Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid tribute to renowned social reformer and freedom fighter Mannathu Padmanabhan on his birth anniversary, remembering him as a visionary who dedicated his life to social reform, dignity and equality.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, “On the birth anniversary of Mannathu Padmanabhan, we remember with deep reverence a towering personality whose life was dedicated to serving society. He was a visionary who believed that true progress is rooted in dignity, equality and social reform. His efforts in areas like health, education, women empowerment are very motivating. His ideals continue to guide us towards a society that is just, compassionate and harmonious.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid homage to ‘Bharat Kesari’. He said in a post on X, “I bow to the sagacious social reformer. A devout patriot Padmanabhan Ji dedicated himself to strengthening the highest values of the society in Kerala and paved the way for a fair and equitable society through his lifelong struggle to address social maladies. His legacy continues to inspire us in our efforts to build a united and a powerful India.”
Kerala BJP chief Rajeev Chandrashekhar highlighted Padmanabhan’s role as a freedom fighter and founder of the Nair Service Society (NSS), noting that his life continues to inspire generations to challenge social inequalities through education and organisation.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor remembered Padmanabhan as a towering figure in Kerala’s history, a fearless freedom fighter and a committed reformer whose legacy through the NSS continues to promote social advancement and quality education.
Mannathu Padmanabhan, popularly known as Mannam, was born on January 2, 1878, in Perunna near Changanassery. Despite facing financial hardship and interrupted schooling, he went on to become a teacher and later a lawyer, experiences that shaped his empathy for social inequities and his commitment to reform.
In 1912, he founded the Keraleeya Nair Samajam, which later evolved into the Nair Service Society in 1915. While the NSS focused on the social and educational upliftment of the Nair community, Padmanabhan’s reformist vision extended beyond sectional interests and aligned with Kerala’s broader social renaissance.
He played a significant role in major social and political movements, including the Guruvayur Satyagraha of 1931, opposed authoritarian rule in Travancore, and later served as a member of the Travancore Legislative Assembly. He also contributed to strengthening educational infrastructure, including the establishment of institutions such as the NSS Engineering College.
In recognition of his contributions to society, Padmanabhan was honoured with the title ‘Bharata Kesari’ and later awarded the Padma Bhushan. He passed away in 1970, but remains a defining symbol of principled leadership, institution-building and social reform in Kerala’s public life.
(With agency inputs)
