Mannam jayanthi is the birth anniversary
of Mannathu Padmanabhan (January 2, 1878 - February 25, 1970). He was a freedom
fighter, social reformer and founder of NSS (Nair Services Society). Mannam
Jayanthi is annually observed on January 2. In 2025, it is the 146th birth
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.