Today let talk about Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan Biography: Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan, widely known as C. P. Radhakrishnan, is a seasoned Indian politician, administrator, and nationalist leader who has made remarkable contributions to both Tamil Nadu and Indian politics. Known for his clean image, grassroots connect, and ability to bridge divides across party lines, he has emerged as one of the most respected figures in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). From humble beginnings in Tiruppur to becoming the Governor of Maharashtra and the NDA’s Vice-Presidential nominee in 2025, his journey reflects dedication, discipline, and integrity.
Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan Biography
Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan Early Life and Education
Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan was born on 20 October 1957 in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu. He completed his Bachelor’s in Business Administration (B.B.A.) from V. O. Chidambaram College, Madurai University, in 1978. His interest in public service started young he joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) at just 16, and soon became an active member of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the BJP’s ideological predecessor. By 1974, he was already serving on the State Executive Committee of the Jana Sangh in Tamil Nadu.
Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan Entry into Politics
Radhakrishnan rose steadily through the political ranks. His first major breakthrough came when he was elected as Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) from Coimbatore in 1998. He repeated his success in 1999, registering strong margins both times.
In Parliament, he chaired the Standing Committee on Textiles and worked on key committees dealing with Finance, Public Sector Units, and the Stock Exchange Scam investigation. His credibility as a parliamentarian grew further when he addressed the United Nations General Assembly in 2003 and became part of the first Indian parliamentary delegation to Taiwan in 2004.
Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan Leadership in Tamil Nadu
From 2004 to 2007, Radhakrishnan served as the President of BJP Tamil Nadu unit. During this tenure, he organized a 93-day Ratha Yatra covering 19,000 km, raising awareness about interlinking rivers, eradication of untouchability, counter-terrorism, uniform civil code, and anti-drug campaigns. His leadership style, rooted in grassroots mobilization, earned him respect even beyond party lines.
Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan Administrative Roles
Radhakrishnan has also served in significant administrative positions. As Chairman of the Coir Board (2016 to 2020), he achieved record export levels, bringing ₹2,532 crore in revenue. He was later appointed BJP Prabhari (in-charge) for Kerala (2020–2022), reflecting the trust the party placed in his organizational skills.
Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan Governor and National Prominence
His constitutional journey began when he became the Governor of Jharkhand in February 2023. Known for his accessibility, he toured all 24 districts within just four months of taking office. Later, he briefly held additional charges as Governor of Telangana and Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry. On 31 July 2024, he was sworn in as the Governor of Maharashtra, further solidifying his national stature. His reputation for fairness, humility, and cordial relations with leaders across parties made him a unifying figure.
C. P. Radhakrishnan Vice-Presidential Nomination
In August 2025, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) nominated C. P. Radhakrishnan as its Vice Presidential candidate. This was not just recognition of his decades-long service but also a symbolic outreach to Tamil Nadu and southern India. If elected, he would be the third Tamilian Vice President of India, after Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan and R. Venkataraman.
Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan Personal Life and Interests
C. P. Radhakrishnan is married to R. Sumathi, and the couple has two children. Apart from politics, he is an avid sports enthusiast skilled in table tennis, cricket, volleyball, and long-distance running. Known for his discipline and integrity, he is often referred to as the “Modi of Tamil Nadu.”
Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan Net Worth & Financial Profile
According to Oneindia, Radhakrishnan’s net worth is estimated at ₹64.75 crore, with assets amounting to ₹67.11 crore and liabilities totaling ₹2.37 crore. A more detailed breakdown reported by NDTV states his total movable and immovable property is ₹67.11 crore, including cash, bank deposits, insurance, agricultural land, non-agricultural land, commercial buildings, and residential property. Notably, he reportedly owns no vehicle, and his liabilities are around ₹2.37 crore. Celebrity-birthdays.com translates this to approximately USD 5 million.
Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan Key Achievements & Career
Political & Legislative Roles
Began public life early by joining the Jan Sangh’s Tamil Nadu state executive committee in 1974.
Elected to the Lok Sabha from Coimbatore twice in 1998, winning by over 150,000 votes, and again in 1999, by around 55,000 votes.
Served on influential parliamentary committees, including those on commerce, public undertakings, finance, textiles, and MP Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS).
International Representation
Addressed the 58th United Nations General Assembly on humanitarian and disaster-related coordination on 20 October 2003. Participated in the first-ever Indian parliamentary delegation to Taiwan.
Party Leadership & Grassroots Campaigns
Held the post of BJP Tamil Nadu President from 2004 to 2006 (or 2007), organizing a 93-day, 19,000-km Rath Yatra across Tamil Nadu to champion causes like interlinking rivers, anti-untouchability, anti-terrorism, and uniform civil code.
Administrative & Governance Offices
Chaired the All India Coir Board (2016–2020) under the MSME ministry, during which coir exports reportedly soared toward ₹2,532 crore or even ₹2,800 crore illustrating impressive growth. Appointed Governor of Jharkhand in February 2023, later holding additional charge as Governor of Telangana and Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry in 2024. He was Sworn in as Governor of Maharashtra on 31 July 2024, praised for his accessibility, timely action on pending matters (like legislative council nominations), and steadfast relations with leaders across party lines.
Vice Presidential Nomination
In August 2025, the NDA selected Radhakrishnan as its nominee for Vice President of India, underscoring his clean image, cross-party acceptance, and value as a unifying figure especially in strengthening ties with Tamil Nadu and southern states.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is C. P. Radhakrishnan?
C. P. Radhakrishnan is an Indian politician, senior BJP leader, and current Governor of Maharashtra. In 2025, he was nominated by the NDA as its Vice Presidential candidate.
When and where was C. P. Radhakrishnan born?
He was born on 20 October 1957 in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, India.
What is the educational qualification of C. P. Radhakrishnan?
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (B.B.A.) from V. O. Chidambaram College under Madurai University, completed in 1978.
What political positions has C. P. Radhakrishnan held?
He has served as Member of Parliament (1998, 1999), President of BJP Tamil Nadu, Chairman of the Coir Board, Governor of Jharkhand, and currently, the Governor of Maharashtra.
Who is C. P. Radhakrishnan’s wife?
He is married to R. Sumathi, and they have two children together.
Why is C. P. Radhakrishnan important in Indian politics?
He is respected for his clean image, grassroots activism, and cross-party acceptance. His Vice Presidential nomination in 2025 is also seen as a significant step to strengthen BJP’s presence in southern India.
Conclusion
C. P. Radhakrishnan’s life is an inspiring example of how dedication, discipline, and clean politics can shape a leader’s journey from grassroots activism to the highest offices of governance. His nomination for the Vice Presidency of India marks a new chapter in his decades-long career of service to the nation. With a strong southern identity and cross-party respect, he stands as a bridge between tradition and modern governance in Indian politics.
