Question

When did the Kerala Grandhasala Sangham come into existence by incorporating the libraries of Travancore, Cochin and Malabar?

• A. 1947
• B. 1957
• C. 1956
• D. 1958

Answer 1

Answer:

C. 1956

• The Kerala Grandhasala Sangham came into existence in 1956.

  • Year of Incorporation: 1956 (following the formation of the unified Kerala State).

  • Background & Unification: It was formed by bringing together the independent library networks and regional associations of Travancore, Cochin, and Malabar under a single unified umbrella organization.

  • Pioneering Figure: P. N. Panicker is acclaimed as the Father of the Library Movement in Kerala. He led the formation of the Travancore Library Association (Thiruvithaamkoor Granthasala Sangham) in 1945, which later evolved into the Kerala Grandhasala Sangham in 1956.

  • Motto & Honors:

    • The famous slogan popularized by the movement was "Read and Grow" ("വായിച്ചു വളരുക").

    • In 1975, the Kerala Grandhasala Sangham received the prestigious UNESCO Krupsakaya Award for its remarkable contributions to literacy and adult education.

    • June 21, the death anniversary of P. N. Panicker, is observed by the Government of Kerala as Reading Day (Vayanadinam).