Asutosh Mookerjee 1864-1924
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Birth Centenary |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | June 29, 1964 |
| Denomination | INR 0.15 |
| Quantity | 2,500,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ x 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | Asokan Capital Multiple [Up] |
| Colors | Bistre brown | Yellow olive |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 374 Stamp Number IN 389 Yvert et Tellier IN 175 Stanley Gibbons IN 488 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Famous people | Men | Reformers |
The Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi issued a statement on June 24, 1964, commemorating the birth centenary of Dr. Asutosh Mookerjee. Dr. Mookerjee, born in Calcutta on June 29, 1864, was renowned not only as a lawyer and jurist but also as an educational reformer, particularly in the realm of university education.
President Radhakrishnan hailed Dr. Mookerjee’s fearless independence and his efforts to transform the University of Calcutta into a center of post-graduate education and research. Despite facing significant challenges, Dr. Mookerjee fought to maintain the autonomy of the university until his retirement from the Calcutta High Court.
Dr. Mookerjee’s early life and education were marked by exceptional brilliance, and he quickly rose to prominence in the legal profession. However, his true passion lay in the field of education, where he made significant contributions throughout his life.
As Vice Chancellor of the University of Calcutta, Dr. Mookerjee introduced groundbreaking reforms that made university education accessible to a wide range of students and elevated the institution to global prominence. He pioneered postgraduate education and research in India, recognizing the importance of advancing knowledge in all fields.
Dr. Mookerjee’s influence extended beyond academia. He held prominent positions in public life in Bengal, including as a Commissioner of the Calcutta Corporation and a member of the Bengal Legislative Council. He was known for his liberal views on social matters and his unwavering commitment to nationalism.
Despite his illustrious legal and educational career, Dr. Mookerjee remained humble and unostentatious in his personal habits. He passed away in 1924, leaving behind a legacy of activity and achievement that transcended his roles as a lawyer, judge, and educationist.
The P & T Department considered it a privilege to honor Dr. Mookerjee’s memory with a special commemorative stamp on his birth anniversary, recognizing his contributions as a great lawyer, judge, and educationist, as well as his enduring impact on Indian society.