Congress candidate Priyanka Gandhi, while traveling from Mysore to Sultan Bathery, was warmly greeted by locals along the way. During this, Ms Gandhi, who will be filing her nomination papers as party’s candidate in the ensuing by-elections, met an ex-serviceman who shared that his elderly mother, despite her conditions, prays for Priyanka every day and wished she could meet her in person.

Deeply touched by this, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra decided to visit their home. The visit was, as seen in videos and photos shared by the Congress party, filled with warmth and heartfelt conversations.

In a touching gesture, the mother presented her cherished rosary, which she had used for years, as a symbol of her blessings and affection.

The by-election in Wanda was caused by Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s call to keep Raebareli after he won from both the Uttar Pradesh constituency and the Kerala constituency. Mr Gandhi, along with senior Kerala leaders of the party are expected to accompany Priyanka on Wednesday during the nomination proceedings.

BJP has fielded Navya Haridas, a youth leader to take on Ms Gandhi. Congress’ national INDIA alliance partner CPI has fielded former MLA Sathyan Mokeri as the Left parties have no alliance with the Congress in Kerala.