PM Modi praised Thiruvananthapuram’s first BJP mayor, V.V. Rajesh, calling him "my old friend" and highlighting his historic role.

During a public address on January 23, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to Thiruvananthapuram Mayor V.V. Rajesh as "my old friend" and "the pride of Thiruvananthapuram," emphasizing Rajesh's historic role as Kerala's first BJP mayor. Rajesh was on the dais at both events, despite not attending the airport reception. Modi's personal acknowledgement and gesture of walking alongside him served as a symbolic endorsement of the BJP's growing influence in the state, highlighting Rajesh's rise from youth wing leader to city mayor.