60th Anniversary of AVM Studios
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | January 22, 2006 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 600,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ x 13¼ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 2121 Stamp Number IN 2136 Yvert et Tellier IN 1886 Stanley Gibbons IN 2306 WADP Numbering System - WNS IN002.06 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Cameras | Famous people | Men | Movies | Optical Instruments |
Table of Contents
Commemorative Stamp: A.V. Meiyappan (AVM)
Biography and Contributions
- Birth and Early Life: Born on July 28, 1907, in Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu, A.V. Meiyappan, popularly known as AVM, began his career working in his father’s provisions store, which sold gramophone records.
- Early Ventures: Inspired by the entertainment industry, he launched Saraswathi Stores and began producing gramophone records. AVM collaborated with a German company to produce and market records under the Odeon label, expanding beyond classical music to include folk and patriotic songs, which gained immense popularity.
Entry into Cinema
- Film Debut: AVM’s first production, Alli Arjuna, was released in 1935. His directorial debut was Sabhapathy. He introduced several technological innovations in the industry, including the playback system in the film Nanda Kumar and post-synchronization in Sri Valli.
- Founding AVM Studios: Established in November 1945 in Karaikudi, AVM Studios moved to Chennai in 1948, becoming a significant name in the Indian film industry. It’s now one of the largest studios in South Asia and India’s oldest.
Influence and Legacy
- Multilingual Productions: AVM produced films across multiple languages, including Tamil, Kannada, Telugu, Bengali, Hindi, and Sinhala. He introduced iconic artists like Shivaji Ganesan, Raj Kumar, and Kamal Haasan to Indian cinema.
- Notable Productions and Awards: AVM Studios produced acclaimed blockbusters, with stars such as Raj Kapoor, Ashok Kumar, N.T. Rama Rao, and Vijayantimala. His film Hum Panchi Ek Dal Ke won India’s first Gold Medal for Best Children’s Film in 1958.
Social Contributions
- Charitable Initiatives: AVM funded institutions supporting education and healthcare and provided housing and insurance for AVM Studio employees. In 1952, he donated the rights to all Bharathiar songs to the government, making them public property.
Legacy
- Passing: A.V. Meiyappan passed away on August 12, 1979, leaving behind a transformative legacy in Indian cinema. AVM Studios continues to be a symbol of his pioneering spirit and dedication to Indian filmmaking.
Stamp Release
- Issued by India Post: To honor A.V. Meiyappan’s remarkable contributions, India Post released a commemorative stamp celebrating his life, achievements, and lasting impact on Indian cinema.