D. Unnikrishnan

PROFILE

D. Unnikrishnan, born on September 13, 1932, in Attingal, exhibited a profound passion for sports since his youth, excelling in track and field, football, hockey, and volleyball during his schooling at St. Xavier’s, Tirunelveli, and S.N College, Kollam.

In 1952, marking his 20th birthday, D. Unnikrishnan laid the foundation of the Attingal Amateur Athletic Association (AAAA), marking the beginning of his enduring commitment to sports. His vision was instrumental in acquiring the land crucial for the establishment of the Sreepadam Stadium. Maharajah Sri Chithira Thirunal’s generous gift of this land in 1959 became a pivotal moment in Unnikrishnan’s quest to create a sporting legacy in Attingal.

Unnikrishnan’s dedication to sports extended beyond his role as a civil servant (Retired Assistant Director of State Treasury), he devoted his leisure hours to fostering community involvement in various sports and games. His unwavering commitment attracted the support of Godavarma Raja, the Maharaja’s brother-in-law, who wholeheartedly championed Unnikrishnan’s sports initiatives. This support eventually led to the Palace’s generous gift of land in 1959, solidifying Unnikrishnan’s pursuit of a vibrant sports culture in Attingal.

Under his leadership, the stadium transformed from cashew plantations to a world-class sporting arena, featuring a 200m track and football field. He also initiated the Sri Chithra Coaching School, producing top-tier athletes, including his wife Rema Unnikrishnan.

Beyond athletics, Unnikrishnan diversified sports in Attingal, forming teams in Kho-Kho, Kabaddi, Handball, Swimming, Wrestling, and more. His efforts saw athletes participating at state, national, and international levels, achieving significant victories.

Unnikrishnan’s dedication to sports and games extended to identifying and training impoverished students, enabling them to secure government jobs through sports quotas. He financially supported these students, providing essentials like team jerseys and meals, emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet for athletic performance.

He significantly contributed to Attingal’s development, founding the Sree Padmanabha Charitable Hospital and advocating for telephone subscribers’ rights. Even in later years, his vision expanded, aiming to introduce swimming lessons in every village and promoting a new game, “Liveball.”

Sreepadam Stadium stands as his enduring legacy, a testament to his dedication from the 1950s to the 1990s. It continues to nurture athletes, empowering future generations.