About this stamp
Pandit Kunji Lal Dubey was a prominent Indian freedom fighter, educationist, and politician whose contributions spanned various fields. Here’s a detailed overview of his life and achievements:
Early Life and Education
- Birth: 18th March 1896, Amgaon (Bada), District Narsinghpur.
- Primary and Secondary Education: Completed at Kareli and Narsinghpur; finished schooling at Akola.
- Higher Education: Graduated from Robertson College, Jabalpur, in 1918. Obtained a first-class law degree from Allahabad in 1920.
Legal and Political Career
- Legal Practice: Began practicing law in Jabalpur in 1920.
- Freedom Struggle:
- Influenced by leaders like Pt. Madan Mohan Malviya and Narhari Chintamani Kelkar.
- Became a member of the All India Congress Committee in 1937.
- Participated in the Satyagraha of 1941 and was imprisoned for 6 months.
- Joined the Quit India Movement in 1942, was arrested, and released in 1944.
Contributions to Education
- Chancellor of Nagpur University (1950): Advocated for the use of mother tongues in education.
- Translated major texts into Hindi and Marathi.
- Supported the preparation of about 75 texts and original works.
- President of the Hindi Sahitya Sammelan: Promoted Hindi literature and culture.
Political Career
- Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly:
- Elected twice in 1946 and 1952.
- Held the position of Finance Minister in 1967.
- Noted for his constructive opposition as Deputy Leader of the Opposition.
- State and National Organizations:
- President of the Madhya Pradesh Olympic Association.
- President of the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association.
- Founder member of the Madhya Pradesh Lalit Kala Academy.
- President of the All India Ayurved Parishad.
Awards and Honors
- Padma Bhushan (1964): Recognized for his multifaceted services.
- Honorary Doctorates:
- Doctorate of Law from Jabalpur University (1965).
- D. Litt. from Vikram University (1967).
Personal Traits and Legacy
- Known for his simplicity and ethical conduct in both personal and public life.
- Passed away on 2nd July 1970.
Commemoration
- Stamp Issuance: The Department of Post issued a commemorative postage stamp in honor of Pt. Kunji Lal Dubey on his birth anniversary, celebrating his contributions to law, education, and public service.
Pt. Kunji Lal Dubey’s legacy continues to be remembered for his dedication to education, his role in the freedom struggle, and his contributions to various state and national organizations.
