Sri Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma

Sri Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma, the Maharajah of Travancore who graciously transitioned the kingdom toward democratic governance, was a visionary leader dedicated to social progress and human dignity. In 1941, during the Second World War, he envisioned and established the Vanchi Poor Fund as a pioneering charitable institution to serve the most vulnerable in Kerala society. His revolutionary Temple Entry Proclamation of 1936 opened all temples to people of all castes—demonstrating his fundamental belief that dignity and respect belong to every person. As a deeply spiritual man who lived as Sree Padmanabhadasa (servant of Padmanabha Swami), he founded the Vanchi Poor Fund on the principle that true charity is a collective social duty. His legacy of compassion, justice, and community care continues to guide the organization's mission today.