Rahul Gandhi interacts with college students in Idukki

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi interacted with students at Marian College, Kuttikkanam, in Idukki on Friday. Mr. Gandhi arrived at the college around 1.30 p.m.. The interaction session began with a Kalaripayattu performance by M. Dinasree, a student at the college. The student invited Mr. Gandhi to participate in the martial arts demonstration, and he unexpectedly joined her along with All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary K.C. Venugopal and Idukki MP Dean Kuriakose. After the student demonstrated several moves, Mr. Gandhi attempted them as well.

Responding to a question regarding Kalaripayattu, Mr. Gandhi said, “Most people think that martial arts are used only for self-defence against an attack. But the reality is that the training and self-defence models of Kalaripayattu help you to discover yourself.”

During the talk, students asked for his perspective on the people of Kerala. Mr Gandhi replied that, having represented the Wayanad constituency for five years, he believes the people of the State lead the way in all sectors, specifically mentioning nurses’ contributions. When asked about his Malayalam proficiency, Mr. Gandhi noted that he typically speaks English and remarked that his sister, Priyanka Gandhi, is more adept at learning multiple languages.

In a light-hearted moment, a student named Gopilal asked Mr. Gandhi if he could call him “Cheta” (elder brother). After asking for the meaning of the word, Mr. Gandhi told the student he could call him anything and that he, in turn, was ready to call the student “Aniya” (younger brother).

During the interactive session, students also raised questions regarding the controversial film The Kerala Story, the conflict in West Asia, and the future of Artificial Intelligence.

Following the session, Mr. Gandhi planted a sapling on the college campus to commemorate his visit. He also held discussions with Mar Jose Pulickal, Bishop of Kanjirappally under Syro Malabar Church and Marian College manager Fr. Boby Alex Mannamplackal. Mr. Gandhi ate lunch with the students and asked for their thoughts regarding International Women’s Day.