Amrita Bazar Patrika Centenary
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | February 20, 1968 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | 15 nP |
| Quantity | 2,000,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13¾ x 14 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Orange yellow | Sepia |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 446 Stamp Number IN 464 Yvert et Tellier IN 247 Stanley Gibbons IN 562 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Feathers | Newspapers | Stylized Objects |
“Amrita Bazar Patrika” marks a significant milestone as it celebrates its centenary, tracing its origins to its launch as a Bengali weekly on February 20th, 1868. Founded in a remote village in the district of Jessore (now in East Pakistan), the “Patrika” was not established for commercial gain but rather to amplify the voices of the oppressed and convey their aspirations.
At its inception, India was grappling with growing unrest, both politically and economically. The indigenous trades suffered, and rural masses faced impoverishment, with farmers compelled to cultivate indigo for the benefit of foreign planters. In response to this exploitation, Shishir Kumar Ghosh and his brothers launched the “Patrika” as part of a movement to protest against the tyranny of indigo planters and government apathy.
After three years, the publication shifted its base to Calcutta, where it faced opposition from authorities who sought to curb its outspoken nature. Despite attempts to coerce the paper into adopting a milder stance, Ghosh’s unwavering commitment to honest journalism prevailed. When threatened with eviction from Calcutta, he defiantly declared, “Let there be at least one honest journalist in the country.” Even the Vernacular Press Act, aimed at silencing Indian language papers, failed to deter the “Patrika,” which promptly began publishing in English.
In 1891, the “Patrika” transitioned to a daily publication, its subsequent history intricately intertwined with India’s struggle for independence. Despite facing numerous prosecutions and repressive measures, the paper remained steadfast in its devotion to the nationalist cause, earning the gratitude and patronage of the Indian people.
Today, “Amrita Bazar Patrika” stands as one of India’s foremost national dailies, a testament to the pioneering spirit of its founders and the patriotic fervor of its readership. The Posts & Telegraphs Department honors the invaluable contributions of this esteemed Indian-owned newspaper with a commemorative postage stamp on its centenary.