Who is CP Radhakrishnan? India’s political landscape is filled with fascinating stories, and one name that’s been making waves recently is CP Radhakrishnan. As the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) announced him as their candidate for the 2025 Vice Presidential election, many are curious about this seasoned politician. So, who exactly is CP Radhakrishnan? Let’s dive into his life, career, and what makes him a prominent figure in Indian politics today.
Table of Contents
Early Life and Roots in Tamil Nadu
Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan, popularly known as CP Radhakrishnan, was born on October 20, 1957, in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu. Growing up in a modest family, he was the son of C.K. Ponnusamy and K. Janaki, and his early years were shaped by the vibrant culture of Tamil Nadu’s Kongu Vellalar Gounder community. Radhakrishnan wasn’t just book-smart; he was a well-rounded individual with a passion for sports.
- Education: He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from V.O. Chidambaram College in Thoothukudi.
- Sports Enthusiast: A college champion in table tennis, he also enjoyed cricket, volleyball, and long-distance running.
- Early Activism: At just 16, he joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), laying the foundation for his lifelong commitment to public service.
His early involvement with the RSS and later the Bharatiya Jana Sangh marked the beginning of a political journey that would span over four decades.
Political Rise with the BJP
Radhakrishnan’s political career took off in the 1970s when he became a State Executive Committee member of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh in 1974. His dedication to grassroots activism and ideological alignment with the BJP (formed in 1980 from the Jana Sangh) helped him rise through the ranks. By 1996, he was the BJP Tamil Nadu State Secretary, and his big break came in 1998 when he was elected to the Lok Sabha from Coimbatore.
- Lok Sabha Victories: Won the Coimbatore seat in 1998 and 1999, defeating strong opponents with margins of 150,000 and 55,000 votes, respectively.
- Parliamentary Roles: Chaired the Standing Committee on Textiles and served on committees for Finance, Public Sector Undertakings, and the Stock Exchange Scam investigation.
His electoral success in Tamil Nadu, a state where the BJP historically struggled, showcased his ability to connect with voters, especially after the 1998 Coimbatore bombings, which boosted the party’s regional presence.
Leadership and Grassroots Campaigns
Radhakrishnan’s leadership shone during his tenure as Tamil Nadu BJP President from 2004 to 2007. He undertook a massive 19,000-km, 93-day Rath Yatra across the state, addressing critical issues that resonated with the masses. This campaign wasn’t just about politics; it was about sparking conversations on social and environmental challenges.
- Key Campaign Issues: Advocated for linking Indian rivers, eradicating untouchability, fighting terrorism, and implementing a uniform civil code.
- Textile Industry Impact: As a textile exporter from Tiruppur, he pioneered new markets, boosting the local economy.
- Coir Board Chairman: From 2016 to 2020, he led the Coir Board, achieving record exports of ₹2,532 crore.
His ability to blend grassroots activism with strategic leadership earned him the nickname “Vajpayee of Coimbatore” for his clean image and mass appeal.
Gubernatorial Roles and National Presence
In recent years, Radhakrishnan has taken on significant constitutional roles. Appointed Governor of Jharkhand in February 2023, he traveled across all 24 districts in just four months, engaging with citizens and officials. In 2024, he took on additional responsibilities as Governor of Telangana and Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry. By July 31, 2024, he was sworn in as the Governor of Maharashtra, a role he continues to hold.
His gubernatorial stints highlight his administrative acumen and ability to handle complex responsibilities across diverse states. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised his “dedication, humility, and intellect,” noting his focus on empowering the marginalized.
Vice Presidential Candidacy and Legacy
On August 17, 2025, BJP chief JP Nadda announced Radhakrishnan as the NDA’s Vice Presidential candidate, following Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation due to health reasons. With the election set for September 9, Radhakrishnan’s nomination is seen as a strategic move to strengthen the BJP’s presence in South India, especially with Tamil Nadu and Kerala polls approaching in 2026.
- Global Exposure: Represented India at the UN General Assembly in 2004 and was part of the first parliamentary delegation to Taiwan.
- Personal Life: Married to R. Sumathi since 1985, he has two children and enjoys traveling, having visited countries across Europe, Asia, and North America.
Radhakrishnan’s journey from a small-town RSS volunteer to a Vice Presidential nominee is a testament to his resilience and commitment. Whether he wins the election or not, his legacy as a leader who bridges grassroots activism with high office is already cemented.
In a political career spanning over 40 years, CP Radhakrishnan has worn many hats—MP, state president, governor, and now a Vice Presidential hopeful. His story is one of dedication, connecting with people, and leaving a mark wherever he goes. As India watches the Vice Presidential race, Radhakrishnan’s name is one to remember.