The city of Vizianagaram came together on Friday, May 1, 2026, to celebrate the birth anniversary of Pusapati Vijayarama Gajapathi Raju, better known as P.V.G. Raju. As the last titular Maharaja of the Vizianagaram princely state and the visionary founder of the MANSAS Trust, Raju’s legacy remains deeply woven into the educational and social fabric of the region.
A Life Dedicated to Public Service
During the commemorative event organized by the Kshatriya Parishad, speakers highlighted Raju’s transition from a royal figure to a dedicated public servant. Despite his aristocratic roots, he was a staunch advocate for socialist ideals and democratic values, ultimately serving as a Member of Parliament and a minister in the state government. His life’s work was defined by the belief that wealth and influence should be channeled toward the betterment of the common citizen.
Transforming Education via MANSAS Trust
Perhaps his most enduring achievement was the establishment of the Maharaja Alak Narayan Society of Arts and Science (MANSAS) Trust. Founded in memory of his father, the trust was gifted with vast tracts of land and resources to ensure that quality education was accessible to all, regardless of their financial standing. Today, the institutions under this trust continue to serve thousands of students, making Vizianagaram a prominent educational hub in Andhra Pradesh.
Community Leaders Pay Respects
Members of the Kshatriya Parishad and local dignitaries gathered to offer floral tributes to the late leader. Speakers at the event noted that Raju’s decision to donate his private properties for educational purposes was an act of unparalleled philanthropy in the post-independence era. They urged the younger generation to draw inspiration from his humility and his commitment to social justice.
The anniversary served as a poignant reminder of a leader who chose to dismantle the walls of royalty to build schools and colleges, ensuring that his real legacy would be the enlightenment of his people rather than the titles of his past.
