Dr. Burgula Ramakrishna Rao (1899-1967)

Dr. Burugula Ramakrishna Rao

Technical Data

Stamp Set Birth Centenary
Date of Issue March 13, 2000
Denomination Rs. 3
Quantity 400,000
Perforation comb 13 x 13½
Printer Calcutta Security Printers Ltd
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Multicolor
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 1747

Stamp Number IN 1808

Yvert et Tellier IN 1513

Stanley Gibbons IN 1910

Themes

Commemorative Stamp: Dr. Burgula Ramakrishna Rao

Design Elements:

Stamp Design:

  • Central Image: The stamp features a portrait of Dr. Burgula Ramakrishna Rao, showcasing his dignified and visionary leadership.
  • Additional Imagery: Symbols related to his contributions, such as elements representing the Hyderabad State, the Hyderabad Tenancy and Agricultural Act, and the Bhoodan Movement, may be included.
  • Text: The stamp includes the name “Dr. Burgula Ramakrishna Rao” and dates of his birth and death (1899-1967), as well as the key milestones of his career.

First Day Cover (FDC) Design:

  • Illustration: The FDC might depict historical scenes related to Dr. Rao’s contributions, such as his role in the freedom struggle, land reforms, or the Bhoodan Movement.
  • Cancellation Mark: The cancellation mark may feature a stylized representation of Hyderabad’s landmarks or symbols associated with Dr. Rao’s achievements.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

Historical Context:

  • Early Career: Dr. Rao began his career as a prominent constitutional lawyer and took a leading role in the freedom struggle against the Nizam of Hyderabad.
  • Freedom Movement: He was a key figure in the merger of Hyderabad with the Indian Union and played a significant role in the ‘Quit India Movement’ and the 1947 freedom struggle.

Leadership and Governance:

  • Chief Minister: Dr. Rao was elected as the first Chief Minister of Hyderabad State in 1952, where he introduced landmark land reforms and social welfare measures.
  • Land Reforms: He was instrumental in the passage and implementation of the Hyderabad Tenancy and Agricultural Act, providing tenancy rights and advancing agricultural reforms.
  • Social Welfare: His tenure saw the launch of the Bhoodan Movement by Acharya Vinoba Bhave and various measures for the benefit of scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and backward classes.

Later Roles:

  • Governorship: Dr. Rao served as Governor of Kerala (1956-1960) and Uttar Pradesh (1960-1962).
  • Rajya Sabha: He was elected to the Rajya Sabha and served from 1962 to 1966.

Legacy:

  • Cultural Impact: Dr. Rao was also a multilinguistic scholar and poet, with several books and articles to his credit.
  • Recognition: His contributions to the integration of Hyderabad with Andhra and his role in shaping the region’s socio-political landscape are widely acknowledged.

Usage:

  • Educational Purpose: The stamp commemorates Dr. Burgula Ramakrishna Rao’s significant contributions to Indian politics, governance, and social reform, providing educational value about his legacy.
  • Philatelic Collections: The stamp is a valuable addition to collections, honoring a pivotal figure in India’s history and his impact on the nation’s development.

Example of the Stamp Design:

  • Stamp Image: The design prominently features Dr. Burgula Ramakrishna Rao’s portrait with additional motifs symbolizing his achievements in land reform, social welfare, and his role in the freedom struggle.

Significance:

  • The commemorative stamp honors Dr. Burgula Ramakrishna Rao’s legacy and his contributions to the political and social fabric of India, celebrating his role in shaping modern India and his impact on the Hyderabad State’s integration and reform.