Munshi Newal Kishore
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Death Centenary |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | February 19, 1970 |
| Denomination | 20 nP |
| Quantity | 3,000,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Lake |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 494 Stamp Number IN 510 Yvert et Tellier IN 293 Stanley Gibbons IN 608 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Famous people | Headgear | Men | Publishers |
Munshi Newal Kishore, often hailed as the Caxton of India, was a visionary figure whose pioneering efforts in publishing and various other fields left an indelible mark on Indian society. Born on January 3, 1836, into an orthodox Brahmin family in Aligarh, he possessed an uncompromisingly universal outlook from a young age.
At the tender age of 22, in 1858, Munshi Newal Kishore founded the ‘Newal Kishore Press and Book Depot’ in Lucknow, a monumental achievement considering the times. This institution, which stands today as the oldest printing and publishing concern in Asia, played a pivotal role in preserving and disseminating valuable manuscripts and books in Sanskrit, Hindi, Urdu, and Persian.
His publishing endeavors were not limited to religious texts but extended to educational materials, newspapers, and periodicals. He launched ‘The Oudh Akhbar,’ northern India’s first Indian language daily newspaper, and ‘The Oudh Review,’ an English newsweekly, setting high standards in journalism.
Beyond publishing, Munshi Newal Kishore was a multifaceted personality. He ventured into industrialization with the establishment of the Upper India Couper Paper Mills, the first paper mill in northern India. His philanthropic activities included setting up over 30 public libraries and schools across the subcontinent.
His contributions to society and education earned him accolades, including the title of C.I.E. and the ‘Kaiser-e-Hind’ Medal. King Abdur Rahman of Afghanistan himself expressed admiration for Munshi Newal Kishore’s work, a testament to his widespread impact.
Despite his acclaim and recognition, Munshi Newal Kishore remained dedicated to the political aspirations of his people. He joined the ranks of the founding fathers of the Indian National Congress in 1885, aligning himself with the cause of Indian nationalism.
Munshi Newal Kishore’s life exemplifies the power of courage, hard work, and dedication in shaping a remarkable legacy. His contributions continue to inspire generations, and the issuance of a special commemorative stamp by the Posts and Telegraphs Department serves as a fitting tribute to his enduring influence and achievements.