From Dance to Halwa: Kerala’s creative drive to increase poll participation

In an innovative push to increase voter participation and strengthen the spirit of democracy , Kerala’s election authorities have rolled out a series of creative initiatives ahead of the April 9 Assembly elections , including a lively dance video that has gone viral on social media.

The 1.33-minute video features Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Rathan U Kelkar dancing along the seashore with officials involved in election management. Among those seen in the video are Thiruvananthapuram District Collector Anu Kumari , Assistant Collector Dr Sivasakthivel , and several members of the Election Department, including Booth Level Officers. Set to an upbeat rhythm, the video carries a clear message encouraging citizens, especially young voters, to exercise their franchise.

The song, launched in Kochi by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar , underscores the power of individual participation with lyrics emphasising that “ one vote can alter the fate ” of the state. Officials say the initiative is designed to connect with younger audiences in a relatable and engaging manner, while reinforcing the importance of voting.

Beyond the viral campaign, authorities have introduced additional measures to encourage turnout. First-time voters in Kerala will be greeted with ‘halwa’ at polling booths as a symbolic gesture of welcome. Ride-hailing platform Uber will also provide free rides to polling stations within a two-kilometre radius in Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram, making access to voting centres easier.

Further, state-run SupplyCo is considering offering rice flour at a nominal price of Re 1 in the days following the election.

Election officials believe such initiatives not only make the electoral process more accessible but also foster enthusiasm and civic responsibility , ultimately contributing to higher voter turnout and a more vibrant democratic process.