Udumalai Nrayana Kavi

Udumalai Narayana Kavi

Technical Data

Stamp Set Udumalai Narayana Kavi Commemoration
Date of Issue December 31, 2008
Denomination Rs. 5
Quantity 400,000
Perforation 13
Printer India Security Press, Nasik
Printing Process Photogravure
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Multicolor
Credit (Designed By) Ms. Nenu Gupta
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 2338

Stamp Number IN 2299

Stanley Gibbons IN 2562

WADP Numbering System - WNS IN077.2008

Themes

Udumalai Narayana Kavi was born on September 25, 1899, in Poolavadi Village, which is about 20 kms from Udumalpet, Coimbatore District in Tamil Nadu. He lost his parents, Thiru Krishnasamy and Tmt. Muthammal, at an early age and was brought up by his elder brother, Thiru Dhanuskodi. His early education only went up to Standard IV at a local elementary school in his village. Afterwards, he was taught by Guru Udumalai Muthuswamy Kavirayar, who also taught Tamil Literature. He then learned Harikatha Kalakshepam from Gayaka Sikamani Harikesa Nallur Muthiah Bhagavthar.

Udumalai Narayana Kavi displayed acting talents in local dramas at a very early age of 15. He acted in dramas like Valli Thirumanam, Pavalakhodi and Nandanar. A patriot, he went round the villages selling Khadi products and singing nationalist songs. Some of his songs became extremely popular.

In 1923, he got the opportunity to act in dramas. His patriotic songs were often sung by famous artists of those days. His works earned him praise and recognition.. The award of best lyricist by Sangeet Natak Academy and South India Film Chamber, the title of Sahithya Rathanakar and Kalaimamani, the award by the Tamil Nadu Government are some examples.

He entered the world of cinema in 1933 when he continued till 1976. He wrote several lyrics for Tamil films.

His Kathakalakshepam titled “Kindanar” was to eradicate caste-based discriminations among the people. His poems contained rationalistic, patriotic and social messages.

First Day Cover

Udumalai Nrayana Kavi