Bhagat Singh

Bhagat Singh

Technical Data

Stamp Set Birth Centenary
Date of Issue October 19, 1968
Denomination 20 nP
Quantity 2,000,000
Perforation comb 13
Printer Security Printing Press, Nashik
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Yellow brown
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 457

Stamp Number IN 473

Yvert et Tellier IN 256

Stanley Gibbons IN 571

Themes

Bhagat Singh, a fearless revolutionary and patriot, left an indelible mark on the struggle for India’s independence. Born in 1907 into a Sikh family with a history of involvement in the freedom movement, Singh’s revolutionary journey began during his teens. Influenced by leaders like Bhai Paramananda and Jaychandra Vidyalankar, he delved into the study of history, economics, and politics, drawing inspiration from revolutions around the world.

In 1928, Singh co-founded the Hindustan Socialist Republican Army (HSRA) with like-minded comrades from Punjab, U.P., Bihar, and Bengal. Their mission was to combat British imperialism through revolutionary acts. The death of respected leader Lala Lajpat Rai at the hands of British authorities in 1928 fueled their resolve to seek justice.

On December 17, 1928, Singh and his comrades executed a daring assassination of Assistant Superintendent of Police Saunders in Lahore, avenging Lala Lajpat Rai’s death. They boldly declared their motives through city-wide posters.

In a daring act on April 8, 1929, Singh and Batukeshwar Datta hurled bombs in the Delhi Assembly Hall, aiming to draw attention to the plight of their country under British rule. Upon arrest, they fearlessly proclaimed their mission to awaken the masses and warn against the impending storm of revolution.

Following a trial, Singh and his comrades were sentenced to various punishments, with Singh ultimately facing the gallows on March 23, 1931. His sacrifice and martyrdom in the cause of India’s liberation remain etched in history.

On October 19, 1968, the Posts & Telegraphs Department honored Bhagat Singh’s legacy by issuing a special postage stamp, commemorating his unwavering commitment to the nation’s freedom struggle. Singh’s courage and sacrifice continue to inspire generations, reminding us of the price paid by those who fought for India’s independence.