Malappuram: When 75-year-old Muhammad Ali, a Saudi national, found himself in the midst of a full-throttle local body election campaign, his curiosity was instantly piqued. Keen to watch democracy unfold at street level, he set out to explore the scene in an autorickshaw.

Ali had come to an Ayurveda hospital in Changuvetty for treatment. During his stay, the election atmosphere around him- posters of candidates, loudspeaker announcements and the bustling campaign trail- captivated him so much so that he hired an auto to tour the neighbourhood and take in the excitement first-hand.

During his journey, Iringallur Thonikkadavu captivated Muhammad the most. He spent a significant amount of time in this farming village, located on the banks of the Kadalundi River. Ambalavan Karat Mammadu, a farmer who had also spent 30 years in Saudi Arabia, accompanied him and assisted during the visit. Throughout the trip, Muhammad’s eyes remained fixed on the smiling faces of candidates displayed on posters lining the roads.

Though a staunch supporter of the Left, Mammadu patiently explained to the Saudi visitor about all the candidates and the parties they represented. He also helped Muhammad understand the government system, its services, and the functioning of local self-governance institutions.

Mammadu, a veeran farmer, also introduced Muhammad to the various crops cultivated in his farm, including tubers and vegetables. Perungadakkatu Avarootty, Jabir Iringalloor, Choondayil Subair, and Kalathingal Moosakutty were also part of the discussions.