About Us
Our Founding
Visionaries
The Basic Education Society was founded by K. Radhakrishna Menon, a Gandhian visionary, along with a group of individuals educators, and social workers, including K.M.K. Menon,
V. Krishna Menon, and Nirmala Menon. They believed that true education should uplift the mind and transform society.
History
Sevamandir in Ramanattukara was established at a time when enthusiasm for Basic Education was spreading across the country, with similar initiatives being implemented at the government level. After receiving training in teaching and integrated village development from the Hindustani Talimi Sangh at Sevagram—the very cradle of Basic Education
Shri K. Radhakrishna Menon returned to his homeland and started a children’s nursery, Sisunilayam, in his ancestral house in Ramanattukara near Calicut. This Sisunilayam marked the beginning of Sevamandir’s early activities.
Shri K. Radhakrishna Menon also had the opportunity to meet then-Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and discuss the financial struggles of his institution. Deeply moved, Nehru entrusted him with some of his own books and a cheque for Rs. 5,000. With this support, a proper school building was constructed.
In 1952, an organization named the Basic Education Society was registered, and under its aegis, the Sevamandir Basic Training School was established. In 1957, the Society received permission to start Kerala’s second Post-Basic School in Ramanattukara, which later grew into a full-fledged High School. Subsequently, the Society established another higher secondary school to accommodate students who had completed the 10th standard.
Tribute
K. Radhakrishna Menon (Radhettan) will always be remembered as a devoted freedom fighter, visionary educationist, and compassionate social reformer. Inspired by Gandhian ideals of peace, justice, and selfless service, he dedicated his life to the cause of India’s independence and to building a society rooted in equality and knowledge. After actively participating in the freedom struggle, he redirected his energy toward education, believing that true freedom could only be sustained through the empowerment of ordinary people, especially children.
As the founder of Sevmandir School (Temple of Service) and the Basic Education Society, he established the foundation for holistic, value-based education that combined knowledge with character-building. His vision extended beyond academics to nurturing responsible citizens committed to service and community welfare. Through his tireless efforts, he created institutions that became centers of learning, discipline, and social responsibility.
Shri Radhakrishna Menon’s legacy continues to inspire generations. His life serves as a reminder that courage in action and a commitment to service are the true hallmarks of leadership. By carrying forward his ideals, we honor his memory and ensure that the seeds he planted continue to flourish in the lives of young learners and in the communities he touched.
Board of BES (The committee)
