New Delhi, 02 January (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid heartfelt tributes on Friday to Mannathu Padmanabhan, the revered founder of the Nair Service Society (NSS), marking his birth anniversary observed annually as Mannam Jayanti.

In a poignant post on X, Modi described Padmanabhan as a towering personality whose life was dedicated to serving society, hailing him as a visionary who championed true progress through dignity, equality, and social reform. He highlighted Padmanabhan's inspiring contributions in health, education, and women empowerment, adding, His ideals continue to guide us towards a society that is just, compassionate, and harmonious.

Born on January 2, 1878, in Kerala to a modest family, Padmanabhan began his career as a school teacher in 1893 before becoming a prominent lawyer.

Recognizing the need for Nair community upliftment—a socially influential group comprising about 14.5% of Kerala's population—he founded the NSS on October 31, 1914, serving as its secretary for 31 years and president for three.

Padmanabhan's activism extended to India's freedom struggle, including leading the Vaikom Satyagraha (1924) for temple entry and Guruvayur Satyagraha (1931) against untouchability, while promoting reforms in rituals, education, and social practices.

Awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1966 and honored with the title Bharata Kesari, he passed away on February 25, 1970, leaving a legacy of community welfare through NSS's vast network of institutions and initiatives.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar