Sadanandan, a victim of political violence, vows to strive for devpt

HE HAS a calm and pleasing bearing. But behind the smile is a man of grit and resolve.

- MANOJ VISWANATHAN @Kochi

A teacher by profession and an ardent volunteer of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the nomination of C Sadanandan to the Rajya Sabha is being seen as a recognition of his ideological steadfastness, even in the face of threats and violent attacks.

Born into a communist family in Perinchery, Mattannur, Sadanandan was an active member of the CPM during his college days. He had his school education at Mattannur Sivapuram HSS where former Health Minister K K Shailaja served as a teacher. He went on to complete his pre-degree from Mattannur Pazhassi Raja NSS College and degree from Kuthuparamba St Mary's College. After completing BEd from Guwahati he joined Kuzhikkal LP School in Kannur as a teacher.