Birth Centenary of Legends

Celebrating the Birth Centenary of Indian Cinema Legends with Commemorative Stamps

India is celebrating the birth centenary of five legendary figures of Indian cinema who defined the golden era of storytelling, music, and visual artistry. To honor their remarkable legacy, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, in collaboration with the Department of Posts, is releasing a special set of commemorative postage stamps at the inaugural edition of the World Audio Video & Entertainment Summit (WAVES-2025), scheduled from 1st to 4th May 2025 in Mumbai.

The Summit, envisioned as a global platform for creators, policymakers, and innovators in the world of audiovisual arts, opens with a grand inaugural ceremony on 1st May 2025. As its highlight, India Post unveils a miniature sheet of five stamps, immortalizing the enduring contributions of Shri Guru Dutt, Shri Ritwik Ghatak, Shri Salil Chowdhury, Shri Raj Khosla, and Ms. P. Bhanumathi.

This philatelic tribute reflects the nation’s gratitude to these cinematic pioneers whose timeless works continue to inspire audiences and filmmakers across the globe.

Guru Dutt – The Poet of Indian Cinema

A visionary filmmaker and one of the most revered auteurs of Indian cinema, Guru Dutt is celebrated for his unmatched storytelling and visual brilliance. As an actor, director, producer, and writer, he redefined film narratives with classics like Pyaasa, Kaagaz Ke Phool, and Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam. His mastery of lighting, camera movement, and music integration turned films into lyrical masterpieces. Though his career was tragically brief, his legacy continues to inspire filmmakers worldwide.

Ritwik Ghatak – Voice of Parallel Cinema

A pioneering force in Indian parallel cinema, Ritwik Ghatak reshaped the grammar of filmmaking through his deeply personal and socially conscious works. Films like Meghe Dhaka Tara, Subarnarekha, and Komal Gandhar portrayed the anguish of Partition, displacement, and cultural identity with unflinching honesty. Known for blending folklore and mythology with modern realities, Ghatak’s influence now extends far beyond India, studied and revered by global filmmakers and scholars.

Salil Chowdhury – The Melody Maker

Salil Chowdhury, affectionately called Salilda, was a rare genius — a music composer, lyricist, and poet who seamlessly blended Indian classical and folk music with Western orchestration. His songs in films like Madhumati, Do Bigha Zamin, and Anand remain iconic for their emotional depth and universal appeal. His compositions, spanning Hindi, Bengali, Malayalam, and more, transcended boundaries. A firm believer in art as a tool for social change, his music continues to resonate with truth and harmony.

Raj Khosla – The Master of Genres

One of the foremost directors of Hindi cinema’s golden age, Raj Khosla was known for his versatility and elegance in filmmaking. From suspense thrillers (Woh Kaun Thi, Mera Saaya) to romantic sagas (Do Badan, Main Tulsi Tere Aangan Ki) and action films, Khosla excelled in every genre. He was celebrated for crafting strong female characters and weaving music into the very soul of his films. His works entertained millions while raising the narrative standard of mainstream cinema.

P. Bhanumathi – A Trailblazer of South Indian Cinema

P. Bhanumathi was a true pioneer — an actress, singer, director, and writer who shattered barriers in Indian cinema. She brought power and grace to her performances in Telugu and Tamil films, while her directorial ventures addressed bold social themes. As one of India’s earliest female filmmakers, she paved the way for women behind the camera. Her courage and multifaceted artistry continue to inspire generations, making her a beacon of empowerment.

Philatelic Tribute: Miniature Sheet Release

The Department of Posts proudly releases a Miniature Sheet of five commemorative stamps celebrating the Birth Centenary of Indian Cinema Legends. Each stamp is a collector’s treasure, honoring the vision, artistry, and cultural impact of these luminaries who shaped Indian cinema’s golden era.

For philatelists and cinephiles alike, this issue is a rare confluence of history, art, and storytelling — a timeless keepsake of India’s cinematic heritage.