105-year-old Kerala man attains digital literacy, hailed as ‘Real Kerala Story’ hero, gifted smartphone

Kochi: Kerala Local Self-Government Minister M.B. Rajesh has described 105-year-old M.A. Abdulla Moulavi Bakhavi of Perumbavoor, who recently attained digital literacy, as the “true hero of the Kerala Story,” while presenting him with a new smartphone to mark the milestone.

Lauding Moulavi as a symbol of Kerala’s pride and determination, the Minister said “By becoming digitally literate at 105, Abdulla Moulavi has proved that age is no barrier to learning. His achievement makes him a historic figure in Kerala’s journey towards becoming the first fully digitally literate state."

The Minister, who visited him at his residence, gifted him a smartphone as recognition of his accomplishment. He also praised the Ashamannoor Grama Panchayat for including Moulavi in the state’s digital literacy programme, despite national guidelines restricting the drive to those below 65.

“Kerala did not leave him behind, and he embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm. This is the Kerala model,” Rajesh added.

During the interaction, Moulavi demonstrated his new skills by opening YouTube and making a video call to his grandson abroad. When asked if learning had been difficult, he simply replied, “Everything was easy.”
Overjoyed on receiving the smartphone, Moulavi told the Minister that he would call him soon using the device. Panchayat President Shiji Shaji, former President V.P. Shashindran, elected representatives, and officials were also present.