Mumbayile Malayali Prathibhakal (മുംബൈയിലെ മലയാളി പ്രതിഭകൾ)

by Kerala In Mumbai
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Mumbayile Malayali Prathibhakal is a regular feature of Kerala in Mumbai, dedicated to celebrating the lives, achievements, and enduring contributions of Malayalees who have distinguished themselves in Mumbai through talent, dedication, perseverance, and hard work.

For decades, members of the Malayali community have played a significant role in shaping the social, cultural, educational, and economic landscape of Mumbai. Their contributions span diverse fields such as literature, arts, music, cinema, business, education, science, social service, sports, and public life. Their journeys of commitment and excellence continue to inspire generations and remain a source of pride for the community.

Through this feature, Kerala in Mumbai seeks to document and honour these remarkable personalities by sharing their stories of achievement, resilience, service, and leadership, thereby preserving an important chapter in the collective memory of Mumbai’s Malayali community.

In this edition of Mumbaiyile Malayali Prathibhakal, we are proud to present AKG Nair, a distinguished social worker and community leader who has dedicated much of his life to serving society. Featured as the Cover Story in the July 2015 issue of Kerala in Mumbai under the title “AKG Nair – Passion for Social Work,” the article portrays a man whose professional career, community involvement and charitable activities have been guided by a strong desire to help those in need.

Born in Kalambore, Kannur District, Kerala, AKG Nair came to Mumbai in 1963. He began his professional career with the Income Tax Department as a Lower Division Clerk while simultaneously pursuing his education. He completed his B.A. (Hons.) degree from Rupparel College and later obtained an M.A. from the University of Pune. His dedication and professional excellence eventually led to his selection for the Indian Revenue Service (IRS) in 1991. After several decades of distinguished service, he retired as an Additional Commissioner of Income Tax. He was also associated with the Bajaj Institute as a part-time faculty member and guided many Income Tax employees preparing for departmental examinations.

However, AKG Nair’s contribution extends far beyond his professional career. His strong commitment to charitable and social activities has made him an active presence in the community. He served as Secretary of the Sree Ramadasa Mission Universal Society and was the Founder Trustee of the Universal Medical Mission Trust at Badlapur. Through his efforts, the Sree Ramadasa Mission was able to acquire land and establish an ashram named after His Holiness Swami Satyananda Saraswathi. The Mission has also organised medical camps, distributed medicines and supported underprivileged people in Maharashtra and Kerala.

One of the major initiatives highlighted in the article is the proposed medical centre in Kalambore, Panvel, intended to provide medical assistance to people from an underserved area. The project was envisioned to include qualified doctors, an Ayurvedic dispensary, free treatments and emergency medical services. AKG Nair also played an important role in establishing the BMS Borivali Diagnostic Centre, which was functioning with allopathic doctors as well as an Ayurvedic dispensary and free treatment facilities.

His connection with the Borivali Malayali Samajam (BMS) has been another important part of his community life. He served as Vice President for several terms and as President from 1987 to 2012. The article notes his contribution towards healthcare initiatives and other activities benefiting the Malayali community. He was also involved in the Samajam’s efforts towards education and student welfare, including the initiative connected with the V. K. Krishnan Menon Academy in Borivali.

AKG Nair’s social involvement has also extended to religious and cultural organisations. He served as the President of Shree Ayyappa Seva Sangam Sahitya Nagar and was involved in efforts to establish an Ayyappa temple in Ram Nagar. He has also been associated with the Borivali Lodge Society and has led groups of devotees travelling to Sabarimala over several years. His association with the Chinmaya Mission included involvement in activities such as the Chinmaya Mission’s yajna programmes in Borivali.

His contribution to the community has received recognition through several awards and honours. The article mentions the Best Malayali Social Worker of Mumbai Award, presented by the Raghunath Foundation, as well as the Mannath Acharya Puraskaram and other recognitions for his contributions to community welfare, spirituality, education and humanitarian services. It also highlights the Karmashrestha Award, which he received in 2011 for his selfless service to the public.

Family has remained an important part of AKG Nair’s life as well. His wife Vijayalakshmi, who worked with Corporation Bank for 39 years, has been described as a devoted partner in his journey. Their children have pursued their own professional careers, while remaining connected with the family’s values and activities. The article reflects on AKG Nair’s early years in Mumbai, when Malayalee Samajams were among the important centres of community life, and his continuing efforts to contribute to the community over the decades.

AKG Nair’s journey is ultimately one of professional dedication, community leadership and service to society. From his long career in the Income Tax Department to his extensive involvement in healthcare, education, charitable activities and the Malayali community, he has continued to dedicate his time and energy to causes that benefit others.

We hope this edition of Mumbaiyile Malayali Prathibhakal continues to celebrate the remarkable Malayalees who have contributed to Mumbai’s social and cultural life. AKG Nair’s story stands as a reflection of a life guided by the belief that true achievement is also measured through service to the community and the willingness to help those in need.

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