THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Four and a half decades have passed since the passing of 'Pathradhipar' (The Editor) K. Sukumaran, a man who dedicated his life to fighting for the rights of the downtrodden. Today, his death anniversary is being observed across Kerala Kaumudi units and under the auspices of various progressive organisations.
The 'lion's roar' Pathradhipar raised to ensure that the deserving received their due continues to echo in Kerala society to this day. His life's mission was the resurgence of the downtrodden and backward sections of society. Even while spearheading the struggle for justice, Pathradipar never compromised his principles nor bowed before the powerful.
K. Sukumaran wielded his pen as a formidable weapon on behalf of workers, the common people, the destitute, and those marginalised by social divisions. It is precisely for this reason that, despite the existence of numerous newspapers in Kerala, society bestowed the title of 'Pathradhipar'—The Editor—upon K. Sukumaran.
The Editor was a devout follower of Gurudeva and was deeply committed to propagating the philosophy of Sree Narayana. As an editor, he insisted strictly on the credibility and veracity of news reports. The tradition he established is still upheld, and for the same reason the reports brought to the public by Kerala Kaumudi continue to be regarded as impartial and authoritative.
A commemorative meeting will be held today at the Kerala Kaumudi premises in Pettah under the auspices of the Kerala Kaumudi Non-Journalist Association. A floral tribute will be paid at the Editor's memorial at 10:00 AM. Following this, Minister K. Muraleedharan will inaugurate the commemorative meeting. G.R. Anil MLA will preside over the function, and Minister C.P. John will be the chief guest. V. Muraleedharan MLA will deliver the keynote address, and C.K. Hareendran MLA will also speak. The 'Editor's Memorial Award' and the 'Welfare Fund Award' will be presented during the ceremony. V. Balagopal, President of the Kerala Kaumudi Non-Journalist Association, will deliver the welcome address, while General Secretary K.S. Sabu will propose the vote of thanks.