Birth Centenary of Muthuswami Dikshitar (1775-1835)

Muthuswami Dikshitar

Technical Data

Stamp Set Birth Centenary
Date of Issue March 18, 1976
Denomination 25 p
Quantity 3,000,000
Perforation comb 13½
Printer Security Printing Press, Nashik
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Purple
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 670

Stamp Number IN 716

Yvert et Tellier IN 474

Stanley Gibbons IN 803

Themes

Muthuswami Dikshitar, born in 1775 in Tiruvarur, Thanjavur district, was among the most esteemed composers of Karnatic music. His father, Ramaswami Dikshitar, himself a prominent composer, played a significant role in shaping Muthuswami’s musical journey.

In his youth, Muthuswami studied Sanskrit and Telugu, developing a profound interest in music. At the age of fifteen, he accompanied a saint to Varanasi, where he spent five years. This period exposed him to Hindustani music, influencing his compositions deeply.

Returning to the South, Dikshitar embarked on a journey of musical exploration, composing numerous kritis that praised various deities and temples. His compositions often reflected his experiences and spiritual encounters, such as the vision he received at the shrine of Lord Subramanya in Tiruttani.

Dikshitar’s travels took him to Kanchipuram, where he studied philosophy under Saint Upanishad Brahmendra and set his compositions to the ‘Ramashtapadi’ by the latter. However, his most fruitful years were spent in Tiruvarur, where he taught music and composed extensively.

After his father’s passing, Dikshitar moved to Thanjavur and then Ettayapuram, leaving behind a legacy of several hundred kritis, raga malikas, dance compositions, and more. His compositions were notable for their vivid portrayal of ragas and their divine essence.

Dikshitar’s mastery of the alap tradition and his intricate compositions, infused with the grace of the veena, set him apart as a genius of Karnatic music. His songs, characterized by slow measures and intricate melodies, continue to enchant listeners to this day.

In recognition of his contributions to music, the P & T Department is honored to issue a stamp commemorating Muthuswami Dikshitar, a legendary musician and versatile genius.