C. Sankaran Nair (1857-1934)

C. Sankaran Nair

Technical Data

Stamp Set Personality Series
Date of Issue July 6, 2001
Denomination Rs. 4
Quantity 400,000
Perforation comb 13
Printer Eagle Press Ltd.
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Multicolor
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 1837

Stamp Number IN 1896

Yvert et Tellier IN 1603

Stanley Gibbons IN 2003

Themes

C. Sankaran Nair (1857-1934)

C. Sankaran Nair (1857-1934) was a prominent Indian nationalist, lawyer, and judge, who played a significant role in India’s struggle for independence. Here is a detailed look at his life and contributions:

Early Life and Education

  • Born: November 8, 1857, in North Kerala, India.
  • Education: Sankaran Nair studied at the Presidency College in Madras (now Chennai) and later pursued law at the University of London, where he qualified as a barrister.
  • Lawyer: He established himself as a distinguished lawyer in India, known for his expertise and eloquence in legal matters.
  • Judge: Sankaran Nair served as a Judge of the High Court of Madras, where he was recognized for his judicial competence and integrity.

Political and Nationalist Activities

  • Viceroy’s Council: In 1919, he was nominated to the Viceroy’s Council, a position that gave him a platform to influence British policy.
  • Indian National Congress: He was elected President of the Indian National Congress in 1897, contributing significantly to the early nationalist movement.

Dissent and Resignation

  • Notes of Dissent: As a member of the Viceroy’s Council, Nair’s notes of dissent against British policies, particularly in relation to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and other British injustices, were impactful.
  • Resignation: In the same year, he resigned from the Viceroy’s Council in protest against British atrocities in Punjab. His resignation was met with widespread acclaim and demonstrated his commitment to Indian rights and justice.

Social and Educational Contributions

  • Educationist: Nair was also an advocate for education and social reform, contributing to various educational and social initiatives in India.
  • Author: He wrote extensively on topics related to Indian history and politics, influencing contemporary and future discourse.

Legacy

  • Nationalist Leader: C. Sankaran Nair is remembered for his principled stand against British colonial rule and his significant contributions to the Indian nationalist movement.
  • Inspirational Figure: His efforts in advocating for Indian sovereignty and justice continue to inspire future generations.

Commemorative Stamp

  • Design: The stamp honoring C. Sankaran Nair likely features a portrait or symbolic representation of his contributions to India’s independence movement.

Nair’s dedication to the cause of Indian nationalism and his role as a legal and political reformer make him a key figure in India’s history, celebrated through this postage stamp.