As a strong testimony to his connection with the masses, an unprecedented crowd befitting both his distinguished career and personality awaited the vehicle carrying Oommen Chandy’s mortal remains in Kollam. Tens of thousands lined the roads and gathered on main junctions to bid adieu to their beloved leader in scorching sun and rain. Many of them had camped overnight, and they patiently waited for the funeral procession that entered the district much behind the schedule.
Apart from the surprising size of the crowds that flooded MC Road, the procession witnessed an unusual outpouring of grief as the mourners shared fond memories of their leader. Boards, banners and hoardings dotted the road as the crowd of mourners swarmed the vehicle at each point to pay their last respects. Among them were senior citizens, differently abled persons, children, cashew workers, and senior leaders cutting across political affiliations.
