C. N. Annadurai
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Death Centenary |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | February 3, 1970 |
| Denomination | 20 nP |
| Quantity | 3,500,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Blue | Reddish purple |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 493 Stamp Number IN 509 Yvert et Tellier IN 292 Stanley Gibbons IN 607 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Famous people | Journalists | Men | Statesmen |
C. N. Annadurai, affectionately known as “ANNA” among millions of Tamilians, was born on September 15, 1909, in a lower middle-class family in Kancheepyram. Educated at Pachaiappa’s High School and later Pachiappa’s College in Madras, he demonstrated remarkable skills in oratory in both Tamil and English, as well as a talent for journalism from a young age.
His editorial journey began with Tamil weeklies such as “Bala Bharati” and “Nava Yuvan” in Madras, followed by stints at English publications like “Justice” and “Viduthalai.” In 1942, he founded his own weekly, “Dravida Nadu,” and later edited publications like “Kanchi,” “Homeland,” and “Home Rule.”
Beyond journalism, Annadurai was a prolific writer, storyteller, and renowned dialogue writer, celebrated for his descriptive passages and conversational style. He was also known for his theatrical performances and outstanding oratory skills, capable of captivating vast audiences with his wit, sarcasm, and humor.
Annadurai’s organizational prowess was evident in his role alongside Periyar in consolidating the Justice Party, later renamed the Dravida Kazhagam, which eventually split, with the majority following Annadurai to form the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). Under his leadership, the DMK made significant political strides, winning elections and securing seats in parliament.
In 1967, Annadurai was elected as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, where he served with sobriety, simplicity, and sincerity, earning universal respect and affection. He implemented measures like the “rupee-a-measure of rice scheme,” demonstrating his commitment to the welfare of the common man.
Annadurai’s passion for Tamil language and literature was evident in his successful organization of the World Tamil Conference in Madras in 1968. He also embarked on a world tour as a guest of prestigious institutions like Yale University, where he became the first non-American to receive the Chubb Fellowship.
His untimely passing on February 3, 1969, marked the loss of a great patriot and leader. On the first anniversary of his death, the Posts & Telegraphs Department pays tribute to his memory by issuing a special stamp in his honor.