Following Suresh Gopi's historic win in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from the Thrissur constituency, singer G Venugopal penned a note lauding the actor-turned-politician for his commitment.

In the note, Venugopal emphasised that whether or not Gopi assumes a ministerial role, his primary concern remains the betterment of the people and the state.

After the election fervour settled, Venugopal reached out to Gopi. Reflecting on their conversation, Venugopal recounted his query to Gopi about the significance of his momentous victory in Kerala politics. "Venu, there is no other thought in my head. If I win, it will be for the good of the people of Kerala. If I lose, it will be good for Radhika (wife) and the children," Gopi responded. 

"I am trying to recall that handsome young man, an aspiring actor, who I met about 38 years ago. I know a Suresh whose eyes used to be filled with tears after hearing harsh words from those he adored. I also know a Suresh who, in later years, would fume with anger after hearing words of abuse and being cheated on. But I have never met a Suresh who is a shrewd careerist. Suresh has never used politically correct words. Those who know and love him do not expect that from him."

"Ten years ago, when Shri Narendra Modi’s messenger met Suresh, I happened to be with him. At that time, Suresh was excited to meet a leader that he adored. When I heard that the BJP's captaincy in Kerala was going to Suresh, I called him, but Suresh said he would not accept it. Later, when the same messenger came with a union ministership on a platter, Suresh said, ‘Let me win an election first, and then we will see."

Is such evasion possible in politics? Will the superiors agree to it? I asked Suresh. "If the people and the party want me, that’s enough. Let the opportunity come. If it doesn't, then that is also okay." 

Many, including myself, believed that Suresh would be ineffective in a cadre-based party like the BJP. Before the 2024 elections, one of the demands that Suresh put before the party was that he wish to set aside two years for films, as that is his source of income to support his family.

The people as well as the party have realised that Suresh has given more than he has received. His attitude towards serving is what sets him apart from others. I hesitantly called Suresh when he was undergoing treatment after exhaustive campaigning. I apologised for not joining, but Suresh said, ‘I told everyone who is close to me not to campaign for me. I am used to attacks on social media, but that is not the case for you. The BJP is viewed as an untouchable party in Kerala. This will change’.

I remind Suresh not to give his all for the party; leave some of him for Radhika, the children, and for us friends as well.