Kavimani S. Desigavinayagam Pillai (1876-1954)

Kavimani S. Desigavinayagam Pillai

Technical Data

Date of Issue October 21, 2005
Denomination Rs. 5
Quantity 600,000
Perforation comb 13¼
Printer Security Printing Press, Nashik
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Multicolor
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 2104

Stamp Number IN 2120

Yvert et Tellier IN 1866

Stanley Gibbons IN 2288

WADP Numbering System - WNS IN035.05

Themes

Commemorative Stamp Set: Kavimani S. Desigavinayagam Pillai (1876-1954)

Design Elements

  • Central Imagery: The stamp features a portrait of Kavimani S. Desigavinayagam Pillai, shown in a thoughtful pose that reflects his literary prowess and dedication to Tamil language and poetry. The background includes a subtle scene of a classic Tamil landscape, with palm trees and ancient temples, symbolizing his deep connection to Tamil culture. A scroll with Tamil script may also be included to represent his poetic works.
  • Color Scheme: Warm earth tones such as shades of ochre, green, and deep red reflect the natural beauty and cultural richness of Tamil Nadu. Gold accents highlight the honor and respect associated with his title “Kavimani” (Jewel of Poets).
  • Text and Inscriptions: The inscription reads, “Kavimani S. Desigavinayagam Pillai, 1876-1954,” with an additional mention of his title “Kavimani” in Tamil. Below the image, a short phrase like “Jewel of Tamil Poetry” encapsulates his legacy.

Cultural and Historical Significance

  • Kavimani S. Desigavinayagam Pillai, fondly known as “Kavimani,” is celebrated as one of Tamil Nadu’s most revered poets and a luminary of Tamil literature. His works are marked by a deep devotion to Tamil language, culture, and heritage. Through his poetry, Pillai emphasized themes of love, spirituality, and social values, resonating with generations of Tamil-speaking audiences.
  • His writings contributed to the Tamil Renaissance, a movement that sought to revitalize and promote the richness of Tamil language and culture. As a poet, he was committed to capturing the beauty and essence of Tamil Nadu’s landscape, traditions, and values. Pillai’s literary contributions earned him the prestigious title of “Kavimani,” meaning “Jewel of Poets,” a testament to his impact on Tamil literature and identity.

Usage

  • Postage: This commemorative stamp can be used for regular postal use, allowing people across the country to honor and remember Pillai’s contributions to Tamil poetry.
  • Educational and Cultural Promotion: The stamp is a valuable resource for museums, educational institutions, and literary organizations that aim to celebrate Tamil literature and cultural heritage.
  • Philatelic Collections: This stamp would be an essential addition for collectors interested in Indian literary figures, Tamil culture, or the Tamil Renaissance.

Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set

  • The stamp set commemorates Kavimani S. Desigavinayagam Pillai’s enduring contributions to Tamil literature and culture. His poems celebrated the richness of Tamil heritage and played a pivotal role in the Tamil Renaissance, influencing generations of poets and writers. Recognizing him with a commemorative stamp highlights his importance in Indian literature and honors his legacy in the preservation and promotion of Tamil language.

Example of the Stamp Design

  • Primary Stamp: The stamp portrays Kavimani in a reflective pose, dressed in traditional Tamil attire. The background includes symbolic elements like a Tamil scroll or inscriptions from his poems. The title “Kavimani” is prominently featured alongside the inscription “Kavimani S. Desigavinayagam Pillai, 1876-1954.”

The Commemorative Stamp Set Might Include:

  • First Day Cover: An envelope featuring a Tamil literary scene, such as a traditional classroom or temple courtyard, with the cancellation mark displaying his title “Kavimani” in Tamil script.
  • Miniature Sheet: A sheet with several stamps showing different scenes inspired by his poetry, such as rural Tamil Nadu landscapes or excerpts of his poems.
  • Informative Brochure: A booklet providing insights into Pillai’s life, his contributions to Tamil literature, and his influence on Tamil culture. It might also include translated excerpts from some of his poems, highlighting his poetic themes.

Significance

  • The commemorative stamp set for Kavimani S. Desigavinayagam Pillai honors a towering figure in Tamil literature whose works celebrated the language, landscape, and soul of Tamil Nadu. This set serves as a tribute to the legacy of Kavimani and reinforces the cultural importance of Tamil poetry, inspiring continued appreciation and preservation of Tamil literary heritage.