Issued by India

Issued on Dec 16, 2025

Issued for : The Department of Posts is proud to release a commemorative postage stamp honouring a figure who seamlessly bridged the worlds of scholarly excellence and popular culture. He embodies the spirit of inclusivity, creativity, the intellectual rigour that defines India’s literary tradition. This stamp not only celebrates Arudra’s legacy but also highlights the enduring significance of Telugu literature in India’s cultural fabric.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Ms. Neetu Arora

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 303280

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Bhagavatula Sadasiva Sankara Sastry

Born on 31 Aug, 1925 at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India

Died on 4 Jun, 1998

About : 

• Bhagavatula Sadasiva Sankara Sastri, better known by his pen name Arudra, made significant contributions to poetry, literary scholarship, cinema, dance research, and cultural preservation. He was a rare blend of creative brilliance and academic rigour.
• Born on 31 August, 1925 in Visakhapatnam, Arudra hailed from a distinguished family whose history stretches back four centuries. His early years were shaped by traditional learning, but he broke away from convention early, rejecting caste-based practices and embracing a humanist worldview. His first poetic awakening came during the Japanese bombing of Visakhapatnam in World War II, which inspired Loha Vihangalu (Metal Birds). This powerful anti-war poem marked his literary debut.
• Arudra’s formative years were eclectic. He served in the Royal Indian Air Force, worked as a photographer, and eventually immersed himself in journalism and the Telugu film industry. His early literary mentors under whose influence Arudra honed his craft, blending modernist aesthetics with social commitment. Throughout his life, Arudra was a relentless learner, whether mastering chess, explore the depths of Telugu literary history and revived near-forgotten classical dance forms like Vilasini Natyam.
• Arudra’s magnum opus, Samagra Andhra Sahityam, remains the most comprehensive documentation of Telugu literary history to date. Originally spanning thirteen volumes, later condensed into four, it traces the evolution of Telugu literature from its origins to the modern era, making it a foundational reference for scholars and enthusiasts alike. His ability to weave historical rigour with engaging narrative ensured that this work became accessible beyond academia.
• As a poet and lyricist, Arudra brought literary finesse to popular culture. He penned over 3,000 film songs, many of which became cultural staples, effortlessly blending poetic sophistication with mass appeal. His film lyrics, from devotional hymns to romantic duets, demonstrated his versatility and deep understanding of both classical and contemporary idioms. His landmark works include Tvamevaham, a searing poetic refection on war and human suffering, and countless film songs that continue to resonate across generations.
• Arudra was also a passionate researcher and revivalist of traditional arts. His scholarship on Vilasini Natyam, a classical dance form, played a pivotal role in its preservation and revival. His interdisciplinary approach-bridging literature, cinema, dance, and even magic, epitomised his belief that true art transcends rigid boundaries.
• Arudra considered himself a Sangha Jeevi, a people’s writer who believed that while epics live on paper, lyrics live in the hearts and voices of the people. This philosophy remains profoundly relevant today as India seeks to balance cultural preservation with modernisation. His works continue to be taught, performed, and discussed, bridging generations and inspiring new waves of Telugu writers, scholars, and artists.
• The centenary of Arudra’s birth has reignited interest in his legacy and reaffirmed his pivotal role in Telugu and Indian cultural history. His vision of making literature accessible without diluting its essence continues to guide contemporary discourse on cultural inclusivity.
• Arudra’s towering contributions to Telugu literature, cinema, and cultural research make him a national figure of enduring significance. His centenary offers a timely and symbolic occasion to honour his legacy, ensuring that new generations across India recognise and celebrate his multifaceted genius.
• Text : Referenced from content provided by the Proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Sep 20, 2024

Issued for : The Department of Posts proudly presents a commemorative Postage stamp honoring Dr. Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR). Renowned for his groundbreaking work in Indian cinema, ANR founded Annapurna Studios and established the Akkineni Nageswara Rao National Award, profoundly influencing the film industry. His commitment extended to education and philanthropy, demonstrating his dedication to societal betterment. This stamp celebrates his enduring legacy and highlights the significant impact one individual can have through passion and generosity. Dr. ANR’s contributions continue to inspire and resonate, reflecting his lasting influence on both cinema and community.

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

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 1000 Paise

Stamps Printed : 3,28,800

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Akkineni Nageswara Rao

Born on 20 Sep, 1923 at Ramapuram, Madras Presidency, British India [now in Andhra Pradesh, India]

Died on 22 Jan, 2014 at Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India [now in Telangana]

About : 

• On September 20, 2024, we honor the 100^th birth anniversary of Dr. Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR), a towering figure in Indian cinema whose remarkable career spanned over seven decades. Born in Venkataraghava Puram Village, Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh, ANR’s journey from a young stage performer to a legendary film actor is a story of immense talent and dedication.
• ANR’s involvement in the arts began early. At the age of 10, he started his career in stage acting, initially performing female roles. His film debut came in 1941 with the movie Dharmapatni, marking the start of a career that would see him become one of the most respected figures in Indian cinema. Throughout his life, ANR appeared in 256 films across Tamil, Telugu and Hindi languages, showcasing his versatility and commitment to his craft.
• ANR’s career was characterized by his extraordinary range and depth as an actor. He became a prominent figure in Indian cinema, known for his ability to portray a wide variety of characters. His contributions were not limited to his roles on screen; he also played a crucial role in the growth and development of the Telugu film industry.
• In 1976, ANR established Annapurna Studios in Hyderabad. This initiative was pivotal in shifting the Telugu Film Industry from Chennai (formerly Madras) to Hyderabad, where it could flourish within its home state of Andhra Pradesh. The establishment of Annapurna Studios was a significant milestone, contributing to the industry’s accessibility and growth in the region.
• ANR’s contributions to cinema earned him numerous accolades and honors throughout his lifetime. Some of the most notable awards and recognitions include:
  • Government of India Awards: He received prestigious awards such as the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, Dada Saheb Phalke Award, and Padma Vibhushan. These awards are among the highest honors given to individuals for their exceptional contributions to Indian cinema and culture.
  • Regional Honors: ANR was recognized by various states with awards like the Raghupathi Venkaiah Award, NTR National Film Award, ANNA Award, and Kalidas Koustabh Awards. These awards celebrate his impact on the regional film industry and his role in advancing cinema.
  • Lifetime Achievements: Throughout his career, ANR was celebrated by the Telugu film industry and various cultural organizations both in India and abroad. His achievements were recognized with lifetime awards that acknowledged his significant contributions to the field of cinema.
• In 2005, ANR established the Akkineni Nageswara Rao National Award to honor exceptional service to Indian cinema. This award, which includes a cash prize of Rs. 5,00,000/-, continues to recognize and celebrate the achievements of individuals who have made significant contributions to the film industry.
• ANR’s impact extended beyond the realm of cinema. He was deeply committed to education and charitable causes, reflecting his desire to make a positive difference in society. In 2001, he founded the International School of Film & Media Education Society to provide guidance and education to young people passionate about cinema. This institution was established to nurture the next generation of film professionals and support their growth in the industry.
• ANR’s dedication to education is also evident in his generous donations to various educational institutions. In 1958, he made a notable contribution of Rs. 1,00,000/- to Akkineni Nageswara Rao College in Gudiwada, his hometown. He also donated to several other universities, including Andhra University, Bangalore University, Bombay University, Kerala University, Madras University, Osmania University, and Sri Venkateswara University. These donations were used for scholarships and to support educational development.
• In addition to his contributions to education, ANR was actively involved in charitable efforts. He supported the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund during times of natural disasters, such as cyclones affecting Andhra Pradesh. His generosity in times of need demonstrated his commitment to social welfare and his concern for the well-being of others.
• Dr. Akkineni Nageswara Rao’s legacy is a testament to his passion for cinema, his dedication to the growth of the Telugu film industry, and his commitment to social causes. His contributions have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema and continue to influence and inspire new generations of filmmakers and actors.
• As we celebrate the centenary of ANR’s birth, we reflect on his extraordinary life and achievements. His love for cinema, his efforts to promote and develop the industry, and his philanthropic work have made him a beloved and respected figure in Indian culture. ANR’s story is not just one of professional success but also of a deep commitment to making a positive impact on society.
• Text : Referenced from content provided by Proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Nov 1, 2017

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue three Commemorative Postage Stamps on Kavi Muddana, Adikavi Nannaya & Draksharamam Bhimeswara Temple.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure : Sh. Kamleshwar Singh
Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Nenu Gupta

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 500000

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Nannaya Bhattaraka

About : 

• Vaalmiki is the first poet and his great epic the Ramayana is the first epic in Sanskrit. In Telugu the first poet is Nannaya and the first epic poem is the Mahabharatam in Telugu transcreation. Andhras most affectionately and reverently call Nannaya “Nannaya Bhattaraka”.
• Nannaya was the court poet of Raja Narendra (1019-1061 AD) who ruled Vengi kingdom in Andhra Desa prosperously from his capital city Rajamahendravaram (modern Rajamundry) in East Godavari district besides – Nannaya was his family priest too. He was the first among the ten court dignitaries. Further it says that ‘Purodhasa’ is well-versed in Mantra Sastra (Mystical incantations). He is Jitendriya (who conquers his senses), Krodha, Lobha varjia (rancourless and self-less) Neeti-vida (moralist), Sastrastra Chana (adept in martial arts), Vyuhabhyasakusala (master of war-science), Sapanugraha Samartha (competent to bless and curse) and so on. He is mightily enough to make the King even afraid of his wrath and competent to replace the king if he goes amoral and undemocratic by another from the King’s family. We need know that he is like Vasishta to Dasaratha in the Ramayana. He was personification of all righteous effulgence and repertory of all good and noble qualities. In the exordium of the Telugu Mahabharata we find many personal qualities of Nannaya but not even a fragment of information about his ancestry. But historians could some how excavate some details. Nannaya was the son of Bheemana Bhatta and Bheemana Bhatta was the family priest of Vimaladitya. Raja Raja succeeded Vimaladitya to the throne, and Nannaya succeeded to the priesthood. Nannaya was an unrivalled scholar in Vedas and Vedangas (prosody and grammar etc.). He was also a great scholar poet in eight languages. Nannaya made a deep study of inscriptional style of poetry and prose as well. With this rich background Nannaya with the help of Naryanabhatta pioneered his transcreation of the Mahabharata in Telugu. The great light that Nannaya lighted has been diffusing splendid brilliance in every house, nook and corner of Andhra Desa and it will continue to enlighten it for all time to come.
• Nannaya was a sage. He with his heart and soul wished all progress, awareness and enlightenment for his people. He was courageous and fully confident of his powers to bring the Mahabharata, known as the fifth Veda, into his people’s language without any reservations misconceptions and whims of any kind. His language is superbly, chaste and pleasant.
• Text : Based on the material received from proponent.
  

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Issued by India

Issued on Apr 26, 2017

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue Commemorative Postage Stamp on Viswanatha Satyanarayana, Tarigonda Vengamamba & Aatukuri (Kummari) Molla.

Credits :
Stamp / First Day Cover / Brochure / Cancellation Cachet : Shri Brahm Prakash

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 301590

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Tarigonda Vengamamba

Born on 20 Apr 1730 at Tarikonda village, Andhra Pradesh, India

Died on 21 Aug 1817 at Tirumala, Chittoor district, Andhra pradesh, India

About : 

• Vengamamba was born in the village Tarigonda over 100 kms from the famous temple town Tirumala in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh on the 20^th April 1730. From her childhood she used to visit the Narasimhaswamy temple in the village. From her mother she learned many hymns and devotional songs, the rendering of which she spent most of her time.
• She was married at age eight. When she was to join her husband, she told him that she considered Lord Balaji (Venkateswara) as her husband and no one else. A few days afterwards that man died. She refused to consider herself as a widow and continued to dress as a married woman.
• Instructed by Acharya Subrahmanyudu she became a Yogini. She moved to Tirumala where she was welcomed by the priests and descendants of another great bhakta, Annamayya. Her reputation as a Yogini preceded her arrival in Tirumala Tirupati.
• Vengamamba did not go to any school; neither was she taught by any teacher. She became a great poetess. She composed a variety of devotional literature such as Vishnu Parijatham, Chenchu Natakam, Rukmini Natakam, Jala Krida Vilasam and Mukthi Kanthi Vilasam (all Yaksha Ganams), Gopi Natakam (Golla Kalapam – Yakshaganam), Rama Parinayam, Sri Bhagavatham, Sri Krishna Manjari, Tatva Keerthanalu and Vashista Ramayanam (Dwipada), Sri Venkataachala Mahatyam (Padya Prabhandam) and Ashtanga Yoga, Saram (Padyakruthi). Her literary works of many varieties were inscribed on thousands of palm-leaves. Vengamamba gave up her mortal remains in a Deeksha on 21 Aug 1817.
• Text : Based on the material received from proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Apr 26, 2017

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue Commemorative Postage Stamp on Viswanatha Satyanarayana, Tarigonda Vengamamba & Aatukuri (Kummari) Molla.

Credits :
Stamp / First Day Cover / Brochure / Cancellation Cachet : Shri Brahm Prakash

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 301590

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Viswanatha Satyanarayana

Born on 10 Sep, 1895 at Nandamuru, Krishna district,
Madras state, British India [now Andhra Pradesh, India]

Died on 18 Oct, 1976 at Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India

About : 

• Sri Viswanatha Satyanarayana, acclaimed by the learned as Kavi Samrat (Emperor of Poets) is a legend in the Telugu States. He was born in a traditional family to father Sobhanadri and mother Parvathi on 10 September 1895 in a small village, Nandamuru in Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh. He was highly learned in classics like the Mahabharahta, Bhagavatha and Ramayana Sanskrit and Telugu and had masterly grasp of the works of Kalidasa, Bhavabhooti, Bharavi, Bhartruhari. He had mastery over Sanskrit, Telugu and English all of which he taught in several colleges during his career as a lecturer. He wrote profusely: 30 Kavays; 20 plays; 60 novels; 10 literary criticisms; 200 khanda kavyas; 35 short stories; 70 essays; 50 radio plays; 3 play-lets; 10 essays in English; 10 works in Sanskrit; 3 translations; 100 introductions and forewords as well as radio talks; some of his poems and novels have been translated into English, Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, Urdu and Sanskrit.
• His most celebrated works are Srimad Ramayana Kalpavruksham and Veyi Padagalu translated from Telugu into Hindi by the former Prime Minister Sri P V Narasimha Rao as Sahasra Phani. Plays among which the most famous are: Nartanasala, Shivaji – Roshanara (a historic play); Vena Raju, literary criticisms like Shakunalamu Yokka Abhignanatha; Sitayascharitam Mahat; Sahitya Surabham etc.
• Text : Based on the material received from proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Apr 26, 2017

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue Commemorative Postage Stamp on Viswanatha Satyanarayana, Tarigonda Vengamamba & Aatukuri (Kummari) Molla.

Credits :
Stamp / First Day Cover / Brochure / Cancellation Cachet : Shri Brahm Prakash

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 301590

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Atukuri Molla

Born on 1440 at Gopavaram, Kadapa district, Rayalaseema, Andhra Pradesh

Died on 1530

About : 

• Poetess Aatukuri Molla (Molla means Jasmine in Telugu) was born (13-03-1440) in village Gopavaram, Kaluvayi Mandalam of Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh.
• For generations, Molla’s ancestors were Siva Bhaktas, devotees of Siva, (also known as Mallanna, in the Telugu lands). Molla was not schooled and tutored in the traditional way. Her literary talent is described as Sahaja Panditya, a gift from Srikantha Malleswara Swamy. Although from a family of traditional Siva bhaktas, Molla revered Sri Rama, one of Vishnu’s avataras (incarnation) in an equal measure.
• Molla’s Ramayana in Telugu is very popular among the masses because, it is in simple and beautiful language. Molla’s Ramayana contains a little over 870 poems and prose. She expanded those events in Rama’s life which concern ordinary people in their daily life, in their trials and tribulations; in their triumphs and failures; in their pleasures and pains. Molla was the first woman poet who wrote a Ramayana in Telugu. Molla’s literary merit was held by the scholars of that time as precious and as meritorious as that of the most learned and accomplished and decorated poets. A statue was raised for her in Kadapa town in A.P. There is a temple, dedicated to Molla in Guntur town of Andhra Pradesh. A movie was produced about her and her Ramayana. She passed away in 1530.
• Text : Based on the material received from proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Sep 21, 2013

Issued for : Department of Posts is happy to issue a Commemorative Stamp on Gurajada Venkata Apparao.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC : Vinita Sinha
Cancellation : Alka Sharma

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 0.31 Million

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : India Security Press, Nashik

Name : Gurazada Venkata Apparao (Abyudaya Kavitha Pithamahudu)

Born on Sep 21, 1862 at Rayavaram, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India

Died on Nov 30, 1915 at Srikakulam, Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh, India

About : 

• Gurajada Venkata Apparao, a versatile Telugu writer, was born in Rayavaram village near Yelamanchili in Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh. Two dates of birth viz. 30^th November, 1861 and 21^st September, 1862 are associated with Gurajada Venkata Apparao. However, his descendants prefer the second date.
• Gurajada did his schooling from Cheepurupalli and Vizianagram. After his father’s death, he faced utter poverty and his education was supported by C. Chandrasekhara Sastri, Principal, M.R. College. He completed his graduation in 1886. In 1887, he joined the M.R. College as a lecturer and was promoted as a senior Lecturer in 1891.
• Gurajada began his writing career by writing several English poems. His literary work, Sarangadhara, published in ‘Indian Leisure Hour‘ was received well. Though his English writings were appreciated, he was encouraged to write in Telugu. His writings in Telugu also became popular. His drama ‘Kanyasulkam‘ was staged for the first time in 1892 and became the first Telugu drama written in spoken dialect. The use of the spoken dialect led to a movement which turned Gurajada into a celebrity and brought him in contact with literary luminaries of his times. ln 1909, Gurajada came up with the second edition of Kanyasulkam which is considered as an outstanding work of literature. His other notable contribution to literature are Desabhakti, Poornamma, Kanyaka and Lavanaraju.
• Gurajada used all forms of literature like drama, novel, poetry, short story and essay with equal finesse. He unreservedly assimilated the rich heritage of western classics in his own culture and language and produced a refreshing synthesis of both cultures. Known as the harbinger of new age in Telugu, Gurajada gave a concrete literary platform to the social reform movement. His writings on female education, widow remarriage, abolition of child marriages, condemnation of corruption, illiteracy, etc. are his contribution to the society.
• Gurajada took retirement in 1913 and was honoured with Fellowship by Madras University. After a brief illness, he died in 1915.
• Text : Based on the material furnished by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on May 3, 2013

Credits :
Stamp & FDC : Kamleshwar Singh
Cancellation : Nenu Gupta

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi colour

Denomination : 500 Paisa

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Bhanumathi Ramakrishna

Born on Sep 7, 1925 at Doddavaram, Maddipadu Mandal, Guntur district, Madras Presidency, British India [now in Prakasam district, Tamil Nadu]

Died on Dec 24, 2005 at Chennai, India

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Issued by India

Issued on May 3, 2013

Credits :
Stamp & FDC : Kamleshwar Singh
Cancellation : Nenu Gupta

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi colour

Denomination : 500 Paisa

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Samarla Venkata Ranga Rao

Born on Jul 3, 1918 at Nuzvidu, Krishna district, Andhra Pradesh, India

Died on Jul 18, 1974 at Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

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Issued by India

Issued on May 3, 2013

Credits :
Stamp & FDC : Kamleshwar Singh
Cancellation : Nenu Gupta

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi colour

Denomination : 500 Paisa

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Allu Ramalingaiah

Born on Oct 1, 1922 at Palakollu, Godavari district, Madras Presidency, British India [now in West Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh]

Died on Jul 30, 2004 at Hyderabad, Telangana , India

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