Vice President C P Radhakrishnan addressed a gathering at the Uthrattathi boat race on the banks of the Pamba River in Aranmula, Pathanamthitta, on August 30. Speaking as part of the Onam celebrations, he emphasized that tradition and modernity are not opposing forces and can coexist, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s slogan “Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi.” He highlighted how festivals such as Onam in Kerala, the Rath Yatra in Puri and the Kanwar Yatra in northern India illustrate the power of cultural heritage to unite diverse communities.
Radhakrishnan praised Aranmula’s cultural and tourism significance, noting its ancient Sri Parthasarathy Temple, believed to be about 1,800 years old, and the renowned Aranmula Kannadi, a metal mirror that carries a GI tag. He recalled gifting these mirrors to guests during the previous year’s Christmas celebrations at the vice‑president’s residence, underscoring the importance of preserving traditional arts and crafts for future generations.
The vice‑president also reflected on the spiritual relevance of the Pamba River, which serves as a key route for pilgrims to Sabarimala. He recounted his own experience of being announced as a Lok Sabha candidate while at the Sabarimala sanctum, describing the river as a symbol of faith, purification and inner pilgrimage. The event featured more than 100 oarsmen rowing the ornately decorated Palliyodams, maintaining a rhythm that he said embodies harmony and togetherness.
The ceremony was attended by Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala, Higher Education Minister Roji M John, MP Anto Antony and Aranmula MLA Abin Varkey.
