New Delhi, May 22: India’s Vice President, C.P. Radhakrishnan, launched the book “The Library Man of India: The Story of P.N. Panicker,” written by P.P. Sathyan, at the Vice President’s residence on Friday. During his address, he paid heartfelt tribute to P.N. Panicker, describing him as a visionary who transformed the lives of millions through the silent power of books and knowledge. He congratulated the author, stating that this publication serves as a testament to Panicker’s extraordinary vision and enduring legacy.
The Vice President noted that Panicker lived a simple life while dreaming of a world where every individual, regardless of caste, class, poverty, or geographical location, could access knowledge. Reflecting on Panicker’s humble beginnings in Kuttanad, Kerala, he emphasized that Panicker understood early on that illiteracy is not just an inability to read, but a barrier to dignity, opportunity, and human progress.
Highlighting Panicker’s pivotal role in the library and literacy movement in Kerala, the Vice President mentioned that the initiative began with a modest reading room named Sanatana Dharma Library, which ultimately transformed the social and intellectual landscape of Kerala. He added that Panicker tirelessly traveled to villages and remote tribal settlements, inspiring the public and volunteers with the simple yet powerful message of “Read and Rise.”
Describing Panicker as the architect of Kerala’s cultural renaissance, the Vice President stated that he believed knowledge should never remain the privilege of a few but should serve humanity and become a catalyst for social awakening.
While discussing the development of libraries, the Vice President referenced India’s illustrious educational centers like Nalanda and Takshashila, which attracted scholars from around the world. He acknowledged that although libraries have transitioned into the digital age with e-books, digital archives, and online resources, the continuous decline in reading habits among the youth remains a serious concern.
Expressing worry over the excessive reliance on mobile phones, social media, and brief entertainment, the Vice President warned that deep reading, reflection, and thoughtful learning are gradually fading away. He cautioned that while technology has provided convenience, it has also diminished patience, concentration, and meaningful engagement with literature and knowledge.
He asserted that a society that abandons reading gradually loses its capacity for critical thinking, creative imagination, and profound understanding. He emphasized that books like “The Library Man of India” can play a crucial role in reviving a culture of reading and reflection among the younger generation.
Praising the efforts of the P.N. Panicker Foundation, led by N. Balagopal, the Vice President noted that the foundation is advancing Panicker’s legacy through remarkable initiatives promoting reading and learning.
He also highlighted several government initiatives aimed at strengthening India’s knowledge ecosystem. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision shared in “Mann Ki Baat,” he stated that libraries should evolve into dynamic centers of creativity. He commended the government’s “One Nation, One Subscription” initiative, which aims to enhance access to international academic research and journals for students and researchers across the country.
In closing his address, the Vice President remarked that Panicker’s greatness lies not only in building libraries but also in instilling hope, awareness, and confidence among ordinary citizens. He stated that a library can change a child’s future, a book can transform a life, and a determined individual can change an entire society.
He called on society to renew its commitment to reading, learning, and spreading knowledge, urging parents, teachers, and institutions to encourage children to develop a reading habit.
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