Who Was KV Rabiya? PM Modi Mourns Death Of Kerala’s Literacy Icon & Padma Shri Awardee

KV Rabiya, Kerala’s inspiring literacy devotee and Padma Shri awardee, passed away on Sunday at 59 after battling illness and cancer, her family confirmed. A fearless advocate for education, Rabiya dedicated her life to uplifting marginalised communities despite her own challenges.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourned her loss, posting on X (formerly Twitter), “Pained by the passing away of Padma Shri awardee, KV Rabiya Ji. Her pioneering work in improving literacy will always be remembered. Her courage and determination, particularly the manner in which she battled polio, were also very inspiring. My thoughts are with her family and admirers in this hour of grief.”

Check PM post below:

Pained by the passing away of Padma Shri awardee, KV Rabiya Ji. Her pioneering work in improving literacy will always be remembered. Her courage and determination, particularly the manner in which she battled polio, was also very inspiring. My thoughts are with her family and…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 5, 2025

Who was KV Rabiya?

Born in 1966 in Malappuram, Rabiya was affected by polio at 14, confining her to a wheelchair. But her spirit remained undeterred. She started teaching literacy from her home in the early 1990s, eventually drawing hundreds of learners.

She became an instructor for Kerala’s state literacy mission and founded Chalanam Charitable Society in 1994, working on disability rights, women’s education, and social reform.

Saddened by the demise of Padma Shri awardee, KV Rabiya Ji. A life dedicated to service and betterment of society, her legacy will continue to inspire generations. Heartfelt condolences to her family and her admirers. pic.twitter.com/Av4Rd6M03s

— Vinod Tawde (@TawdeVinod) May 5, 2025

Her work earned numerous honours, including the National Youth Award, UNDP recognition, and the Kerala State Literacy Samiti Award. In 2022, she was conferred the Padma Shri for her tireless service.

Saddened to hear about the passing of Padma Shri K. V. Rabiya, a staunch literacy advocate, dedicated social worker, and a symbol of unwavering will.

Rabiya, who battled polio and later cancer, rose to become a leading figure in Kerala’s literacy movement, reaching thousands,… pic.twitter.com/nKSDUGAABy

— Rajeev Chandrasekhar (@RajeevRC_X) May 4, 2025

Even after a cancer diagnosis in 2000 and a debilitating spinal injury in 2004, Rabiya continued her mission, authoring four books, including her acclaimed autobiography “Swapnangalku Chirakukalundu” (Dreams Have Wings).

Rabiya leaves behind a powerful legacy of resilience, compassion, and a lifelong fight for education and empowerment.

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