Chandraprabha Saikiani (1901-1972)
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Personality Series |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | September 12, 2002 |
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 400,000 |
| Perforation | Syncopated 13¼ |
| Printer | Calcutta Security Printers Ltd |
| Printing Process | Offset Lithography |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Sh. Sankha Samanta |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1917 Stamp Number IN 1968 Yvert et Tellier IN 1682 Stanley Gibbons IN 2083 WADP Numbering System - WNS IN028.02 |
| Themes | Authors | Famous people | Literary People (Poets and Writers) | Literature | Optical Instruments | Reformers | Women |
Pioneer of Women’s Empowerment in Assam
Chandraprabha Saikiani (1901–1972) was a remarkable social reformer, freedom fighter, and writer from Assam who dedicated her life to the upliftment and empowerment of women. Her tireless efforts helped challenge deep-rooted social evils and brought education and dignity to countless women.
Early Life and Vision
Born in the Kamrup district, Chandraprabha Saikiani showed exceptional determination from a young age. At a time when women’s education was neglected, she took the bold step of opening a school for girls while still in her teens, laying the foundation for a broader movement for female education.
Champion of Women’s Rights
She worked relentlessly to:
- Free women from the burden of restrictive domestic roles
- Promote education among girls and women
- Fight against social malpractices and discrimination
Her efforts inspired women across Assam to seek independence, education, and equality.
Assam Pradeshik Mahila Samity
In 1926, she founded the Assam Pradeshik Mahila Samity, a landmark organization for women’s empowerment.
- It expanded to villages across Assam
- Played a key role in promoting education and social awareness
- Became a strong platform for advocating women’s rights and welfare
Role in Freedom Movement
A devoted follower of Mahatma Gandhi, Chandraprabha Saikiani actively participated in the Indian Freedom Movement. Her Gandhian ideals of simplicity, equality, and non-violence guided her social and political work.
Literary Contributions
Apart from her activism, she was also a talented writer:
- Authored poetry and novels
- Used literature as a tool to spread social awareness and reformist ideas
Legacy
Chandraprabha Saikiani remains a symbol of courage and progressive thought in Assam. Her contributions:
- Advanced women’s education and empowerment
- Challenged orthodox social practices
- Inspired generations of women to stand up for their rights
To honour her invaluable contributions, India Post issued a commemorative postage stamp under the Personality Series: Social Reformers, celebrating her enduring legacy as a pioneer of social change.
First Day Cover
