D. Unnikrishnan
September 13, 1932 – July 25, 2024
With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of D. Unnikrishnan, a titan in the realm of sports, a dedicated public servant, and a philanthropist. His life was an extraordinary tapestry woven with passion, determination, and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of his community.
Born in Attingal on September 13, 1932, Unnikrishnan’s love for sports ignited early, finding expression in athletics, football, hockey, and volleyball during his formative years at St. Xavier’s, Tirunelveli, and S.N College, Kollam.
A pivotal moment arrived in 1952 when, at the tender age of 20, he established the Attingal Amateur Athletic Association (AAAA). This marked the beginning of his lifelong mission to cultivate a sports-loving culture in Attingal. His relentless pursuit led to the acquisition of land for the Sreepadam Stadium, a dream realized with the generous support of Maharajah Sri Chithira Thirunal.
As a respected civil servant (Retired Assistant Director of State Treasury), Unnikrishnan dedicated his free time to nurturing young talent and promoting various sports. His tireless efforts, championed by Godavarma Raja, culminated in the transformation of 8 1/2 acres of cashew plantations into the world-class Sreepadam Stadium, finished with a 200m track and football field within a few years since receiving the land as a gift from the Maharajah Sri Chithira Thirunal of Travancore.
The Sri Chithra Coaching School, his brainchild, produced many sporting champions, including his own wife, Rema Unnikrishnan. His vision extended to Kho-Kho, Kabaddi, Handball, Swimming, Wrestling, and more, ensuring Attingal’s athletes graced state, national, and international platforms.
Unnikrishnan identified and supported several financially challenged students, providing them with opportunities to excel in sports and secure government jobs. His belief in the transformative power of sports and nutrition led him to offer essential support, including jerseys, meals, training and guidance.
Unnikrishnan’s influence extended far beyond the sports arena. He founded the Sree Padmanabha Charitable Hospital, championed the rights of telephone subscribers, campaigned for rationalizing the retirement age of State employees at par with the Central government employees. He envisioned a future where swimming was accessible to all and founded a 3-touch version of soccer named “Liveball”
His legacy lives on in the magnificent Sreepadam Stadium, a testament to his tireless efforts from the 1950s to the 1990s. It continues to be a nurturing ground for budding athletes, carrying on his vision for a healthier, more vibrant Attingal.
D. Unnikrishnan’s passing leaves an irreplaceable void. His memory will forever inspire generations to come
Surviving Family
He is survived by his beloved wife, Rema Unnikrishnan; son, Girija Vallabha Raja Kumar (Giri) and daughter-in-law, Priya Vijayan; daughter, Uma Aswathy Pravas and son-in-law, Pravas Prabhakaran. He will be deeply missed by his cherished grandchildren, Sidharth Pravas and Gia Cannaught.
Funeral and Memorial Arrangements
The funeral of Shri. D. Unnikrishnan was held on July 27, 2024, at his residence, Chithra Jyothy, MMVRA 79.
A Sanchayanam ceremony was conducted on July 31, 2024, at 8:30 AM IST.
A memorial gathering to honor Shri. D. Unnikrishnan was held on August 1st, 2024, at 5:00 PM IST at the Teacher’s Hall, opposite Sri Muthumari Amman Kovil, Palace Road, Attingal.
The 16th-day ceremonies will be observed on August 10 and 11, 2024, at the residence.
The family invites friends, relatives, and well-wishers to join them in celebrating the life of Shri. D. Unnikrishnan on August 11, 2024, at 11:00 AM IST.
Attingal Amateur Athletic Association 