Thu Jan 16 18:58:48 UTC 2025: ## Kerala CM Praised in Song at Government Event Amidst Criticism
**THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, January 17, 2025** – Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan was the subject of a celebratory song performed by government employees at the inauguration of a new building for the CPI(M)-affiliated Kerala Secretariat Employees Association (KSEA) on Thursday. The song, penned by a Finance Department employee, lauded Vijayan as a “phoenix and valiant commander-in-chief,” sparking renewed criticism over alleged cult of personality surrounding the Chief Minister.
This incident follows a similar controversy in 2022, when a large-scale Thiruvathirakali dance performance praised Vijayan with similarly effusive lyrics. While the author of the latest song, Poovathur Chithrasenan, stated he wrote the lyrics at the KSEA’s request and received encouraging feedback from fellow party members, he also acknowledged facing criticism from various sources, including right-wing media.
Approximately 100 people participated in the song, which was performed while Vijayan was present at the event. The Chief Minister, while previously downplaying similar incidents, acknowledged the media’s attention to such events during a recent press briefing, suggesting he understood the controversy generated.
During his speech at the inauguration, Vijayan addressed employee concerns, promising timely disbursement of arrears and salary revisions. He also highlighted improvements in government efficiency. The event itself marked the golden jubilee of the KSEA.
First Piper 