Kanyakumari, 27 August (H.S.): A. Balakrishnan, national president of the Vivekananda Kendra and a lifelong social worker known for his simplicity and unwavering commitment to national service, has passed away.

Balakrishnan assumed leadership of the organisation after the tenure of noted thinker and former president late P. Parameswaran. Despite holding several senior positions, he remained a humble and dedicated karmayogi, devoting his life to spreading the message and ideals of Swami Vivekananda.

Born in May 1937 at Venganellur near Pazhayannur in Thrissur district, Balakrishnan studied at Government High School, Chelakkara, Kerala Varma College in Thrissur and the Air Force Administrative College in Coimbatore.

He joined the Indian Air Force in 1957 and served for nearly 16 years in different parts of the country, including several border regions. In 1973, inspired by the call of Vivekananda Kendra founder Eknath Ranade, he resigned from the Air Force and joined the organisation's first batch of Jeevanvratis - full-time workers who dedicate their lives entirely to service.

Balakrishnan was subsequently assigned to Arunachal Pradesh, where he undertook extensive educational and social work among remote tribal communities. Travelling from village to village and visiting families, he identified children in need of education and helped establish schools. His sustained efforts contributed significantly to transforming the educational landscape of the region.

He was also the chief organiser of a historic journey from Kolkata to Kanyakumari, undertaken in remembrance of Swami Vivekananda's travels across India. The expedition covered nearly 22,000 kilometres over 347 days.

During his long association with the Vivekananda Kendra, Balakrishnan served as its general secretary, vice-president and national president. He worked tirelessly to expand the organisation's mission worldwide while continuing to lead an austere life. Despite heading a major national organisation, he did not own a car.

His life of sacrifice, service and dedication will remain an enduring source of inspiration for generations.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman