Birth Centenary of Narottam Morarjee (1877-1929)
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | April 2, 1977 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | 25 p |
| Perforation | comb 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Greenish blue |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 711 Stamp Number IN 754 Yvert et Tellier IN 516 Stanley Gibbons IN 844 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Famous people | Men | passenger-ships | Ships |
Narottam Morarjee, born on April 2, 1877, in Porbandar, faced early loss with the passing of his father, Morarjee Goculdas, a prominent textile magnate. Despite his young age, Narottam was influenced by distinguished mentors such as Narayan Chandavarkar and Gopal Krishna Gokhale, who instilled in him a deep sense of patriotism. He initially pursued studies at Elphinstone College, Bombay but later joined his father’s firm, which managed two mills: Morarjee Goculdas Mill in Bombay and Sholapur Mill in Sholapur.
Narottam Morarjee became closely associated with eminent figures in Indian politics such as Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Annie Besant, Dadabhai Naoroji, Rabindranath Tagore, Sarojini Naidu, and Motilal Nehru. Inspired by Gandhi’s call for Swaraj, he ventured into the national shipping sector, leading to the establishment of the Scindia Steam Navigation Company Limited on March 27, 1919. This marked the beginnings of modern Indian shipping.
On April 5, 1919, the company’s first ship, s.s. LOYALTY, set sail from Bombay to the United Kingdom, proudly representing Indian shipping on the international stage. This historic voyage symbolized the revival of a national industry, development of neglected ports, expansion of Indian trade, retention of wealth within the country, and the creation of opportunities for Indian youth at sea.
Narottam Morarjee steered the Scindia Company for a decade, advancing the Indian shipping industry with his vision and perseverance. His leadership witnessed the progressive growth of Indian shipping, a testament to his foresight. His untimely demise on November 5, 1929, was mourned by many, including Mahatma Gandhi, who praised Morarjee’s blend of patriotism and commercial acumen.
In honor of Narottam Morarjee’s birth centenary, the Posts and Telegraphs Department is privileged to issue a commemorative stamp, recognizing his contributions to modern Indian shipping and his legacy as a merchant prince dedicated to his country.