Swati Tirunal Rama Varma
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | May 2, 1988 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | 60 p |
| Quantity | 1,000,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 x 13½ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Deep mauve |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1156 Stamp Number IN 1218 Yvert et Tellier IN 969 Stanley Gibbons IN 1309 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Composers | Famous people | Men |
Swati Tirunal Rama Varma, born on 26th April 1813 into the royal family of Travancore, made significant contributions both as a ruler and as a composer of Carnatic music. Here’s a structured presentation on his life and achievements:
Commemorative Stamp Set on Swati Tirunal Rama Varma
Design Elements:
- Stamps: Featuring portraits of Swati Tirunal in royal attire and engaged in musical composition.
- Background: Scenes from Travancore depicting cultural richness and musical heritage.
- Inscriptions: Quotes from his compositions in Sanskrit, Malayalam, Hindustani, Telugu, and Kannada.
- Decorative Elements: Traditional motifs reflecting Kerala’s artistic traditions and musical instruments.
Cultural and Historical Significance:
- Musical Legacy: Renowned as the foremost composer of Carnatic music in Kerala, celebrated for his poetic beauty and devotional fervor in compositions.
- Multilingual Composer: His compositions spanned five languages, illustrating his versatility and cultural integration.
- Royal Administration: Ruled Travancore from 1829 to 1846, known for administrative reforms and combating corruption.
- Artistic Patronage: Established a cultural renaissance, promoting classical arts and preserving Kerala’s musical heritage.
Usage:
- Philatelic Collectors: Collectors interested in Indian music and cultural history would value these stamps.
- Educational Tools: Used in schools and music academies to teach about Swati Tirunal’s compositions and their cultural significance.
- Cultural Promotion: Raises awareness of Kerala’s musical heritage and Swati Tirunal’s contributions to Indian classical music.
Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set:
- Preservation: Preserves the musical and cultural legacy of Swati Tirunal, ensuring it reaches a wider audience.
- Inspiration: Inspires musicians and cultural enthusiasts to explore his compositions and contributions to Carnatic music.
- Historical Remembrance: Commemorates his role as a ruler and composer, highlighting his enduring impact on Kerala’s cultural identity.
Example of the Stamp Design:
- Denomination: INR 20 (example)
- Design: Portrait of Swati Tirunal composing music, surrounded by musical notes and instruments.
- Background: Rich colors symbolizing Kerala’s cultural vibrancy and musical heritage.
- Text: “Swati Tirunal Rama Varma Commemorative Stamp”, “1813-1846, Composer and Ruler of Travancore”
Significance:
- Celebrates Swati Tirunal’s profound contributions to Carnatic music, showcasing his artistic genius and cultural influence.
- Honors his legacy as a ruler who promoted social reforms and artistic patronage, making him a revered figure in Kerala and beyond.
This commemorative stamp set would serve as a tribute to Swati Tirunal’s enduring legacy, enriching our understanding of Kerala’s cultural heritage and his pivotal role in shaping Indian classical music.