Metal complexes of [2-(2-hydroxynaphthalen-1-ylazo)-pyridin-3-ol] are derived from 2-amino-3-hydroxypyridine and β-naphthol was synthesized and characterized by thermal, spectral and analytical tools. The ligand was reacted with Mn(II), Fe(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) in 1:2 stoichiometry. The IR spectra confirms the azo ligand coordination to metal ions via azo nitrogen and phenolic oxygen of pyridine after deprotonation. Both IR and 1HNMR spectra recorded involvement of deprotonated hydroxyl groups with proton displacement. The magnified fluorescence was shown by Mn(II) and Ni(II) complexes. None of the prepared ligands or complexes show any NLO activity with KDP as standard. The DNA cleavage and anticancerous activities done. The influence of zinc chelates on cure characteristics of rubber compounds was estimated based on rheometer measurements. The ligand and metal complexes are tested in vitro against some bacteria and fungi species. The antioxidant activities, DNA cleavage and anticancerous activities done. Ligand and its complexes catalysed cleavage of DNA.