125th Anniversary of Vidyasagar College, Calcutta
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | July 29, 1998 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 2 |
| Quantity | 400,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ x 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Slate black |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1637 Stamp Number IN 1698 Yvert et Tellier IN 1403 Stanley Gibbons IN 1801 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Buildings | Famous people | Men | Schools |
Table of Contents
Commemorative Stamp: 125 Years of Vidyasagar College
Design Elements:
- Main Image:
- Portrait of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar: A prominent and respectful depiction of Pundit Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, the founder of Vidyasagar College, to honor his visionary contributions to education in India.
- Background Elements:
- College Building: A detailed illustration of the original Vidyasagar College building, showcasing its historical architecture and significance.
- Symbol of Education: Books and a quill pen, symbolizing the college’s commitment to higher education and intellectual development.
- Freedom Movement Symbolism: A subtle inclusion of the Indian flag or other freedom movement-related symbols, reflecting the college’s role as a cradle of the national freedom movement.
- Text:
- Message: “125 Years of Vidyasagar College – A Legacy of Education and Freedom”
- Placement: Prominently placed at the top or bottom of the stamp for clarity.
- Colors:
- Color Scheme: A blend of earthy tones like sepia and gold, symbolizing the historical significance and rich heritage of the college.
Stamp Description:
Vidyasagar College:
- Legacy of Education and Nationalism: The stamp commemorates the 125th anniversary of Vidyasagar College, originally founded as the “Metropolitan Institution” by the revered Pundit Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar in 1872 and later rechristened as Vidyasagar College in 1917. Established during British rule in India, this unique institute of higher education was entirely conceived, established, and managed by Indians, with a mission to impart quality education, instill a patriotic spirit, and make higher education accessible to economically weaker students.
Symbolism of the Design:
- Portrait of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar: Honors the visionary founder who championed the cause of education and social reform in India.
- College Building: Depicts the historical architecture of the college, symbolizing its long-standing tradition and contribution to education.
- Books and Quill Pen: Represents the intellectual and literary contributions of the college.
- Freedom Movement Symbolism: Reflects the college’s role as a nurturing ground for leaders of India’s freedom struggle, including luminaries like Rabindranath Tagore, Swami Vivekananda, and Chittaranjan Das.
Contributions of Vidyasagar College:
- Cradle of Freedom Movement: Vidyasagar College played a pivotal role in the national freedom movement, producing a galaxy of eminent leaders, thinkers, and reformers who shaped India’s future.
- Educational Heritage: Over its 125 years, the college has contributed significantly to the fields of education, literature, sports, and culture, becoming an institution of national importance.
- Institutional Legacy: The college’s influence extends beyond its walls, having given rise to other educational institutions like The Seuri Vidyasagar College, The Nabadwip Vidyasagar College, Vidyasagar College for Women, and Vidyasagar Evening College.
Usage:
This stamp is issued to honor the 125th anniversary of Vidyasagar College, celebrating its enduring legacy in education and its role in India’s freedom struggle.
Significance:
The Vidyasagar College stamp serves as a tribute to the college’s monumental contributions to Indian society, both as an educational institution and as a cradle of the national freedom movement. It recognizes the institution’s role in shaping generations of leaders, intellectuals, and patriots, and its commitment to social progress and educational excellence.