Sat Nov 22 18:05:10 UTC 2025: Summary:
A memorial meeting was held at the Kerala Sahitya Akademi in Thrissur for Kalpatta Balakrishnan, a prominent figure in Kerala’s academic, cultural, and literary circles. Senior Congress leader M.M. Hassan inaugurated the event, highlighting Balakrishnan’s courage in championing Gandhian ideals at a time when they were often dismissed. Hassan noted the increasing relevance of Gandhian philosophy today, even among those who once opposed it, and called for the collective implementation of these ideals. The Dr. Kalpatta Balakrishnan Memorial Awards were also presented at the event.
News Article:
Gandhi’s Relevance Resurges: Congress Leader Champions Ideals at Kalpatta Balakrishnan Memorial
Thrissur, India – November 22, 2025 – A memorial meeting honoring the late Kalpatta Balakrishnan, a significant figure in Kerala’s intellectual landscape, was held at the Kerala Sahitya Akademi in Thrissur on Saturday. Senior Congress leader M.M. Hassan used the occasion to emphasize the renewed relevance of Gandhian ideals in modern society.
Balakrishnan, known for his contributions to academia, culture, and literature, was lauded for his steadfast belief in Gandhian principles even when they were unpopular. Hassan noted that “those who once dismissed Gandhian ideals as outdated are now beginning to recognise their relevance.” He further stated that Balakrishnan courageously championed these ideals “when Gandhian philosophy had little representation in Malayalam literature.”
Hassan also pointed to attempts to push Gandhi’s legacy “into obscurity” since 2014, following a change in national government. He called for unity in implementing Gandhian principles, urging all to “rise above political differences.”
During the memorial, the Dr. Kalpatta Balakrishnan Memorial Awards were presented to K. Raghunathan, N. V. Janardhanan, and Vishwajith. The event was attended by prominent figures including former Speaker Therambil Ramakrishnan and former MLA T.V. Chandramohan.
First Piper 