125th Anniversary of St. Xavier’s College, Calcutta

Commemorative Stamp: St. Xavier’s College, Calcutta

Established in January 1860 by a group of Belgian Jesuits led by Fr. H. Depelchin, St. Xavier’s College, Calcutta, has emerged as a prestigious educational institution in India. Its rich history, illustrious alumni, and commitment to holistic education have shaped its legacy over 125 years.

Founding and Early Years

1. Inception: Founded on 16th January 1860, at 10 Park Street, Calcutta, originally housed in the Sana Souci Theatre building, St. Xavier’s College began with a modest number of students and a dedication to quality education.
2. Affiliation: Affiliated with Calcutta University in 1862, the college started its journey as a center of academic excellence in the heart of Calcutta.

Notable Alumni

1. Rabindranath Tagore: The Nobel laureate and literary giant fondly remembered his teachers at St. Xavier’s, highlighting the profound impact of the institution on his intellectual development.
2. Jagdish Chandra Basu: Renowned scientist whose early scientific pursuits were encouraged and guided by Fr. E. Lafont, a distinguished science educator at St. Xavier’s.

Academic Excellence and Growth

1. Expansion: Over the years, St. Xavier’s College has grown significantly, accommodating a diverse student body and expanding its academic offerings across Arts, Commerce, Science, and Teacher’s Training departments.
2. Co-educational Initiative: Introducing co-education in Honours courses in Arts, Science, and Teacher’s Training has further enriched the academic environment, fostering inclusivity and diversity.

Philosophy and Vision

1. Ignatian Vision: Inspired by the teachings of St. Ignatius, the college aims not only for academic excellence but also for the holistic development of its students, instilling values of social justice, equality, and moral responsibility.
2. Commitment to Society: In alignment with India’s constitutional values, St. Xavier’s strives to educate and empower its students to contribute meaningfully to society, promoting freedom, justice, and respect for all.

Conclusion

This commemorative stamp celebrates 125 years of St. Xavier’s College, Calcutta, honoring its profound contributions to education, culture, and nation-building in India. It recognizes the institution’s legacy of nurturing generations of leaders who embody academic rigor, ethical values, and a commitment to service.

Issued by the Department of Posts, this stamp honors St. Xavier’s College, Calcutta, as a beacon of education and enlightenment, dedicated to the greater glory of God and the service of humanity.

For More Information

Read more here:

• Wikipedia: St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata
• Indian Philatelics: 125th Anniversary of St. Xavier’s College, Calcutta