Danmal Mathur

Educationist, Scout Leader and Sportsman

Danmal Mathur is remembered as a highly respected luminary of Rajasthan. Born on 14 March 1904 in Ajmer, he grew into a multifaceted personality who left an indelible mark as an educationist, institution builder, sportsman, and community leader.

His father, Munshi Kanmal Mathur, had earlier served as Housemaster of Kotah House at Mayo College and was known for his principled and disciplined life—qualities that young Danmal imbibed deeply.

Academic Career and Contributions

After earning a Bachelor’s degree from Government College, Ajmer, Shri Mathur began his career as a Demonstrator in Physics and later taught at Sardar High School, Bharatpur, for three years. Recognising his potential, the then Principal of Mayo College, Mr. V.A.S. Shaw, appointed him in 1932 to teach Geography.

He rose steadily through the ranks—becoming Head of the Geography Department, Housemaster, Vice Principal, and eventually Acting Principal before his retirement in 1969.

His most notable contributions to Mayo College include:

• Establishment of the school museum, now known as The Danmal Mathur Museum, acclaimed internationally as one of the finest school museums.
• Creation of the unique Open Air Map of India, an innovative educational landmark.

Beyond Mayo, he served as the Founder Principal of Vidya Niketan School in Bhilwara and Mayoor School in Ajmer. In recognition of his distinguished services, the Rajasthan Government conferred upon him the State Teacher’s Award (1970), and the Mewar Foundation honoured him with the Maharana Mewar Award (1981).

Pioneer of the Scouting Movement

Shri Mathur was a pioneer of the Scouting Movement in Rajasthan, inspired by Madan Mohan Malaviya. For his outstanding services to scouting, he received the prestigious Silver Star and later the Silver Elephant, the highest award in Indian Scouting.

Sporting Excellence

An accomplished sportsman, Shri Mathur achieved the rare distinction of captaining cricket, football, and hockey teams in the same year at Government College, Ajmer. For his sporting achievements, he was awarded the Colvin Gold Medal. He was also a member of the Rajputana cricket team that played against the Marylebone Cricket Club (M.C.C.) during its tour of India and Australia in the 1930s.

International Recognition and Public Service

In 1952, as a Fulbright Scholar in the United States, he delivered acclaimed lectures on Indian culture and religion.

He also contributed significantly to civic life in Ajmer, serving in various capacities, including:

• Member of the Urban Improvement Trust
• Councillor in the Ajmer Municipal Council
• Vice-President of the Indian Red Cross Society
• Board Member of Savitri College

Affectionately known as “Maa’t Saab,” he inspired generations of students with his commitment to excellence, discipline, and integrity.

Enduring Legacy

Any account of Mayo College, the Scout Movement in India, or the development of education in Rajasthan would remain incomplete without acknowledging Shri Danmal Mathur’s monumental contributions.

In honour of his lifelong dedication to education and nation-building, India Post has issued a commemorative postage stamp celebrating his remarkable legacy.