Issued by India

Issued on Mar 25, 2026

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on these distinguished institutions in recognition of their exemplary contribution to women’s education and nation-building. The stamp seeks to honour their enduring legacy of academic excellence, empowerment, and social transformation, which continues to inspire generations across the country.

Credits :
Stamps/Miniature Sheet/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Shri Kamleshwar Singh

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise (4)

Stamps Printed : 100140 (4)

Miniature Sheets Printed : 111000

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Delhi holds a distinguished position as one of India’s foremost centers of education, hosting a wide network of premier universities, research institutions, and colleges that attract students from across the country and abroad. Within this vibrant academic landscape, various colleges of Delhi have played a transformative role in advancing women’s education. Among them, some women’s colleges of Delhi – Miranda House, Lady Shri Ram College for Women, Kamala Nehru College, and Gargi College – have made notable contributions. Renowned for academic excellence, vibrant intellectual culture, and an emphasis on holistic development, these institutions reflect Delhi’s enduring significance as a hub of inclusive and progressive higher education for women in India.
• Miranda House is a renowned institution at the forefront of women’s education in India. Established on March 7, 1948, under the visionary leadership of Sir Maurice Gwyer, the College has consistently upheld the highest standards of academic excellence. Nationally recognized for its contributions to higher education, it has secured a top position among colleges in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) for nine consecutive years. Miranda House holds an A++ grade from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) and has been conferred the prestigious Star College status by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India.
• Lady Shri Ram College for Women, established in 1956 by Sir Shri Ram in memory of his wife, is one of India’s premier institutions of higher learning. Located on a green fifteen-acre campus in Lajpat Nagar, South Delhi, the College is known for its unwavering commitment to academic excellence and women’s empowerment. Accredited with an A++ grade by NAAC, it consistently ranks among the top colleges in the country. Over the decades, LSR has built a legacy of intellectual rigor, social consciousness, diversity, and inclusion, inspiring generations of women to become leaders and changemakers.
• Kamala Nehru College is a vibrant center of learning where academic excellence and cultural vitality coexist. The College fosters intellectual curiosity and critical engagement with contemporary issues while promoting holistic development through dedicated faculty mentorship. Its culturally dynamic campus – enriched by literary circles, theatre groups, dance societies, and music ensembles – encourages creativity, solidarity, and appreciation of heritage. With its inclusive ethos, the College nurtures confidence, resilience, and leadership among women.
• Gargi College, Established in 1967, is a distinguished women’s institution under the University of Delhi offering programmes in Arts, Commerce, Science, and Education. Named after the Vedic philosopher Gargi Vachaknavi, the College embodies intellectual courage and inquiry. Accredited with an ‘A+’ grade by NAAC, it promotes excellence in teaching, research, and innovation through various academic and skill-development initiatives, inspiring women to lead with knowledge, compassion, and vision while contributing meaningfully to society.
• Text : Based on the content provided by the above mentioned colleges.

The post Women’s Colleges of Delhi appeared first on iStampGallery.

Issued by India

Issued on Nov 7, 2025

Issued for : It is an honor for the Department of Posts to release a Commemorative Postage Stamp on 150 years of Vande Mataram, celebrating its enduring legacy as a hymn of patriotism and a unifying force that continues to inspire generations of Indians.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Shri Sankha Samanta

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 303300

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• The song Vande Mataram was composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in the mid-1870s, a time when India’s freedom struggle was gaining momentum. It is believed that the song was composed during the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Navami on 7^th November 1875. It first appeared in Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s literary journal Bangadarshan and was later included in his novel Anandamath (1882).
• The song was written during a period of growing national consciousness and it invoked the Motherland as a symbol of strength, prosperity, and divinity, giving poetic expression to India’s awakening spirit of unity and self-respect. The song became popular among the masses after Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore gave it voice at the 1896 session of the Indian National Congress. The song became a rallying cry of the Swadeshi Movement following the partition of Bengal in 1905, uniting people across regions and inspiring countless patriots. The song’s emotional and spiritual resonance made it an enduring symbol of India’s nationalist movement. During the freedom struggle, Vande Mataram became a source of collective inspiration, instilling in the people a deep sense of patriotism and cultural pride. It served as a unifying anthem that brought together countless Indians in their quest for independence and national dignity.
• On 24^th January 1950, while announcing the adoption of the Constitution, Dr Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, declared that Vande Mataram, which had played a historic role in the freedom struggle, would be honoured as the National Song. Since then, the song has been a symbol of national pride, unity, and the indomitable spirit of India’s freedom and cultural heritage.
• As the nation marks the 150^th anniversary of Vande Mataram in 2025, nationwide celebrations are being organised to commemorate its legacy and reaffirm the timeless ideals of unity, sacrifice, and love for the Motherland.
• Text : As per the content provided by the Ministry of Culture.

The post 150 Years of Vande Mataram appeared first on iStampGallery.

Issued by India

Issued on Oct 1, 2025

Issued for : The Department of Posts is proud to release a commemorative postage stamp marking the Glorious 100 years of Military Nursing Service in India. This special issue pays tribute to the unwavering dedication, compassion and courage of military nurses who have selflessly served the nation.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Ms. Nenu Gupta

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 303115

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• The history of the Military Nursing Service (MNS) in India is a tale of unyielding dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment. For a century, these valiant caregivers have played a pivotal role in the Armed Forces Health Care systems, extending their Services to soldiers, their families, and various humanitarian efforts.
• The Military Nursing Service was the earliest type of nursing to evolve in the late 19^th Century. Modern nursing was founded after the Crimean War between Turkey and Russia in 1854-1856. The Army Nursing Service was established in 1888. In 1896, the Nursing Service was renamed as Indian Army Nursing Service. In 1914, 473 Indian nurses were appointed during World War I, who went all over with the Indian soldiers and rendered exceptional services. On 1^st October 1926, the permanent Nursing Service came into being with 55 nurses. During World War II, Indian nurses were at the war front with courage and valour; many nurses were taken Prisoners of War and many laid down their lives for the country. On 15^th September 1943, an ordinance was promulgated to constitute a force to be called the Military Nursing Service (India) as part of the Armed Forces of India.
• The terms and conditions for the grant of regular commission in the MNS were laid by Army Instruction 274/50 on 12 August 1950. The cadre strength of service has grown from 1110 to 5368. The Officers of Military Nursing Service undergo further specialisation through Post Basic (PB) BSc, MSc and PB Diploma in clinical specialities. The Military Nursing Service is a Cadre of highly skilled, competent officers.
• The integration of Military Hospitals and the introduction of modern medical practices enhanced the role of military nurses. The Military Nursing Service has a rich history of dedication and exemplary service in both war and peace. The 1962 Sino-Indian War, 1971 Indo-Pak War and Kargil War underscored the pivotal role of the Military Nursing Service in times of conflict, demonstrating exceptional courage and valour.
• Military Nursing Officers participated in UN Peacekeeping Missions in Congo, Lebanon, South Sudan and in friendly foreign hospitals, earning respect and admiration on the global stage. They also played a significant role in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Care of war-wounded patients in times of agony and despair requires strong determination. Hence, there was a requirement to prepare nurses for the Army. Accordingly, nurses were trained in selected civil hospitals. The Government of India sanctioned two schools of Nursing in 1950 in Pune and Delhi. The schools were gradually upgraded to the College of Nursing and at present, there are six Colleges of Nursing across the country in Delhi, Pune, Kolkata, Bangalore, Mumbai and Lucknow. These institutions provide skill-based education for BSc Nursing, Master’s in Nursing Subjects and Post Basic (PB) diploma in 13 clinical specialities.
• The dedication and devotion to duty exhibited by the officers of the Military Nursing Service have been widely recognised. They have received distinguished honours such as the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Sena Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal, and Mention in Despatches, along with civilian awards like the Sarojini Khosla Nightingale Award, Nalwa Medal, and Mahila Shiromani Award.
• On January 26, 2024, history was made when 144 Military Nursing Service officers marched on Kartavya Path during the Republic Day Parade as part of the All-Women Contingent of the Armed Forces Medical Services.
• Text : Referenced from content provided by the Proponent.

The post Indian Military Nursing Service appeared first on iStampGallery.

Issued by India

Issued on Jul 24, 2025

Issued for : The Department of Posts is proud to release a commemorative postage stamp in honour of Queen Chennabhairadevi, the fearless queen who stood her ground against foreign invasions and led with wisdom, strength, and compassion. This stamp is a tribute to her unmatched legacy and a reminder of women’s powerful role in shaping our history.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Sh. Anuj Kumar

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 303650

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Chennabhairadevi

Born on 16^th century at Bhatkal, Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka, India

Died on 17^th century at Keladi, Sagara taluk, Karnataka, India

About : 

• In the history of the entire Indian subcontinent, Queen Chennabhairadevi, titled Raina–Da Pimenta (Queen of Pepper), ruled for the longest period. A courageous woman from the Kannada land, she ruled for an exceptionally long time and faced historical adversities, making her the great queen of Gerusoppa, Karnataka.
• From 1552 to 1606, Queen Chennabhairadevi ruled the coastal and Malnad regions, stretching from Trasi in Karnataka to the Goa border and from the Western Sea to the highlands of Avinahalli. She was the ruler of the twin states of Haduvalli and Gerusoppa. Initially, she took over the administration of Haduvalli under the Vijayanagara emperors as Mahamandaleshwari. Later, the Vijayanagara emperors entrusted her with the administration of Gerusoppa, which was previously ruled by her maternal uncle. At that time, she was only eighteen years old. She received her early education at the Ghatikasthana of Haduvalli and trained in warfare in the coastal region and in naval combat in Kerala.
• Despite her kingdom being surrounded by enemies on multiple fronts, she neither feared nor hesitated. While the rulers of Keladi, Bilagi, and the Portuguese of Goa were hostile to her, the Honneya Kambali rulers, the Bhairarasas of Karkala, and the Zamorins of Kerala maintained friendly relations with her. She even made a treaty with the Sultan of Bijapur and maintained a harmonious relationship with the Vijayanagara emperors. She never initiated aggression, but never bowed to invaders. In 1558 and again in 1569–70, she defeated the Portuguese forces that invaded Honnavar. She kept the Keladi rulers in check and, by the end of 1558, even defeated them in a direct battle. Under her rule, her kingdom was prosperous, secure, and inclusive. People of various religions, castes, and professions lived together in harmony.
• She was skilled in commerce. Initially, black pepper was just a wild forest product, but she introduced it as a cultivated crop to the farmers of the Malnad and coastal regions. She established a system to export it in large quantities abroad. Despite politically opposing the Portuguese, she cleverly engaged in commercial ties with them, exporting rice, pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, jaggery, betel nuts, sandalwood, ginger, cloves, and ivory. Because of this, Dr Hannah Chapelle Wojciechowski opined that the Portuguese honoured her with the title Raina-Da Pimenta (The Pepper Queen).
• In the 1560s, when the Portuguese established the Inquisition Court in Goa and intensified forced conversions, they committed atrocities against non-Christian communities like the Saraswats, Kharvis, and fishermen, rendering them destitute and exiling them. Queen Chennabhairadevi provided shelter to such oppressed groups, utilised their professional skills to enhance her kingdom’s economy, and ensured they had a livelihood.
• After the fall of the Vijayanagara Empire in 1564, when it attempted a revival in Penukonda, Queen Chennabhairadevi provided resources for its resurgence. The Portuguese were secretly intimidated by her. Hence, historical records reveal a letter from the Portuguese king to the governor of Goa instructing him to deal with her with “humility, prudence, and diplomatic wisdom.”
• More than five centuries ago, she established a wealthy and stable kingdom through foreign trade and diplomatic expertise and ruled it for over half a century.
• Text : Based on information provided by the proponent.

The post Rani Chennabhairadevi appeared first on iStampGallery.

Issued by India

Issued on May 31, 2025

Issued for : The Department of Posts is proud to release a Commemorative Postage Stamp on the 300^th Birth Anniversary of Ahilya Bai Holkar.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Sh Anuj Kumar

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 202800

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Ahilyabai Holkar

Born on 31 May, 1725 at Chondi, Maratha Empire [now in Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra, India]

Died on 13 Aug, 1795 at Rajwada, Indore, Indore State, Maratha Empire [now in Madhya Pradesh, India]

About : 

• Born in 1725 in Chondi, Maharashtra, Ahilya Bai Holkar is one of the most revered figures in Indian history, known for her leadership and contributions to the cultural and economic development of her kingdom. As queen of Malwa from 1767 to 1795, her reign marked a golden era of prosperity, justice, and artistic growth.
• Ahilya Bai was born into a humble family of the Deshmukh clan. Her father, Mankoji Shinde, served as a village headman, enabling her to receive a good education and develop an early interest in governance. At the age of 19, she married Khanderao Holkar, son of Malhar Rao Holkar, founder of the Holkar dynasty.
• Widowed in 1754 with a young daughter after her husband’s death in battle, Ahilya Bai showed remarkable strength. Her composure impressed her father-in-law, Malhar Rao Holkar, who recognised her leadership potential and began mentoring her in administration and public affairs.
• Following Malhar Rao’s death in 1766, Ahilya Bai became the de facto ruler of Malwa. Formally ascending the throne in 1767, she faced political instability and threats from rival states and the British East India Company. Though her rise was unprecedented for a woman in a male-dominated society, she quickly proved her capabilities.
• Ahilya Bai ensured fair governance and prioritised the welfare of her subjects. Her just rule earned her widespread admiration and solidified her place as a beloved monarch. She handled affairs of state with wisdom, maintained peace, and promoted inclusive justice.
• Under her leadership, Malwa prospered both economically and culturally. She invested in infrastructure, commissioning roads, forts, and temples that boosted trade and connectivity. Her architectural contributions include the Maheshwar Fort and temples built along the banks of the Narmada River, many of which still stand today.
• Ahilya Bai was a great patron of the arts. She encouraged music, dance, and literature, fostering cultural growth. Her court became a hub for scholars and artists, sparking a cultural renaissance. Known for her love of poetry, she often took part in literary gatherings and supported creative expression.
• Her commitment to social welfare was evident in the institutions she established, including hospitals and schools that promoted healthcare and education. She believed in the transformative power of education, especially for women, and her efforts laid a foundation for future progress in this area.
• A deeply spiritual leader who followed Hindu principles, Ahilya Bai also practised religious tolerance. She welcomed scholars and religious leaders from various faiths to her court, promoting dialogue and unity among her diverse subjects. Her policies strengthened social harmony and reflected her inclusive vision.
• Among her most notable contributions was the construction of temples and ghats along the Narmada River. She believed that spiritual access should be open to all, regardless of caste or creed. Her initiatives to provide clean drinking water and support agriculture further demonstrated her care for everyday needs.
• Despite challenges, including the growing influence of the British East India Company, Ahilya Bai navigated political tensions with diplomacy and strategic alliances. Her ability to protect her kingdom while preserving its independence was a testament to her political acumen.
• Ahilya Bai Holkar passed away on 13 August 1795. Her death marked the end of a remarkable chapter in Indian history, but her legacy lived on. She is remembered as a visionary ruler who embodied courage, wisdom, and compassion. Her reign not only transformed Malwa but also challenged the limitations placed on women in leadership.
• In modern India, Ahilya Bai is celebrated as a symbol of empowerment. Her story continues to inspire generations of women striving for recognition and equality.
• Ahilya Bai Holkar’s reign stands as a powerful example of visionary leadership, cultural renaissance, and social commitment. She broke barriers and redefined the role of women in Indian public life. Her contributions remain deeply etched in the nation’s memory, and her name continues to evoke respect and admiration.
• Text : Referenced from content provided by Ministry of Culture.

The post Ahilya Bai Holkar 2025 appeared first on iStampGallery.

Issued by India

Issued on May 1, 2025

Issued for : Department of Posts is proud to release Miniature Sheet to celebrate the birth centenary of these legends of Indian cinema.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Sh. Suresh Kumar

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Miniature Sheet Printed : 211200

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : P. Bhanumathi Ramakrishna

Born on 7 Sep, 1925 at Doddavaram, Madras Presidency, British India [now Andhra Pradesh, India]

Died on 24 Dec, 2005 at Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

About : 

• India is celebrating birth centenary of five iconic figures who shaped the golden era of Indian cinema, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting is set to pay an enduring tribute to their rich legacy. This momentous occasion will be marked at the first edition of the World Audio Video & Entertainment Summit (WAVES-2025), scheduled from 01^st to 04^th May 2025 in Mumbai — the heartland of India’s entertainment industry.
• The Summit, envisioned as a global confluence of creators, storytellers, policy makers, and innovators from the world of audio-visual and entertainment arts, opens on 01^st May 2025 with a grand inaugural ceremony. As a centerpiece of the inaugural event, the Government of India releases Commemorative Postage Stamp honoring five legendary figures of Indian cinema — Shri Guru Dutt, Shri Ritwik Ghatak, Shri Salil Chowdhury, Shri Raj Khosla, and Ms. P. Bhanumathi — on the occasion of their birth centenaries.
• This rare tribute underscores the nation’s deep appreciation for these iconic personalities whose timeless contributions have left an indelible mark on Indian and global cinematic traditions.
  • P. Bhanumathi: A trailblazer in every sense, P. Bhanumathi was a multi-talented powerhouse whose contributions transformed South Indian cinema. An accomplished actress, singer, director, and writer, she broke barriers at a time when female voices were rarely heard behind the camera. Starring in numerous Telugu and Tamil films, Bhanumati brought strength, grace, and complexity to her roles. As one of India’s first female film directors, she tackled bold social themes and established a commanding presence on and off screen. Her artistic courage and pioneering spirit continue to inspire generations of women in Indian cinema, making her a beacon of empowerment and excellence.
• Text : Referenced from content provided by Proponent.

The post P. Bhanumathi appeared first on iStampGallery.

Issued by India

Issued on Mar 25, 2025

Issued for : The Department of Posts is pleased to issue commemorative postage stamp on Mata Karma.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Ms. Himani

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 305300

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Karma Devi

Born on 12 April, 1016 at Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Died on 27 Mar, 1064

About : 

• Mata Karma was an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna whose life is a symbol of devotion, courage, and social service. Her life inspires us to fight against various social evils like untouchability and conservatism while promoting unity and harmony in society.
• Mata Karma was born on April 12, 1016, in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh to Ramshah and Leelavati who were deeply religious and philanthropic. They had unwavering faith in Lord Krishna and spent their days immersed in devotion and service. Since childhood, Karma was drawn towards devotion to Lord Krishna and offered her prayers with immense reverence.
• Mata Karma was married to Chaturbhuj Shah. After his death, she resolved to look after her son. After some time, she arranged the marriage of her elder son and, entrusting her family and business responsibilities to him, embarked on a journey to seek the blessings of Lord Krishna.
• During her journey, Mata Karma visited Nagari and Sihava in Chhattisgarh, where she took blessings of saints and proceeded on her journey to Jagannath Puri, passing through Rajim.
• In Rajim, she met a member of the Sarathi community. The people of this community held her in great reverence and invited her to their home. Mata Karma sat on a platform in their village and preached the message of devotion. Afterward, she took a boat to travel towards Puri.
• It is said that upon reaching Puri, the temple servants asked her to cook khichdi (a traditional dish), and Lord Krishna accepted the khichdi. This event established the tradition of offering khichdi to Lord Krishna.
• Mata Karma spent four years of her life in devotion to lord Jagannath. Eventually on March 27, 1064 (Vikram Samvat 1121), Mata Karma had a vision of Lord Krishna and left her mortal body, merging into the heart of God.
• Mata Karma’s life is an exceptional example of devotion, courage, and social service. She devoted herself entirely to Lord Krishna while also striving to bring about social reforms. Mata Karma was a remarkable example of feminine power, demonstrating through her life that women can guide society in the right direction.
• Through her efforts to fight against social evils, Mata Karma promoted unity, kindness, and compassion. She showed that by embracing the divine with an open heart, one can not only transform their own life but can also influence society positively. Her legacy as a saintly figure, a social reformer, and a devoted follower of Lord Krishna remains strong and revered even today.
• Text : Referenced from content provided by Proponent.

The post Mata Karma appeared first on iStampGallery.

Issued by India

Issued on Oct 23, 2024

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue Commemorative Postage Stamp on 200 years of Kittur Vijayotsava and salutes the legacy of Queen Channamma and her steadfast commitment to freedom.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Sh. Brahm Prakash

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 303850

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Kittur, formerly known as ‘Geejaganahalli’ became renowned as the seat of power for the Kittur kings between 1585 and 1824 A.D. The principality was founded by brothers Hiremalla Shetty and Chikkamalla Shetty, who were gifted the Kittur area by Adilshahi, the king of Bijapur, in recognition of their valor and service.
• Initially, the capital was located in Sampagaon, and Kittur was governed by 12 notable kings, with Allappagouda Desai, Mudimallappagouda Desai, and Mallasarja Desai being the most prominent. Under Allappagouda’s rule, Kittur’s fort and palace were constructed, establishing it as a significant center.
• King Mallasarja (1782-1816 A.D.) brought great fame to Kittur. However, his achievements drew the envy of Baji Rao II, the Peshwa of Pune, who conspired to detain him, leading to Mallasarja’s untimely death in 1816. Queen Channamma, his second wife, took on the reins of administration after the death of Shivalinga Rudrasarja, the last king.
• The Struggle Against British Rule
  • The British began to interfere in Kittur’s administration after Shivalinga’s death in 1824. Collector Thackeray’s rude conduct and seizure of the treasury sparked Queen Channamma’s defiance. On October 23, 1824, in a historic battle, her forces defeated the British, resulting in Thackeray’s death at the hands of Amatur Balappa, a brave bodyguard.
  • However, following negotiations that failed, the British launched a massive attack on Kittur on December 3, 1824. After three days of fierce fighting, the Kittur army was betrayed and ultimately defeated. Queen Channamma was captured and imprisoned at Bailahongal Fort, where she passed away on February 2, 1829. Her indomitable spirit and resistance made her a pioneering figure in India’s struggle for independence, earning her the title “Pole Star of Indian Independence.”
• Legacy of Resistance
  • Even after her defeat, Queen Channamma’s legacy inspired further uprisings. Loyalists like Sangolli Rayanna led significant rebellions against British rule. Despite facing severe reprisals, including executions, their efforts showcased the undying patriotism and courage that characterized Kittur’s fight for freedom.
• Kittur Palace and Monuments
  • The Kittur Fort and Palace, built between 1660 and 1691 A.D. during Allappagouda Desai’s reign, are architectural marvels, although the British later demolished much of the palace. Today, the ruins provide a glimpse into its grandeur, featuring guest rooms, a Darbar hall, and unique water supply systems, including copper pipes and stone tanks.
• Text : Referenced from content provided by Proponent.

The post Kittur Vijayotsava appeared first on iStampGallery.

Issued by India

Issued on Dec 15, 2023

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue Commemorative Postage Stamp on Rani Abbakka Devi and salutes her valour and bravery, an everlasting inspiration for every Indian.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Vinita Sinha

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 303200

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Due to the entry of the Portuguese in the 16^th century, Tulunadu became a hotbed of unrest. When more than fourteen sub dynasties like the Bangas, Ajilas, Chautas, Sawantas, were engaged in conflict amongst themselves. It then inevitable that they had to fight against the Europeans as well. The political centres of the Banga dynasty were Belthangady, Uppinangady, Nanadvara and Mangalore, and the Chautas were Ullala, Puttige and Mudabidre region. These dynasties belonged to the Jain community. The Chautas of Ullal rose to power during the 12^th century.
• The names of elder Rani Abbakka Devi (1554-1588) and younger Rani Abbakka Devi (1594-1640) shine like the brightest stars in Indian history. The elder Rani Abbakka Devi was married to Kamaraya II, and her daughter, the younger Rani Abbakka Devi was married to Lakshmappa Bangarasa, the IV. Both Kamaraya and Lakshmappa belonged to the Banga dynasty. The mother-daughter duo held great expertise in warfare and other state crafts and were popular amongst their subjects. When the Banga dynasty succumbed to the Portuguese rule and was prepared to pay tribute, the elder Rani Abbakka Devi opposed it. Elder Rani Abbakka Devi resisted the Portuguese until her last breath, while the younger Rani Abbakka Devi continued her mother’s revenge and fulfilled her mother’s dreams.
• The difference of opinion between the Lakshamappa Bangarasa and Younger Abbakka on payment of tribute to the Portuguese increased to such an extent that she left the Palace of her husband in Mangalore with her three children and assumed the throne at Ullal, inherited from her mother. She was ready to face Portuguese in war than to offer them tribute.
• The war continued for a long time. In 1617, when the Portuguese looted a merchant ship of Abbakka, enroute to Saudi Arabia, she was gravely enraged. This incident led to the great war against the Portuguese in 1618. Abbakka got the help of Venkatappa Nayaka of Keladi, who also saw the Portuguese and the Bangas as his enemy. The Portuguese Navy, which had an excellent reputation internationally, was destroyed by Rani Abbakka with her meagre military force in her war against the Portuguese in 1618. In this war, Portuguese military leaders Miranda and D’Mello narrowly escaped.
• This news spread like wildfire in Europe. More or less, after this incident, the coastal belt was freed from Portuguese interference.
• As suggested by Shah Abbas, the king of Persia, Italian traveller Pietro Dalla Valle came to Ullal in 1623 to meet Rani Abbakka. He gets inspired by his meeting with the queen in Manel. His description of this exceptional meet can be found in his travelogue. Had Rani Abbakka not defeated the Portuguese with her skilled war tactics, the possibility of the Portuguese ruling India instead of the Britishers had a high chance.
• Rani Abbakka was as well known for her war tactics and state crafts as her love towards her subjects, governance and justice. Such an extraordinarily brave woman who belongs to the Tuluva soil is a matter of great pride to the entire nation. Despite being the queen of a small province like Ullala, she dared to erupt against the European forces and defeat the Portuguese. Hence, it is only apt to say that Braveheart is the first Indian freedom fighter to fight against the European powers.
• The Portuguese had made several attempts to capture Ullal, strategically placed. But Abbakka had repulsed each of their attack with sheer courage and ingenuity. The queen’s story is retold from generation to generation through folk songs and yakshagana, the popular folk theatre, In bootaradhana, (which literally means appeasing the possessed, a local ritual dance) the personal in trance narrates the great deeds of Abbakka Devi. Abbakka, dark and good looking, always dressed in simple clothes like a common village woman. She rode the horse stately and worked deep into the night dispensing justice.
• Rani Abbakka, though a Queen of a little known small princely state, Ullal, was magnetic woman of indomitable courage and patriotism. While Rani Jhansi has become a symbol of courage, Abbakka, nearly 300 years her predecessor, has been largely forgotten by history. Available records and archives speaks of her as a luminous personality of awesome valour and bravery.
• Text : Based on information received from proponent.

The post Rani Abbakka Devi appeared first on iStampGallery.

Issued by India

Issued on Nov 23, 2023

Issued for : Department of Posts is delighted to issue Commemorative Postage Stamp on 525^th Birth Anniversary of Saint Meera Bai and salutes her teachings to the world on the ways to love God.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure : Sh Brahm Prakash
Cancellation Cachet : Sh Brahm Prakash

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 201600

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Meera

Born on 1498 at Kudaki, Rajasthan, India

Died on 1546 at Dwarka, Gujarat, India

About : 

• Meera Bai, born in 1498, Kudaki, India, was a hindu mystic and poet whose lyrical songs of devotion to the god Krishna are popular in northern India.
• Meera Bai was a Rajput princess, the only child of Ratan Singh, younger brother of the ruler of Merta. Her royal education included music and religion as well as instruction in politics and government. An image of Krishna given to her during childhood by a holy man began a lifetime of devotion to Krishna, whom she worshipped as her Divine Lover.
• Meera Bai was married in 1516 to Bhoj Raj, crown prince of Mewar. Her husband died in 1521, probably of battle wounds, and thereafter she was the victim of much persecution and intrigue at the hands of her brother-in-law when he ascended the throne, and by his successor, Vikram Singh. Meera Bai was something of a rebel, and her religious pursuits did not fit the established pattern for a Rajput princess and widow. She spent most of her days in her private temple dedicated to Krishna, receiving sadhus (holy men) and pilgrims from throughout India and composing songs of devotion. At least two attempts made on her life are alluded to in her poems. Once a poisonous snake was sent to her in a basket of flowers, but when she opened it, she found an image of Krishna. On another occasion she was given a cup of poison but drank it without any harm.
• Finally, Meera Bai left Mewar and returned to Merta, but finding that her unconventional behaviour was not acceptable there either, she set out on a series of pilgrimages, eventually settling in Dwarka. In 1546 Udai Singh, who had succeeded Vikram Singh as rana, sent a delegation of Brahmans to bring her back to Mewar. Reluctant, she asked permission to spend the night at the temple of Ranchorji (Krishna) and the next morning was found to have disappeared. According to popular belief, she miraculously merged with the image of Ranchorji, but whether she actually died that night or slipped away to spend the rest of her years wandering in disguise is not known.
• Meera Bai belonged to a strong tradition of bhakti (devotional) poets in medieval India who expressed their love of God through the analogy of human relations — a mother’s love for her child, a friend for a friend, or a woman for her beloved. The immense popularity and charm of her lyrics lies in their use of everyday images and in the sweetness of emotions easily understood by the people of India.
• Meera’s mystic songs act as a soothing balm to the wounded hearts and tired nerves of those who toil in this world with the heavy burden of life. The sweet music of her songs exerts a benign influence on the hearers, removes discord and disharmony, and lulls them to sleep. Meera’s language of love is so powerful that even a downright atheist will be moved by her devotional songs. Meera’s songs infuse faith, courage, devotion and love of God in the minds of the readers. They inspire the aspirants to take to the path of devotion and they produce in them a marvellous thrill and a melting of the heart.
• Text : Referenced from content provided by Proponent.

The post Meera Bai appeared first on iStampGallery.