Introduction
Mannathu Padmanabhan was a towering social reformer and a relentless champion of Hindu unity, transcending caste barriers. His visionary leadership led to the establishment of the Nair Service Society (N.S.S.), which played a crucial role in uplifting the Nair community and promoting education, healthcare, and social welfare. He worked tirelessly for the unity of Hindus, forging alliances with other leaders of his time to fight for social justice and equality.
Early Life and Background
Mannathu Padmanabhan was born on January 2, 1878, in Perunna, Kottayam, Kerala. His early life was marked by humble beginnings, but he exhibited an extraordinary commitment to social causes. Trained as a teacher and later as a lawyer, his deep concern for the upliftment of the oppressed inspired him to dedicate his life to community service.
The Formation of Nair Service Society (N.S.S.)
In the early 20th century, the Nair community faced significant socio-economic and educational backwardness. Recognizing the urgent need for organized reform, Mannathu Padmanabhan founded the Nair Service Society (N.S.S.) on October 31, 1914. The N.S.S. aimed to uplift the community by promoting education, employment, and social unity.
His enormous efforts to develop the organization from scratch involved:
• Mobilizing the community for collective action.
• Establishing schools and colleges to ensure education for future generations.
• Encouraging inter-caste harmony and Hindu unity.
Despite facing numerous challenges, he transformed the N.S.S. into one of the most influential social organizations in Kerala.
Hindu Unity and Social Reforms
Mannathu Padmanabhan’s vision extended beyond the Nair community. He advocated Hindu unity, urging different castes to come together and eliminate discrimination. He played a vital role in the Nivarthana Agitation (1932), which demanded equal rights for the underprivileged sections of the Hindu community in government jobs and education.
His efforts led to:
• Temple Entry Proclamation (1936) – He supported the movement for allowing lower-caste Hindus to enter temples.
• Caste Reforms – Encouraged marriage reforms, widow remarriage, and women’s education.
• Strengthening Hindu-Muslim Relations – Worked for communal harmony across religious lines.
Interaction with Other Leaders
Mannathu Padmanabhan’s reformist zeal brought him into contact with many great national and social leaders.
He worked closely with Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sree Narayana Guru, supporting their efforts to reform Indian society.
Some of his notable interactions include:
• With Mahatma Gandhi – He supported Gandhiji’s call for Hindu unity and eradication of untouchability.
• With Sree Narayana Guru – Shared a common goal of uplifting marginalized communities and uniting Hindus above caste divisions.
• With E.V. Ramasamy Periyar – Discussed the need for social reforms in South India.
Political Involvement
Though primarily a social reformer, Mannathu Padmanabhan had a significant impact on politics. He believed in using political influence to achieve social progress.
• In 1947, he led the Vimochana Samaram (Liberation Struggle) against the Communist government in Kerala, resulting in the dismissal of the first elected Communist ministry in India.
• He was nominated to the Travancore Legislative Assembly and later became a member of the Kerala Legislative Assembly.
• Actively advocated for educational reforms and employment reservations to uplift the backward communities.
Contributions to Education and Healthcare
Mannathu Padmanabhan strongly believed that education was the key to social transformation. Under his leadership, the N.S.S. established numerous schools, colleges, and hospitals. Some of the notable institutions under N.S.S. include:
Educational Institutions
1. N.S.S. College, Changanassery
2. N.S.S. College, Pandalam
3. N.S.S. Hindu College, Perunna
4. N.S.S. Law College, Kottayam
5. N.S.S. Polytechnic College, Pandalam
6. N.S.S. Engineering College, Palakkad
7. N.S.S. Training College, Ottapalam
Healthcare Institutions
1. N.S.S. Medical Mission Hospital, Pandalam
2. N.S.S. Homeopathic Medical College, Kottayam
3. Various charitable hospitals and clinics across Kerala
These institutions continue to play a vital role in education and healthcare in Kerala, serving people from all communities.
Personal Life and Legacy
Despite his high stature, Mannathu Padmanabhan led a simple and disciplined life. He was deeply spiritual and followed Hindu traditions and values.
He passed away on February 25, 1970, leaving behind a powerful legacy of social reform, education, and Hindu unity.
Honors and Recognition
• Awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1966 by the Government of India.
• Commemorated through statues and memorials across Kerala.
• N.S.S. continues to carry forward his vision of education, social service, and community welfare.
External Links for Further Reading
• Nair Service Society Official Website
• Biography of Mannathu Padmanabhan
• Kerala History – Mannathu Padmanabhan
Conclusion
Mannathu Padmanabhan’s tireless efforts in founding and strengthening the N.S.S. changed the course of history for the Nair community and Kerala as a whole. His commitment to Hindu unity, education, and social reforms makes him one of the greatest social reformers India has ever seen. His legacy continues to inspire generations to work towards social justice and equality.