Abdul Rahim, a Malayali who spent nearly 20 years in a Saudi prison, returned to his hometown in Kerala on Wednesday morning. He landed at Karipur Airport at 7:30 AM via an Air India Express flight and was received by prominent figures including Bobby Chemmanur. His release came after a long legal battle and the collection of around ₹34 crore in blood money to secure his pardon from a death sentence.

Rahim was convicted in connection with the death of a Saudi boy and had been on death row. In July, his death sentence was commuted after the payment of diya (blood money). The campaign to raise funds saw contributions from Malayalis worldwide, with over ₹50 crore collected, of which about ₹12 crore remains unused. Rahim’s mother, Fathima, who had long prayed for his return, was among the emotional family members waiting at their home in Kodambuzha, Farook.

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Upon arrival, Rahim was overwhelmed and could only express gratitude, saying “thank you” to the media. The homecoming coincided with Eid al-Adha celebrations, adding to the joy. Rahim now faces the challenge of readjusting to a society that has changed drastically during his two decades in prison.