Kochi (Keralam) [India], August 24 (ANI): Malayalam actor Kunchacko Boban on Monday invoked the legacy of King Mahabali while highlighting the importance of equality and good governance, and praised Keralam's growing prominence on the global tourism map.
Speaking at an event, Boban said Mahabali's reign was remembered for equality and that Chief Ministers should be compared with the legendary ruler whenever governments change.
"When Mahabali ruled Keralam, there was equality. He was a ruler who treated everyone equally. Whenever governments change, it is the duty of Chief Ministers to be compared with Mahabali," he said.
"A good ruler will be remembered beyond generations. Mahabali is greatest example of that," the actor added.
Onam, one of Keralam's major festivals, is associated with the annual homecoming of King Mahabali. According to Hindu mythology, Mahabali was a benevolent and popular ruler whose reign was marked by prosperity and equality. He was sent to the underworld by Lord Vishnu in his Vamana avatar after offering all his land to the deity. Mahabali was later granted a boon allowing him to visit his kingdom once every year, forming a central part of the Onam tradition.
Boban also highlighted Keralam's position as a leading tourism destination and spoke about his connection with Alappuzha, his birthplace.
"Keralam is one of the leading regions on the tourism map. My birthplace is in Alappuzha district, which is known as the Venice of the East," he said.
Recalling his visit to Venice in Italy, the actor said he felt proud of Alappuzha's natural beauty.
"I have visited Venice. Looking at the sights I saw there, I am proud that Keralam has reached a stage where Venice could be called the Alappuzha of the West," Boban said.
The actor also flagged the possibility of increased drug use alongside the growth of tourism and stressed the importance of the Home Department's anti-drug drive, Operation Toofan.
"Wherever there is tourism, there is a possibility of increased drug use. That is where the importance of the Home Department's anti-drug drive, Operation Toofan project comes in," he said.
Kunchacko Boban is known for playing a brief role in Harikrishnans (1998), starring Mohanlal and Mammootty. He also worked in Nakshatratharattu (1998), Niram (1999) and Prem Poojari (1999). (ANI)
"Good ruler remembered beyond generations": Actor Kunchacko Boban emphasises good governance, highlights Keralam's tourism potential
