Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Sunday, 12 July unveiled the statue of social reformer and freedom fighter Mannathu Padmanabhan and inaugurated the Mannam Smrithi Mandapam at the Mannam International Centre in Dwarka, New Delhi, in an event organised by the Nair Service Society (NSS), Delhi. The occasion marked the realisation of a long-held vision for the community organisation, which now counts nearly 25,000 members across 25 branches in Delhi-NCR.

A Historic Tribute to a Nation-Builder

Addressing the gathering, Radhakrishnan described the event as a historic celebration of the enduring legacy of one of modern India's foremost social reformers and nation-builders. He said the Mannam Smrithi Mandapam is 'not merely a structure but the consecration of an enduring legacy' — a living tribute to a visionary whose ideals of social justice, equality, and national service, he argued, transcend caste, region, and religion.

Reflecting on the broader significance of memorials, Radhakrishnan remarked, 'Monuments are much more than carvings in stone; they are carvings made in the collective conscience of society. Their true purpose goes much beyond celebrating the past; they are an inspiration for the future.'

Legacy of Mannathu Padmanabhan

Mannathu Padmanabhan, the founder of the Nair Service Society, dedicated his life to the upliftment of society through education, social reform, self-reliance, and community service. The Vice President recalled how Padmanabhan accepted even modest contributions from ordinary households to establish educational and social institutions — a grassroots approach that, according to Radhakrishnan, transformed the lives of generations.

'He believed that every human being deserved equal dignity and equal opportunity. His life's work reminds us that genuine social progress is possible only when justice, compassion and inclusiveness become the guiding principles of society,' Radhakrishnan said. He characterised Padmanabhan as a leader of community renaissance whose vision extended well beyond sectional interests.

NSS Delhi's Growth and Cultural Mission

Radhakrishnan congratulated the NSS Delhi chapter for its impressive expansion into an organisation with 25 branches across Delhi-NCR and close to 25,000 members. He particularly appreciated the chapter's work in preserving Kerala's rich cultural heritage through classical arts including Kalaripayattu, Kathakali, and Mohiniyattam, alongside its focus on modern education and social service.

He noted that the remarkable growth of the Nair Service Society itself stands as testimony to the extraordinary dedication of its founder, who firmly believed that great institutions are built not by great wealth but by great commitment.

Environmental Initiative and Closing Appeal

On the sidelines of the event, the Vice President planted a sapling at the Mannam International Centre as part of the nationwide 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign, organised by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas to promote environmental conservation.

Calling upon citizens to carry forward Padmanabhan's mission, Radhakrishnan said, 'The greatest tribute we can pay to Mannathu Padmanabhan is by carrying forward his mission of building a society rooted in equality, education, compassion, service and national unity.' The inauguration of the Mannam Smrithi Mandapam is expected to serve as a permanent cultural and civic anchor for Kerala's diaspora community in the national capital.