First War of Independence -1857

On May 9, 1988, India Post released this 60-paise stamp to honor the 131st anniversary of the 1857 Uprising, the first major united challenge to British colonial power. While the British called it a "mutiny," this stamp celebrates it as the "First War of Independence," a turning point that shifted the struggle from isolated protests to a massive national movement. The artwork pays tribute to legendary figures like Rani Lakshmibai, Mangal Pandey, and Bahadur Shah Zafar, whose diverse backgrounds proved that people from all walks of Indian life could unite for a single cause. By featuring these heroes, the stamp serves as a powerful reminder of the courage and sacrifice that laid the groundwork for India’s eventual freedom nearly a century later. It’s a small piece of history that captures the spark that forever changed the subcontinent’s destiny.

Technical data Notes Condition

Date of issue May 9, 1988

Denomination 60 p

Quantity printed 1500000

Printer Security Printing Press, Nashik

Perforation comb 13 x 13½

Watermark No Watermark

Colours Multicolor

Catalogue codes Michel IN 1158 Stamp Number IN 1219 Yvert et Tellier IN 972A Stanley Gibbons IN 1311

Themes Horses

Notes

Notes from collectors

No public notes on this stamp yet.

Keep your own notes on this stamp, for yourself or to share with other collectors. Sign in

Have a question about this stamp? Start a discussion about it

Record the condition of the stamps in your collection. Sign in

About this stamp

Commemorative Stamp Set: First War of Independence Remembering May 10, 1857

Design Elements:

The stamp design could feature iconic figures such as Mangal Pandey, Rani Lakshmi Bai, Bahadur Shah Zafar, Tantia Tope, Nana Saheb, and Begum Hazrat Mahal.
Background elements could include symbols of unity, such as the Indian flag or symbols representing various religions and cultures.
Colors could be patriotic, reflecting the spirit of resistance and unity against colonial rule.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

May 10, 1857, marks the beginning of the Indian Rebellion of 1857, also known as the First War of Independence.
It symbolizes India’s first major uprising against British colonial rule, driven by a desire for freedom, justice, and independence.
The rebellion brought together people from diverse backgrounds, religions, and regions, united in their fight against oppression and injustice.

Usage:

The commemorative stamps can be used for postage and collections by philatelists.
They serve as educational tools to remind people of India’s struggle for independence and the sacrifices made by its leaders and people.

Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set:

This stamp set pays tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought for India’s independence in 1857.
It highlights the unity and diversity of India’s freedom struggle, showcasing how people from all walks of life came together for a common cause.
It serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination of the Indian people in their quest for freedom and self-rule.

Example of the Stamp Design:

The stamp design could feature portraits of leaders like Rani Lakshmi Bai on one stamp, Mangal Pandey on another, and Bahadur Shah Zafar on another, with thematic backgrounds reflecting their contributions and the spirit of the rebellion.
Each stamp could be intricately designed to capture the essence of the leader it represents, their role in the rebellion, and their significance in Indian history.

Significance:

The commemorative stamp set honors the legacy of May 10, 1857, as a pivotal moment in India’s struggle for independence.
It commemorates the courage, unity, and sacrifice of those who fought against colonial rule, inspiring generations with their spirit of resistance and determination.

This commemorative stamp set serves as a poignant reminder of India’s historic struggle for freedom, celebrating the bravery and ideals of its leaders and people during the Indian Rebellion of 1857.