Artist Harigovindan joins IUML, cites secular values

Kozhikode: Noted Sopana Sangeetham artist Njeralathu Harigovindan joined IUML on Friday, saying that his decision was guided by the party's commitment to secularism and humanism. Addressing the media after taking membership from party state president Panakkad Sadikali Shihab Thangal, Harigovindan said IUML stands out for practising these values and not just professing them.

"Ten years ago, I had said, including on social media, that if I were to associate with a political movement, it would be IUML. At a time when many parties say one thing and do another, IUML stands apart and it is gaining relevance not just in Kerala but across the country. I hope my decision encourages more people, including those from other faiths and who are believers, to join the party," he said.

Harigovindan said he had expected that Left parties would resist social polarization, but in recent times, the statements from their leaders and their approach towards figures like SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesan showed they are birds of the same feather as Sangh Parivar. "As an artist, I am deeply frightened by such an approach," he said.

The son of legendary Sopana Sangeetham artist Njeralathu Rama Poduval noted that IUML is often misunderstood as a purely religious outfit. "From the outside, people often misunderstand it as purely a religious organization and I want to correct that misconception," he added.

"I have seen numerous instances of IUML upholding humanism not just in words but in action. When the doors of Angadipuram Shiva Temple were ablaze, Panakkad Mohammedali Shihab Thangal rushed to the site. It was not only a presence to show communal harmony but also provided confidence to a large community," he said.

Harigovindan also said that if IUML asks, he will take part in election campaigns for the party.