60th Anniversary of Bombay Women’s University

Bombay Women's University

Technical Data

Date of Issue September 3, 1976
Denomination 25 p
Quantity 3,000,000
Perforation comb 13½
Printer Security Printing Press, Nashik
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Violet
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 687

Stamp Number IN 730

Yvert et Tellier IN 489

Stanley Gibbons IN 820

Themes

The year 1916 marked a significant milestone in the history of women’s higher education in India with the establishment of the Indian Women’s University by Dr. Dhondo Keshav Karve at Hingne, near Poona, starting with just four students. In a society bound by age-old customs and outdated attitudes towards women, this institution faced numerous social and economic challenges. However, in 1920, Sir Vithaldas Thackersey, impressed by Dr. Karve’s pioneering work, donated Rs. 15 lakhs to the university in memory of his mother. Consequently, the institution was renamed Shreemati Nathibai Damodar Thackersey Indian Women’s University.

In 1936, the university’s headquarters were moved to Bombay, and it continued to expand, offering higher education to an increasing number of women. By 1951, the university received statutory recognition, accelerating its progress. Today, it is a distinguished center of higher education with faculties in Arts, Social Science, Fine Arts, Home Science, Education, Nursing, and Library Science. The university boasts 22 affiliated and conducted colleges, 3 campuses, over 20,000 students, and 600 faculty members.

Throughout its growth, the university has maintained its innovative approach by offering instruction in the mother tongue, encouraging external students, and providing professional and job-oriented courses tailored to the evolving needs of women. In July 1976, the university inaugurated a Polytechnic at Juhu with branches in Medical Technology and Commercial and Secretarial Practices.

The university’s responsiveness to contemporary needs is further demonstrated by the establishment of the Department of Continuing Education and the launch of a Research Unit for Women’s Studies. Plans are underway to add faculties of Pure Science, Social Work, and Commerce, with a focus on interdisciplinary and inter-departmental programs leveraging resources from various departments.

Reflecting on its journey, the university has played a crucial role in spreading knowledge among women and continually exploring new areas to enhance women’s access to higher education. In recognition of its contributions, the Indian Posts and Telegraphs Department is honored to issue a special postage stamp commemorating the Diamond Jubilee of this pioneering institution.