M.A. Krishnan, a veteran RSS pracharak and former chief editor of the weekly Kesari, died on Tuesday at the age of 97 in a private hospital in Kochi. The death marks the end of a long association with the Sangh Parivar’s cultural and social activities in Kerala.
BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar expressed his condolences and described the loss as irreparable to national movements and Kerala’s cultural and social life. Krishnan joined the RSS as a pracharak in 1954 and later held key organisational positions, including Prantha Bauddhik Pramukh and Prachar Pramukh.
In 1964 he entered journalism as editor of Kesari, using the platform to address a range of cultural, social and ideological issues. He was a founding figure behind Balagokulam and Tapasya Kala Sahitya Vedi, and introduced the character of ‘Unnikrishnan’ to children in Kerala, making him a popular presence in their cultural life. He also helped popularise Sri Krishna Jayanthi Shobhayatras across the state and led initiatives such as Amritabharathi, Balasamskarakendram, Balasahithi Prakashan, the International Srikrishna Centre and Saurakshika.
Krishnan’s influence extended beyond organisational work. His literary contribution, including ‘Nilayude Ithihasam’, reflected engagement with Kerala’s cultural and social issues. Through his association with Balagokulam, Janmashtami celebrations and the cultural activities of Tapasya, he helped establish these initiatives across different parts of the state. Chandrasekhar said his organisational, literary and cultural activities were unparalleled, and his life and contributions will remain a source of inspiration for future generations.
