Dr. M. Kunhaman (1939-2023) was an Indian economist, academician, and social activist who made contributions to the fields of development economics, tribal economy, and Dalit empowerment.

Born in Vadanamkurussi of Palakkad District to couples Cheron and Ayyappan, his childhood was marked by poverty and caste persecution. Born into a marginalized Dalit community in Kerala, Dr. Kunhaman faced numerous challenges throughout his life. He earnd a Ph.D. in Economics from Calicut University in 1974.

Dr. Kunhaman's academic career spanned over four decades, during which he held esteemed positions at various universities and institutions, including the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, the University of Calicut, and the University of Kerala. His research focused on the economic development of marginalized communities, particularly tribal groups and Dalits. He explored the factors that hindered their progress and proposed strategies for their upliftment.

Beyond academia, Dr. Kunhaman was a passionate social activist, actively involved in various movements for social justice and Dalit empowerment. He was a vocal critic of caste discrimination and advocated for equal opportunities for all citizens. His writings and speeches inspired generations of activists and contributed to the growing awareness of social inequalities in India.[according to whom?]

Dr. Kunhaman received numerous awards and honors, including the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award for Autobiography in 2021.