VP Radhakrishnan Unveils Mannathu Padmanabhan Statue
C.P. Radhakrishnan says Mannathu Padmanabhan's ideals of equality and service continue to inspire the nation
- Vice President unveils statue of Mannathu Padmanabhan and inaugurates Mannam Smrithi Mandapam in Delhi.
- Says the social reformer’s ideals transcend caste, region and religion.
- Calls monuments a source of inspiration for future generations.
- Launches ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ plantation drive at the venue.
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 13th July: Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan on Sunday unveiled the statue of renowned social reformer and freedom fighter Mannathu Padmanabhan and inaugurated the Mannam Smrithi Mandapam at the Mannam International Centre in Dwarka, New Delhi.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice President described the occasion as a tribute to one of modern India’s greatest social reformers and nation-builders. Congratulating the Nair Service Society (NSS), Delhi, for establishing the memorial, he said the Mannam Smrithi Mandapam is not merely a structure but a living symbol of Mannathu Padmanabhan’s enduring legacy.
Radhakrishnan said the ideals of Mannathu Padmanabhan transcend caste, region and religion, and continue to illuminate the path of social justice, equality and national service. He noted that the founder of the Nair Service Society dedicated his life to education, social reform, self-reliance and community service, leaving behind an enduring legacy for future generations.
Highlighting his contribution to society, the Vice President said Mannathu Padmanabhan believed every individual deserved equal dignity and opportunity, adding that meaningful social progress could only be achieved through justice, compassion and inclusiveness.
He also praised the growth of the Nair Service Society, saying it stands as a testament to its founder’s vision and commitment. “Great institutions are built not by great wealth, but by great commitment,” he said, recalling how the organisation was built through contributions from ordinary citizens to establish educational and social institutions.
The Vice President appreciated the work of NSS Delhi in promoting Kerala’s cultural heritage through art forms such as Kalaripayattu, Kathakali and Mohiniyattam while expanding its social and educational initiatives. He noted that the organisation now has 25 branches across Delhi-NCR with nearly 25,000 members.
Describing monuments as more than structures of stone, Radhakrishnan said they preserve the nation’s collective conscience and inspire future generations as much as they commemorate the past.
Calling upon citizens to carry forward Mannathu Padmanabhan’s ideals, he urged people to work towards building a society rooted in equality, education, compassion, service and national unity.
During the programme, the Vice President also planted a sapling under the nationwide ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign to promote environmental conservation.
Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas and Tourism Suresh Gopi, NSS Delhi President M.K.G. Pillai, General Secretary M.D. Jayaprakash, and several other dignitaries attended the event.
