Homage To Martyrs (Se-Tenant)

Homage To Martyrs

Technical Data

Stamp Set Homage to Martyrs for Independence
Date of Issue August 15, 1998
Denomination Rs. 11
Quantity 700000
Perforation comb 14
Printer Security Printing Press, Nashik
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Multicolor
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 1639-1640

Stamp Number IN 1701a

Yvert et Tellier IN 1405-1406

Stanley Gibbons IN 1803a

Themes

Commemorative Stamp: India’s Struggle for Independence and Post-Independence Achievements

Design Elements:

  1. Main Image:
    • Progression of History: The stamp set portrays a sequence of images, moving from left to right, symbolizing key moments in India’s struggle for independence and its subsequent achievements in the post-independence era.
      • Left Side: The struggle for freedom, including representations of mass movements, iconic leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, and symbolic events such as the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
      • Center: The moment of independence on August 15, 1947, represented by the Indian flag being hoisted.
      • Right Side: Post-independence achievements, showcasing industrial, scientific, and technological advancements, with a focus on India’s space program and Antarctic exploration.
  2. Background Elements:
    • Freedom Fighters: Subtle imagery of freedom fighters, including the Indian National Army and the leaders of various revolutionary and non-cooperation movements.
    • Symbol of Unity: The Ashoka Chakra, representing unity and continuity from the freedom struggle to the modern era.
    • Industrial Growth: Depictions of factories, scientific equipment, and technological advancements, symbolizing India’s progress after independence.
  3. Text:
    • Message: “India’s Journey to Freedom and Progress”
    • Placement: Across the bottom of the stamps, ensuring visibility and clarity.
  4. Colors:
    • Color Scheme: A blend of vibrant colors like saffron, white, and green to represent the national flag, transitioning into shades of blue and silver to symbolize scientific and technological achievements.

Stamp Description:

India’s Struggle for Independence:

  • Historical Overview: This commemorative stamp set honors India’s long and arduous journey towards independence, which culminated on August 15, 1947. The British rule in India was met with resistance from various sections of society, including peasants, tribal people, and revolutionaries. The first widespread armed uprising in 1857 marked a significant turning point, shaking the foundations of British power. Despite brutal repression, the spirit of resistance continued, eventually giving rise to a nationwide movement for self-rule, with Mahatma Gandhi emerging as a central figure.

Post-Independence Achievements:

  • Nation-Building: The right side of the stamp set highlights India’s achievements in the decades following independence. It showcases the country’s rapid industrialization, advancements in science and technology, and contributions to global exploration, such as the successful missions to Antarctica and space exploration.

Symbolism of the Design:

  • Historical Progression: The stamp’s design captures the essence of India’s transition from a colony under British rule to a sovereign nation capable of achieving remarkable feats in various fields.
  • Tribute to Martyrs: The design pays homage to the countless men and women who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for freedom, as well as those who contributed to building a modern India.

Textual Element:

  • Message from Dr. Rajendra Prasad: The words of India’s first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, delivered on the eve of independence, resonate in the design, serving as a reminder of the sacrifices made and the responsibility of nation-building.

Usage:

This stamp set is issued to commemorate the 50th anniversary of India’s independence, celebrating the nation’s journey from colonial subjugation to a leader in various fields of global significance.

Significance:

The commemorative stamp set serves as a visual narrative of India’s struggle for independence and its subsequent achievements. It is a tribute to the resilience, sacrifice, and progress of the Indian people, capturing the essence of a nation that emerged from colonial rule to become a beacon of hope, innovation, and unity in the modern world.