Shri. Mathai Manjooran, the founder of Kerala Socialist Party and an accomplished editor, was born in 1912 as the son of Shri. Mathew.

While a matriculate student, he had actively participated in the Boycott of Simon Commission. Later, graduating from Madras University in 1933, he had been jailed for eight months for participating in the Kisan Labour movement. He was also cited as an accused in the famous Kizhariyoor Bomb case of 1942.

Initially taking part in Congress organisational work, he later joined Congress Socialist Party, and had even to go underground for sometime. He had also been active in the Cochin Praja Mandalam, and leader of its left faction. Forming the KSP in 1947, he was imprisoned several times, and was prohibited from entering erstwhile Travancore State on two occasions. He also took active part in the Aikya Kerala Movement.

Shri. Manjooran became elected to the 3rd KLA from Madayi constituency as Kerala Socialist party member. In the 4th Ministry under the Chief Ministership of Shri. E.M.S. Namboodirippad, he handled the portfolio of Labour from 6..3..1967 to 1..11..1969.

Shri. Mathai Manjooran had also served as a member of Rajya Sabha , previously, from 1952 to 1954.

He was also editor of the dailies, 'Light of Kerala', 'Kerala Prakasam' and 'Socialist weekly' , and has also authored one book Prakasathilekku, a 3 volume Life Sketch of Great Philosophers.

Shri Mathai Manjooran expired on 14..1..1970, while serving as Member.
The Assembly paid its homage to him on 15..1..1970.