At the fourth Kerala Legislature International Book Festival in Thiruvananthapuram, something beautiful unfolded that our world desperately needs to see more of: politicians from different parties sitting together, laughing, and celebrating their shared humanity.

The panel discussion on humor in politics brought together leaders from across the political spectrum, including C.P. John from the Communist Marxist Party, P.K. Basheer from the Indian Union Muslim League, K. Muraleedharan from the Congress, and Pannian Raveendran from the Communist Party of India. What could have been a tense gathering instead became a warm celebration of the friendships that connect them despite their different political ideologies.

Opening the session with wisdom and wit, John noted that "a joke is a very serious thing," setting the tone for a discussion that proved both thoughtful and touching. The leaders shared personal stories that revealed not just their sense of humor, but the deep respect they hold for one another.

Muraleedharan delighted the audience with a charming story about his father K. Karunakaran, who once cleverly outwitted opposition members who tried to snatch a suspension order from his hands. With characteristic quick thinking, Karunakaran pulled out a backup copy and joked, "Don't let them snatch my glasses too." The anecdote perfectly captured how humor has always played a vital role in political discourse.

Raveendran highlighted how meaningful humor should make people both laugh and think, referencing beloved actor Sreenivasan as an example. His observation that jokes should connect meaningfully to the topics being discussed showed the thoughtfulness these leaders bring to their work.

The Ripple Effect: Perhaps most touching was Basheer's reflection on the close friendships that existed among politicians of previous generations, including his father P. Seethi Haji. He recalled how leaders from different parties would share meals, watch movies together, and maintain close ties with each other's families. While he lamented that such friendships are rarer today, the very presence of these panelists together suggested that the spirit of cross-party friendship is far from dead.

The discussion also touched on modern challenges to political friendships, particularly through social media. Muraleedharan shared how a simple photograph of him chatting with fellow MP A.A. Rahim sparked abusive online comments suggesting that politicians with different views shouldn't even speak to one another. His thoughtful question, asking whether this attitude leads to a loss of human ties, resonated deeply.

John observed how social consciousness has evolved the nature of humor over time, with people becoming more thoughtful about what they find funny. This evolution reflects positive growth in societal awareness and sensitivity.

The session proved that even in an age of increasing political polarization, respect, friendship, and shared laughter can still bridge divides. These leaders demonstrated that political differences need not destroy human connections, offering a hopeful model for civil discourse everywhere.