Kerala’s Leader of the Opposition, V.D. Satheesan, is heading to “Vana Vasam,” though not in the political sense many may recall. In a turn of events that blends personal passion with political irony, Satheesan is set to inaugurate a new resort named ‘Vana Vasam’ in Vagamon.
A Play on Political Promises
The event has sparked discussions due to a statement Satheesan made during the Legislative Assembly election campaign. At that time, he had declared that if the UDF did not achieve a “shining victory,” he would hold a final press conference and go into vanavasam (forest dwelling).
Satheesan has noted the irony of the situation, describing the resort’s name as a “joke.” He clarified that the owners had chosen the name ‘Vana Vasam’ before his political statement was ever made.
Beyond the Politics: A Lifelong Trekker
While the resort inauguration is a formal engagement, the setting aligns with Satheesan’s well-documented love for nature. The ‘Vana Vasam’ resort is owned by Ashwin, the nephew of former Forest Minister K.P. Vishwanathan.
Following the inauguration, the opposition leader is expected to engage in trekking. Satheesan has shared that the election period took a physical toll on him, resulting in a weight loss of five to six kilograms, and he views these excursions as a way to recover his strength.
His history of forest exploration is extensive. He has visited numerous wilderness areas, including Silent Valley, Agasthyarkoodam, Muthanga, Thirunelli, Kabini, and the Sathyamangalam forests. He has also explored various parts of the Periyar region.
Personal Ties and Wilderness Habits
Satheesan recently made headlines with a video of a trip to Parunthumpara, shared via an unofficial page with the caption “In the forest, not in vanavasam.” He was accompanied by his wife, Lakshmi Priya, daughter Unnimaya, and childhood friend Ranjith Thampi along with Thampi’s wife, Suma George.
According to Ranjith Thampi, who has trekked with Satheesan for four decades, the leader’s approach to the wild is minimalist. He often prefers staying in huts and is known to forget meals or ignore the need for three square meals a day when immersed in the greenery.
Satheesan’s primary interest in these trips is observing wild animals and discussing the natural landscape. He has previously planned treks to the Periyar Tiger Reserve, suggesting that his engagement with nature will likely continue whenever time permits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the inauguration of the ‘Vana Vasam’ resort considered ironic?
It is ironic because V.D. Satheesan previously stated during election campaigning that he would go into “vanavasam” (forest dwelling) if the UDF failed to achieve a significant victory.
Who is the owner of the ‘Vana Vasam’ resort?
The resort is owned by Ashwin, the son of the sister of former Forest Minister K.P. Vishwanathan.
What is V.D. Satheesan’s history with forest trekking?
He has been trekking since 1984, starting with a trip to Parambikulam. He has visited various forests, including Silent Valley, Kabini, and Sathyamangalam, and prefers staying in huts while observing wild animals.
Does a leader’s personal passion for nature help them connect more effectively with the public?
