400th Death Anniversary of Admiral Kunjali Marakkar IV

Kunjali Marakkar

Technical Data

Date of Issue December 17, 2000
Denomination Rs. 3
Quantity 700,000
Perforation comb 13
Printer Calcutta Security Printers Ltd
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Multicolor
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 1805

Stamp Number IN 1864

Yvert et Tellier IN 1571

Stanley Gibbons IN 1973

Themes

Stamp Commemorating the Maritime Heritage and Kunjali Marakkar

Design Elements:

Stamp Design:

  • Description: Features the war-paroe, a small but significant naval craft used by the Marakkar Admirals, showcasing its role in the naval battles against Portuguese forces.
  • Visuals: The stamp depicts the war-paroe, highlighting its unique design and function in the guerilla warfare strategy employed by the Marakkars. The illustration emphasizes the craft’s maneuverability and the strategic advantage it provided in coastal and lagoon-based combat.

Key Features:

  • Craft Design: The war-paroe is shown with its rowers and its ability to navigate narrow waters and estuaries. The craft’s simple yet effective design is highlighted, including features like its size and maneuverability.
  • Naval Strategy: Depicts the Marakkars’ tactical use of these crafts to conduct surprise attacks and inflict damage on larger Portuguese ships, emphasizing their innovative and daring naval tactics.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

  • Historical Context: Reflects the rich maritime tradition of India, which dates back to ancient times. The depiction of the war-paroe links to the broader narrative of Indian naval prowess and resistance against colonial forces.
  • Cultural Relevance: Honors the legacy of Kunjali Marakkar and his successors, who played a crucial role in defending Indian maritime interests and resisting European colonial domination.

Usage:

  • Educational Tool: Provides insight into India’s maritime history and the role of Kunjali Marakkar in defending against colonial powers.
  • Commemorative: Celebrates the bravery and strategic acumen of the Marakkars and their significant contributions to India’s naval history.

Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set:

  • Historical Preservation: Preserves the memory of the Marakkars’ naval exploits and the significance of their warfare tactics.
  • Cultural Heritage: Highlights the historical significance of Indian maritime heritage and the resistance against foreign domination.

Example of the Stamp Design:

  • Main Image: Detailed depiction of the war-paroe in action, with a focus on its design and strategic use in naval battles.
  • Background: Includes elements that represent the coastal and lagoon environments where the Marakkars operated, possibly incorporating elements of the Indian coastline or naval imagery.
  • Text: Brief description of the war-paroe, its role in naval warfare, and the historical context of Kunjali Marakkar’s resistance against Portuguese forces.

The Commemorative Stamp Set Might Include:

  • Main Stamp: Features the war-paroe and highlights the strategic naval warfare of the Marakkars.
  • First Day Cover: Could include imagery related to the Marakkar Admirals, such as portraits or scenes of naval battles, and additional contextual information about their historical impact.

Significance:

The stamp commemorating the war-paroe and Kunjali Marakkar is a tribute to India’s rich maritime heritage and the valor of its naval defenders. It serves as an important reminder of the strategic innovations and resistance efforts that played a crucial role in India’s maritime history.