Mannathu Padmanabhan (January 2, 1878 - February 25, 1970) was
a freedom fighter, social reformer and founder of NSS (Nair Services Society). Death
Anniversary of Mannam is annually observed on February 25. In 2024, it is the 54th death anniversary of Mannathu Padmanabha Pillai.
To uplift the status of the Nair community in Kerala, he
established Nair Service Society in 1914. He revived the Karayogams, village
societies, which led to more unity among the Nair community.
He fought for social equality by opening his family temple
to irrespective of caste. He fought against untouchability by participating in
the famous Vaikom Satyagraha and Guruvayur Temple entry.
He was one of the architects of the famous Vimochana Samaram,
which led to the ouster of the first communist ministry in Kerala in 1959.
He helped in founding numerous colleges and schools across
the state.