History

K.P. Kesavamenon Memorial Trust formed in memory of K.P. Kesavamenon has been a successful initiative for the past four decades and continues to be so. Kesavamenon, a veteran freedom fighter is also the founder of Mathrubhumi and a pioneer in creating the unified State of Kerala. In addition, he is a prominent literary figure. He was referred to as a “soothing writer” by Dr. Sukumar Azheekodu. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan on January 26, 1966. Commemorating this great achievement, the public came together in unis on, putting forward the idea of establishing an auditorium in memory of Kesavamenon. Acommittee consisting of seven members was for med for the same.With the approval of Kesavamemon, the construction of he auditorium soon began.

On August 30, 1966, the construction of the auditorium was in augurated by the then Vice President of India, V. V. Giri. Eleven years later, after the completion of the construction, the then Governor, Jyoti Venkidachalam inaugurated the auditorium on August 27, 1978. A midst this moment of joy came the news of Kesavamenon’s death on November 9 of the same year bringing tears to millions. K.P. Kesavamenon Memorial Trust was formed after his death ( the official functioning of the trust
began on October18, 1982 ). A meeting in memory of Kesavamenon is conducted on November 9 ofe very year where in several prominent literary figures attend without fail. This tradition continue still date.

Kesavamenon’s writings are still preserved in ‘Kesavamemon Corner’ in the library constructed in memory of Kombukuttimenon ( a martyr of Indian freedom struggle ). Many scholars and students visit the library in orderto conduct research activities. The Memorial Trust gives out scholarships and conducts cultural festivals fo rthe students in Alathur Taluk. Despite going through several financial struggles for years, the Trust was renovated with the help of the then Managing Director of Mathrubhumi, M.P. Veerendrakumar in 2004-05. The Trust conducts various relief activities, literary camps and cultural activities. Economically backward children are provided with study materials. K.P. Kesavamenon Award with a cashprize of 25,000 is given to deserving literary enthusiasts on November 9th of every year without fail.