, but this is the first time I am campaigning for myself before you. It’s a very different feeling. I am deeply grateful to Mallikarjun Kharge for the privilege of being appointed as the Congress candidate for Wayanad."

She addressed the recent landslide in Wayanad, sharing her deep concern for the community affected by the disaster. 

Priyanka also reflected on her brother Rahul Gandhi's previous success in the constituency, saying, "These values of truth and non-violence inspired my brother to walk 8,000 km across India for love and unity. He could not have done that without your support. You stood by him when the world turned its back, giving him strength and courage to keep fighting. My family will always remain indebted and grateful to you."

She promised to strengthen the bond between the community and her brother, assuring them, "I know he had to leave you, and I will ensure that our connection only deepens. He has shared with me the challenges you face. I want to come to your homes and hear directly from you about your issues and how we can address them."

Priyanka, who arrived in the hill district on Tuesday night along with her mother -- Congress Parliamentary party chairperson Sonia Gandhi -- led the roadshow along with her brother -- Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi -- from the new bus stand at Kalpetta.

Priyanka's husband, Robert Vadra, and one of their children were also seen along with her in the open-roof vehicle along with other senior party and IUML leaders during the roadshow.

Amethi MP Kishori Lal Sharma was also present with them in the vehicle.

As the roadshow moved forward sedately, Priyanka and Rahul waved to the massive crowd and even picked up a small girl -- wearing a headband in support of the UDF -- into the vehicle. The child travelled with them briefly.

The UDF workers and supporters, walking in front, alongside and at the rear of the vehicle, were heard shouting slogans in favour of Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka.

UDF workers and supporters as well as members of the general public of all age groups, who were waiting since early morning, welcomed her carrying placards with Priyanka and Rahul Gandhi's photographs, balloons in the party colours and drum beats.