Thiruvananthapuram: In a notable shift from traditional attire, the younger leaders of the Kerala Congress, including the KPCC Political Affairs Committee member MLA K S Sabarinadhan, are opting for T-shirts and jeans over Khadi clothing. This transition has sparked an internal debate within the party about political symbolism and modern identity.
The trend towards casual wear is not limited to Kerala; it extends to Congress leaders at the national level, with MP Shashi Tharoor, and LOP Rahul Gandhi frequently seen in T-shirts and this tendency is particularly conspicuous among younger politicians such as Hibi Eden, Shafi Parambil, Rahul Mamkootathil, Mathew Kuzhalnadan, V T Balram, and K S Sabarinadhan.
The shift in attire has drawn attention from party veteran Ajay Tharayil who has voiced his concern over the potential loss of political symbolism associated with Khadi clothing, a fabric deeply rooted in India’s freedom struggle and a symbol of simplicity for many Congress leaders. However, the younger generation seems to view this transition as an embrace of modernity rather than a departure from tradition.
The debate continues as the Kerala Congress seeks to balance its respect for historical symbols with the need to appeal to the youth and the changing times. The party’s leadership is encouraging open discussions on this topic, aiming to find a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity that resonates with the electorate in today’s dynamic political landscape.
