For DifferentTruths.com, Rita reports on the monumental book launch honouring PN Panicker, the legendary architect of India’s library movement.
AI Summary
- Official Book Release: Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan officially released “The Library Man of India – The Story of PN Panicker” by PP Sathyan at the Vice-President’s House in New Delhi.
- Tribute to a Legend: The event honoured Panicker’s massive socio-educational legacy, hailing him as a lifetime Gandhian whose foundational work drove Keralam’s legendary literacy rates.
- Distinguished Gathering: Key national figures, including Union Minister Suresh Gopi and Prof PJ Kurien, gathered to celebrate Panicker’s enduring impact on adult education and community libraries.
On May 22, 2026, at 4:00 PM, the Vice-President’s House in New Delhi witnessed a momentous occasion. The Honourable Vice-President of India, CP Radhakrishnan, officially released the book titled “The Library Man of India – The Story of PN Panicker”. Published by Rupa Publications (New Delhi), this seminal work is authored by PP Sathyan.
In his address, the Vice-President paid a glowing tribute to Panicker, stating: ‘A true Gandhian throughout his life, Panicker was the epitome of honesty and integrity in public life. At a time when moral and ethical standards in public life are constantly eroding, PN Panicker’s life shines like a beacon on a dark shore.”
A Gathering of Dignitaries
The high-profile event saw the participation of several prominent leaders and dignitaries who spoke passionately about Panicker’s enduring impact:
Suresh Gopi, Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas and Tourism, Government of India. Prof. P.J. Kurien, former Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
N Balagopal, Vice-Chairman of the PN Panicker Foundation (and son of PN Panicker), delivered the welcome address and introduced the dignitaries.
KP Harindran Achari, President of the Indian Society for Literacy Development, was present, too. The solemn ceremony commenced with the inspiring notes of the national song, Vande Mataram, and concluded with the resonant chords of the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana.
Revisiting the Legend: PN Panicker
PN Panicker remains an indisputable icon in the history of India’s—and specifically Keralam’s—social and educational evolution. Revered as the “Father of the Library Movement in Keralam”, he transformed a simple love for reading into a massive social revolution, laying the bedrock for Keralam’s exceptional literacy rates.
Early Life and the Spark of a Movement
Born on March 1, 1909, in the village of Neelamperoor in Keralam’s Kottayam district, Panicker started his career as a modest school teacher. However, his vision was far larger. In 1926, at the tender age of 17, he established the ‘Sanathanadharmam Library’ in his village. This small library was the historic first step of a lifelong crusade.
The Birth of ‘Granthashala Sangham’
In 1945, Panicker led an extraordinary effort to unify 47 rural libraries under one banner, forming the ‘Granthashala Sangham’ (Keralam Library Association).
The movement was driven by a powerful, transformative slogan, ‘Vaayichu Valaruka’ (read and grow).
Through his relentless touring of towns and villages, thousands of libraries sprouted across the state. He successfully brought books to the doorsteps of ordinary citizens, transforming reading from a luxury into a cultural habit.
KANFED and Adult Education
When the library system was later institutionalised under state control, Panicker did not rest. In 1977, he founded KANFED (Keralam Association for Non-Formal Education and Development). This initiative targeted adults and those outside the formal education system, providing them with functional literacy, social awareness, and vocational training.
Immortalising His Legacy
National Reading Day: PN Panicker passed away on June 19, 1995. To honour his unparalleled contribution, the Government of India and the Government of Keralam declared June 19 as ‘Reading Day’ (Vayanadinarn). The celebrations have since expanded into a week-long ‘Reading Week’.
Commemorative Stamp: In 2004, the Government of India recognised his monumental nation-building efforts by releasing a commemorative postage stamp in his honour.
Conclusion
PN Panicker’s life is a masterclass in how a single individual, without holding high political or administrative office, can revolutionise an entire society using books and libraries as tools of empowerment. The progressive, highly literate society that Keralam boasts today is a living testament to the enduring vision of the ‘Library Man of India’.
Picture designed by AI
Born in Shillong, Rita Biswas Pandey’s diverse career spans education and corporate life. A North Eastern Hill University graduate, she holds multiple certifications in social welfare and computer studies. Retiring from UPS to pursue her passion, now a Delhi resident, is a published author (Tinkonya, Yuddha and Kabita somogro ). She also enjoys singing, poetry recitation,sketches, cooking, photography, Blogging and vlogging, sharing her life with her husband, Vinod, and their beloved pet, Titu.
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