Kochi, Kerala – In the small village of Ashamannoor, a remarkable sight has caught the attention of locals ahead of the December local body polls. Amidst the whirlwind of election campaigns, where loud rallies and colorful posters dominate the streets, a 90-year-old man quietly walks from house to house, clutching a black bag in his hand, seeking votes for himself. This spirited nonagenarian is Narayanan Nair, an independent candidate contesting from the second ward of Ashamannoor village panchayat.

A retired government employee, Nair is venturing into electoral politics for the very first time. While most candidates are surrounded by party activists, volunteers, and well-planned publicity campaigns, Nair’s approach is refreshingly personal and direct. Dressed in a simple white shirt and dhoti, he walks at a slow pace, stopping at individual homes to request support from villagers, often speaking in a trembling but earnest voice.

A Vision Beyond Age

When asked what inspired him to contest an election at such an advanced age, Nair responded with simplicity and conviction: “Age is not a barrier for anything.” He explained that his candidacy is motivated by a clear vision for the development of his ward.

“I want to do many things for my ward. It will be possible only if I become an elected member,” he told the media.

Nair’s campaign is built on personal interaction rather than mass outreach or flashy publicity. For instance, upon spotting a woman standing in front of her house, he approached her directly and requested, “Please vote for me. My symbol is Kettle.” The woman, smiling warmly, replied, “We have known you all these years. We will definitely vote for you.” Other villagers responded similarly, reflecting the respect and affection the community has for him. Even youngsters standing by the roadside were impressed by his determination and appreciated his efforts. “This is the beauty of our democracy,” one of them remarked.

A Personal Touch to Campaigning

Unlike many candidates who rely heavily on posters, banners, or social media to reach voters, Nair prefers a hands-on approach. Asked why he does not use flex boards or posters, he explained his philosophy:

“If I erect a huge flex board by the roadside inviting people to the marriage of my son or daughter, no one is going to come. They will come only if I invite them directly by going to their houses. In the same way, I believe in meeting people directly and seeking their votes.”

His commitment to grassroots engagement underscores the personal nature of his campaign and resonates with voters tired of traditional political theatrics. It is clear that for Nair, the act of going door-to-door is not just a campaign tactic—it is a statement of sincerity and service.

Community Support and Recognition

Narayanan Nair’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. Residents of Ashamannoor have expressed admiration for his dedication and perseverance. Many acknowledge that his age does not deter him from actively participating in the democratic process, viewing him as a symbol of determination and civic responsibility.

His campaign, although modest, has generated goodwill across the village. “We have known him for decades, and his intentions are genuine. He deserves our support,” said one villager. Such responses highlight the trust and respect Nair commands among his constituents, which could play a decisive role in the election.

Elections Amidst Tradition and Modernity

Kerala’s two-phased local body polls are scheduled for December 9 and 11, with results expected on December 13. While the state’s elections often feature highly organized campaigns backed by political parties and extensive media coverage, candidates like Nair remind voters of the power of individual dedication and community connection. His participation challenges conventional notions of campaigning, emphasizing that personal engagement can be just as effective, if not more so, than elaborate election machinery.

The story of Narayanan Nair stands out in the electoral landscape because it bridges generations. While the majority of candidates might use digital tools, posters, and public rallies to reach out to voters, Nair relies on human interaction, empathy, and trust. His campaign reflects the enduring relevance of direct communication and genuine concern for community welfare in a rapidly changing political environment.

A Testament to Democracy

Nair’s candidacy is a testament to the inclusive nature of Indian democracy, where age and experience coexist with youthful energy and political ambition. By choosing to enter the fray at 90, he demonstrates that participation in public service and civic life has no age limit. His campaign embodies the democratic spirit, showing that every citizen, regardless of age, has the right to seek representation and contribute to local governance.

As the local body elections approach, residents of Ashamannoor watch with curiosity and respect. Nair’s journey serves as an inspiring reminder that democracy is not merely about political machinery, slogans, or party affiliations—it is about people, ideas, and the determination to make a difference in one’s community.

For Narayanan Nair, age is truly just a number. His dedication to serving his ward, his personal engagement with voters, and his unwavering spirit exemplify the essence of grassroots democracy. Whether he wins or loses, his campaign has already left a lasting impression on the people of Ashamannoor, showing that commitment and sincerity can transcend age and conventional political norms.

In a world where politics often prioritizes speed, spectacle, and social media presence, Narayanan Nair’s door-to-door campaign reminds us that sometimes, the simplest and most human approach can resonate the deepest. As Kerala prepares to cast its votes in the local body elections, the story of this 90-year-old candidate serves as a poignant example of courage, perseverance, and the enduring value of citizen participation in the democratic process.