PM Modi Hails Mannathu Padmanabhan as Towering Social Reformer on 149th Birth Anniversary

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday described Mannathu Padmanabhan as a "towering figure in India's social reform movement," whose life was devoted to equality, education, and empowerment, on the occasion of the 149th birth anniversary of the social reformer and founder of the Nair Service Society (NSS).

In his message, he said Padmanabhan's ideals continue to inspire generations and guide society toward justice, compassion, and harmony.

"His efforts in health, education, and women's empowerment remain highly motivating. True progress is rooted in dignity, equality, and social reform," the prime minister noted.

The anniversary was celebrated with grandeur at the NSS headquarters in Perunna, Changanassery, drawing widespread participation.

Dr Cyriac Thomas, former Vice-Chancellor of Mahatma Gandhi University, inaugurated the Jayanthi meeting. He emphasised the need to preserve Mahatma Gandhi's political legacy and called on all, including Left-wing groups, to contribute to safeguarding Gandhi's ideals amid contemporary criticisms.

Addressing the gathering, NSS General Secretary G. Sukumaran Nair reaffirmed the organisation's political neutrality, clarifying that its stand during the Sabarimala issue was aimed at protecting faith and tradition, not aligning with any political ideology.

He added that NSS will maintain this impartial stance in the upcoming Kerala Legislative Assembly elections.

Paying homage to Padmanabhan, Sukumaran Nair highlighted the leader's lifelong work in social reform, education, and the upliftment of marginalised communities. He urged the younger generation to embrace Mannam's values of self-respect, discipline, and social harmony.

The celebrations included floral tributes and lamp-lighting at Mannam Samadhi, led by NSS President Dr. M. Shashikumar and Secretary Harikumar Koyikkal, along with cultural performances and public meetings.

As part of the anniversary, the NSS laid the foundation stone for a new 45,000 sq ft headquarters near the current premises in Perunna. Designed in traditional Kerala style, it will house a conference hall and guest rooms at an estimated cost of Rs 19 crore, fully funded without loans, demonstrating the organisation's financial self-sufficiency.

NSS leaders also announced preparations for the 150th Mannam Jayanthi in 2027, aiming to make it a grander and historic celebration of Padmanabhan's legacy.

The 149th Jayanthi celebrations underscored his enduring contributions to community upliftment, education, and social unity in Kerala, with active participation from NSS units across the state.

The programme began on January 1 with the Delegates Conference and continued on Friday with speeches, cultural programmes, and floral tributes at the Mannam Samadhi.

A massive 100,000 sq ft pandal accommodated delegates, community members, and leaders from political, social, and cultural spheres.