New Delhi, 12 July (H.S.): 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.

According to the Vice President's Secretariat, while addressing a function organised by the Nair Service Society (NSS), the Vice President described the occasion as a historic celebration of the legacy of one of modern India's greatest social reformers and nation-builders. He said the memorial was not merely a structure but a lasting tribute to a visionary leader whose ideals transcended caste, region and religion, paving the way for social justice, equality and national service.

Recalling the life and contributions of Mannathu Padmanabhan, the Vice President said he dedicated his life to the upliftment of society through education, social reform, self-reliance and community service. He described Padmanabhan as a true leader of social renaissance whose vision extended far beyond narrow sectional interests. He firmly believed that every individual deserved equal dignity and equal opportunity.

The Vice President expressed satisfaction that Mannathu Padmanabhan's ideals had spread beyond Kerala. He appreciated the efforts of the Delhi unit of the Nair Service Society for preserving cultural traditions such as Kalaripayattu, Kathakali and Mohiniyattam while simultaneously promoting modern education and social service. He noted that NSS Delhi has grown into a vibrant organisation with 25 branches and nearly 25,000 members.

On the occasion, the Vice President also planted a sapling at the Mannam International Centre under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign. The plantation programme was organised by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.

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 distinguished guests were present at the event.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar