Dr. Bhagavan Das
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Birth Centenary |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | January 12, 1969 |
| Denomination | 20 nP |
| Quantity | 3000000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Red Brown |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 469 Stamp Number IN 485 Yvert et Tellier IN 268 Stanley Gibbons IN 583 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Famous people | Men | Optical Instruments | Philosophers | |
Dr. Bhagwan Das, born on January 12, 1869, in Varanasi, was a multifaceted personality whose contributions left a lasting impact on Indian society. Despite beginning his career as a deputy collector in government service, his intellectual curiosity and passion for learning, particularly in the fields of religion and philosophy, led him to greater endeavors.
Under the influence of Dr. Annie Besant, Dr. Bhagwan Das co-founded the Central Hindu College, which later evolved into the prestigious Banaras Hindu University. Additionally, he established the Kashi Vidya Pith, a national university, where he served as its head for several years.
Beyond academia, Dr. Bhagwan Das was actively involved in public life, serving as a respected member of the Central Legislative Assembly of undivided India. He played a pivotal role in various social and political conferences and organizations, including the Hindustani Culture Society and the National Committee on Communal Riots. His commitment to national freedom led to periods of imprisonment.
As a prolific writer and scholar proficient in Sanskrit, Dr. Bhagwan Das authored over 30 books, covering topics ranging from philosophy and ancient Indian lore to psychology and socialism. He was a proponent of synthesis, advocating for unity in essentials, liberty in non-essentials, and charity in all things.
Dr. Bhagwan Das’s intellectual legacy continues to resonate, inspiring generations with his ideas of harmony and synthesis. In recognition of his contributions, the Indian Posts and Telegraphs Department issued a special postage stamp in his honor on the occasion of his birth centenary, commemorating the life and work of this great philosopher.