He completed his primary education in Mathikere, which was then in the outskirts of Bangalore city and then moved on to agriculture due to paucity of funds.

In renovating the Ashram of Yogi Narayana Yatindra, the space provided sanctuary to a huge number of devotees along with the provision of free food every day.

The industries he promoted include: Being a multi-faceted personality with a political opinion, Ramaiah developed a deep interest in journalism.

The setting up of M. S. Ramaiah Charities Trust led to the assistance of impecunious and meritorious students to pursue a bright career.

Realising the importance of development in any society, Ramaiah was responsible for the construction of housing facilities for poor and middle-class families to live at reasonable and affordable prices.