THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Minister VN Vasavan stated that Dr P Palpu was a revolutionary who fought against the injustices in society with the power of knowledge. He began his battle against the discrimination faced by the Ezhava community who were restricted to traditional industries. The minister inaugurated the 160th birthday celebration and award ceremony organized by the Palpu Foundation.

After Sree Narayana Gurudev, Dr Palpu is one of the prominent figures who fought for Kerala's betterment. He faced challenges in pursuing education due to his lower caste background. Despite financial constraints he completed his studies and ranked fourth in the Travancore government medical training. However, he was denied opportunities for a government job because of his caste leading him to become a social reformer.

This year's recipient of the Dr P. Palpu Foundation Award is Dr P Chandramohan who exemplifies Dr Palpu's compassionate dedication to humanity in his life and work. Dr Chandramohan played a vital role during the Golden Age of Kottayam Medical College as the Superintendent. He is renowned for his exceptional skills in thoracic surgery. The minister presented the award to Dr Chandramohan.

Shailaja Ravi, director of Kerala Kaumudi and event chair described Dr Palpu as a fighter who overcame numerous obstacles to uplift himself and his community. She emphasized that today's generation has the privilege of education and achievement, thanks to pioneers like Dr Palpu who fought in an era when these opportunities were scarce.

Swami Satchidananda, President of Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham Trust delivered the benediction speech and Kadakampally Surendran MLA delivered the keynote address. Several dignitaries, including Sabarigiri Group Chairman Dr VK Jayakumar, Dr N Prasanthan, KP Shankaradas, Dr KP Haridas, Adv K Sambashivan, Dr GS Vijayakrishnan, Ratheeshbabu (Srinarayana Cultural Committee), Varkala FRAV Secretary Subash, Municipal Standing Committee Chairman CS Sujadevi, former councilor D Anilkumar were in attendance. Dr P Chandramohan delivered the response and Foundation General Secretary Ambalathara Chandrababu welcomed the guests. The vote of thanks was given by Adv K Sugathan.