Kochi, Sep 29 (IANS) Veteran RSS pracharak and former Kesari chief editor M.A. Krishnan, popularly known as M.A. Sir, died on Tuesday at the age of 97, marking the end of a long association with the Sangh Parivar’s cultural and social activities in Kerala.

He passed away at a private hospital in Kochi. BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar condoled his death and described it as an irreparable loss to national movements and Kerala’s cultural and social life.

Krishnan was among the early organisers who worked to expand the RSS and its associated cultural initiatives in Kerala.

He became an RSS pracharak in 1954 and later held key organisational responsibilities, including Prantha Bauddhik Pramukh and Prachar Pramukh.

He entered the media field in 1964 as the editor of Kesari. Through the publication and his writings, he intervened in a range of cultural, social and ideological issues.

Krishnan was also closely associated with the founding and development of several organisations and initiatives aimed at children’s cultural activities.

He was a founder and guiding force behind Balagokulam and Tapasya Kala Sahitya Vedi.

Chandrasekhar said Krishnan played a key role in introducing the character of ‘Unnikrishnan’ (little Krishna) to children in Kerala and in making him a popular presence in their cultural life.

He also played an important role in popularising Sri Krishna Jayanthi Shobhayatras across the state, Chandrasekhar said.

Krishnan provided leadership to several other initiatives, including Amritabharathi, Balasamskarakendram, Balasahithi Prakashan, International Srikrishna Centre and Saurakshika.

His interventions extended beyond organisational work.

His work, including ‘Nilayude Ithihasam’, reflected his engagement with Kerala’s cultural and social issues.

His association with Balagokulam, the Janmashtami celebrations and the cultural activities of Tapasya helped establish these initiatives across different parts of the state.

Chandrasekhar said Krishnan’s influence through his organisational, literary and cultural activities was unparalleled.

His life and contributions would remain a source of inspiration for future generations, Chandrasekhar said.

–IANS

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