EMS Namboodiripad (1909-1998) was a leader of the communist movement in India, former Chief Minister of Kerala, and a founder of the Communist Party of India (Marxist). He was a prolific writer, whose insights on Marxist theory, the international communist movement, caste, women's struggle, and national liberation, continue to shape theoretical debates and practical activity in our day. This presentation will introduce his life, in its historical and political context.