T.R. Sundaram

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Technical Data

Stamp Set 100 Years of Indian Cinema
Date of Issue May 3, 2013
Denomination Rs. 5
Quantity 810,000
Perforation 13
Printer Security Printing Press, Hyderabad
Printing Process Offset Lithography
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Multicolor
Credit (Designed By) Shri Kamleshwar Singh
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 2760

Yvert et Tellier IN 2541

WADP Numbering System - WNS IN064.2013

Themes

Early Life

Born: 16 July 1907
Place of Birth: Salem, Tamil Nadu, India
(Recorded also as Coimbatore in some references)

T.R. Sundaram was a pioneering figure in South Indian cinema, known for his foresight, creativity, and contributions to the early development of the film industry.

Career and Contributions

T.R. Sundaram was the visionary founder of Modern Theatres, the iconic film production company based in Salem. Established in 1930s, Modern Theatres became one of the earliest and most prolific studios in South India, producing films in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Hindi, and Sinhalese.

As a director, producer, and actor, Sundaram played a crucial role in transforming the film production landscape. He introduced technical innovations, nurtured new talent, and helped popularize studio-based filmmaking in India.

Awards and Recognition

  • National Film Award – Certificate of Merit for
    Second Best Feature Film in Malayalam for Kandam Becha Kottu (1961)

His productions were known for strong storytelling, cultural richness, and technical quality.

Passing

Died: 23 August 1963
His contributions left a lasting mark on South Indian cinema and laid the foundation for generations of filmmakers.

Philatelic Tribute

India Post honoured his legacy by issuing a commemorative postage stamp on T.R. Sundaram, celebrating his pioneering role as a director-producer and as the founder of Modern Theatres Ltd., Salem, as part of the series “100 Years of Indian Cinema.”

First Day Cover

T.R. Sundaram