001. The Need for Caste Organisations : Mannam

“In this land where people were living divided for so long on the basis of their beliefs and customs, modes of life and conduct etc, social service could be undertaken solely on the lines of caste, group or community. Though service to one’s community is very narrow and restricted in scope, I have never felt that it should be condemned. I was fully aware that there were several communities which deserved help and support to improve their lot. But I was convinced that it was the Nairs who needed it most. I believe that a person who is pained at the plight of women should try to save his mother first. The miserable condition of the Nair Community then, would have shocked everyone with a heart”. Chapter IV, page 12, ‘Reminiscences of My Life’, Mannathu Padmanabhan, published by NSS Chry