Pandit Omkarnath Thakur (1897-1967)
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Birth Centenary |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | June 24, 1997 |
| Denomination | Rs. 2 |
| Quantity | 400,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 x 13½ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Printing Process | Photogravure |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Sh. Sankha Samanta |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1553 Stamp Number IN 1611 Yvert et Tellier IN 1321 Stanley Gibbons IN 1717 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Famous people | Men | Musical Instruments | Musicians |
Legendary Indian Classical Musician and Scholar
Omkarnath Thakur was one of the greatest Indian classical musicians of the 20th century. Renowned for his powerful voice, emotional depth, and scholarly contributions, he played a major role in promoting Hindustani classical music in India and abroad.
Born on 24 June 1897 at Jhajgram, Pt. Omkarnath Thakur became a celebrated vocalist, teacher, composer, and researcher.
Early Life and Musical Training
Omkarnath Thakur was born to:
- Gauri Shankara Thakur
- Jhaverba
At the age of thirteen, in 1910, he joined the famous Gandharva Mahavidyalaya in Bombay as a student under the guidance of Vishnu Digambar Paluskar.
Recognizing his extraordinary talent, Paluskar appointed the young Omkarnath Thakur as Principal of the Gandharva Mahavidyalaya in Lahore when he was only 19 years old.
Founder of Music Institutions
Pt. Omkarnath Thakur established several important institutions dedicated to music education:
- Gandharva Niketan in Bharuch (1923)
- Sri Sangita Niketan in Mumbai (1934)
These institutions helped preserve and spread classical music training.
Role at Banaras Hindu University
In 1946, prominent leaders including Madan Mohan Malaviya and Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan supported the creation of a music faculty at Banaras Hindu University.
As a result, the College of Music was established, and in 1950 Pt. Omkarnath Thakur became its first Principal and Dean. He served in this role until 1957.
Great Performer of Indian Classical Music
Omkarnath Thakur is regarded among the greatest musicians of his century.
He was admired for:
- Exceptional command over rhythm
- Deep emotional expression
- Creative musical interpretation
- Exquisite tonal quality
- Powerful stage presence
For nearly four decades, he captivated audiences across India and internationally.
International Recognition
He performed concerts in many countries and gained worldwide appreciation.
In 1933, he attended the International Music Conference in Italy, where he received great acclaim for Indian classical music.
Composer and Music Scholar
Pt. Omkarnath Thakur also made major contributions as a composer.
His acclaimed musical operas include:
- Kamayani (1950)
- Kamana (1953)
Both were staged at Banaras Hindu University.
He also conducted serious research in musicology and wrote several books and articles, including:
- Sangitanjali (six parts)
- Pranava Bharati
Awards and Honors
He received many prestigious awards, including:
- Sangeet Natak Akademi Award
- Padma Shri
- Sangit Martand
- Sangeet Samrat
- D.Litt. from Banaras Hindu University
Death and Legacy
Omkarnath Thakur passed away in December 1967.
He is remembered as a legendary vocalist, visionary educator, and scholar who enriched Indian classical music for future generations.
Commemorative Postage Stamp
The Department of Posts issued a commemorative postage stamp to mark the birth centenary of Pt. Omkarnath Thakur and honor his lasting contribution to Indian music.
First Day Cover
