In a stunning political U-turn, 66-year-old Padmaja Venugopal, daughter of late Kerala heavyweight K. Karunakaran, is set to contest elections on a BJP ticket for the first time. After three consecutive defeats as a Congress candidate, she’s ready to switch allegiances in Thrissur, marking a dramatic shift in her career.
Padmaja’s lineage is legendary. Her father, K. Karunakaran, served as Chief Minister four times and dominated Kerala politics for decades. He was one of the most influential Congress leaders in the state’s history, paving the way for his son K. Muraleedharan to enter active politics successfully. In 1989, Muraleedharan defeated CPI(M) veteran Inbiichi Babu, solidifying the family’s grip.
Padmaja’s journey, however, has been far rockier. Her debut in 2004 from the Congress stronghold of Mukundapuram ended in defeat, setting a tough tone. As Karunakaran’s influence waned and health declined, her opportunities shrank within the party.
She made a comeback in 2016 from Thrissur assembly seat but lost again. In 2021, another shot at Thrissur saw her fall short by just 946 votes in one of the closest contests in recent years, highlighting her resilience amid setbacks.
Frustrated by perceived neglect in Congress, Padmaja quit months before the 2024 Lok Sabha polls and joined BJP. Now, with indications she’s cleared to run again from Thrissur, the constituency’s dynamics have evolved significantly since her last outing. This move could reshape local politics, blending legacy with a bold new alliance.