At 95, P.K. Medini, Keralam’s singer of revolutionary anthems, gets her own ‘Red Salute’

At the remarkable age of 95, veteran singer P.K. Medini, often referred to as Medini Chechi, has received a fitting tribute from the Communist Party of India (CPI). The CPI has given her a permanent residence named 'Red Salute' in Thottakam near Vaikom, the birthplace of the revered Communist leader P. Krishna Pillai. This home is a symbol of Medini's lifelong dedication to the Communist movement, as well as her deep connection to P. Krishna Pillai's legacy.

For nearly a decade, Medini had been living in rented accommodations in Mannancherry, Alappuzha, before finally securing a home of her own. The CPI State leadership's initiative to help her settle in the land associated with P. Krishna Pillai, her mentor, made this dream a reality. The plot, measuring 5.5 cents, was purchased for ₹10 lakh, and the house, covering 600 square feet, was built within just 62 days by the CPI, at an additional cost of ₹15 lakh.

The newly constructed home, painted red and white, features red flower pots and a bamboo fence. Medini herself chose the name 'Red Salute', a nod to the revolutionary anthem that has accompanied her throughout her career. The CPI State secretary, Binoy Viswam, is scheduled to hand over the keys to Medini in an upcoming function.

Medini, a product of a family steeped in Leftist ideals, began singing on stage at the tender age of 13 and joined the Communist Party when she was 26. Her powerful voice became a staple at party meetings and election campaigns, effectively spreading the Communist message to the masses. Throughout her long-standing association with the Communist movement, Medini's songs have resonated across political lines, attracting diverse audiences to her performances.

Even after her husband's passing five years ago, leaving her with her younger daughter Hansa, Medini has remained committed to the cause. She has expressed her desire to transform her 'Red Salute' home into an art and cultural center, welcoming anyone in need who seeks shelter. Medini sees this as a fitting memorial to the countless unknown communists who sacrificed their lives for the cause in Keralam.