Indra Lal Roy (1898-1918)
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Birth Centenary |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | December 19, 1998 |
| Denomination | Rs. 3 |
| Quantity | 400000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 x 13½ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1661 Stamp Number IN 1719 Yvert et Tellier IN 1426 Stanley Gibbons IN 1824 |
| Themes | Aircraft | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Aviation | Famous people | Men | Pilots | |
Table of Contents
Commemorative Stamp: Lt. Indra Lal Roy (1898 – 1918)
Design Elements:
- Central Image: The stamp features a striking portrait of Lt. Indra Lal Roy in his Royal Flying Corps uniform, capturing his determined expression and the spirit of aviation.
- Background: The design includes elements of aerial combat, such as a depiction of an SE5A aircraft and a backdrop of a dogfight scenario, symbolizing his bravery and skill as a pilot.
- Inscriptions: The stamp reads “Lt. Indra Lal Roy (1898 – 1918)” and “Distinguished Flying Cross” to honor his bravery and achievement.
- Symbolic Elements: The design incorporates motifs related to aviation, such as wings and a flying aircraft, to reflect his contributions during World War I.
Historical and Cultural Significance:
- Early Life and Education: Born in Calcutta on December 2, 1898, Lt. Roy was a brilliant student who pursued higher education at Oxford University. His passion for aviation led him to join the Royal Flying Corps at a young age.
- Aviation Career: Lt. Roy was commissioned into the Royal Flying Corps on July 5, 1917. He was posted to the 56 Squadron of the Royal Air Force (RAF) in France, where he excelled in aerial combat.
- Remarkable Achievements: During his service, Lt. Roy achieved the extraordinary feat of shooting down ten German aircraft within fourteen days in July 1918, demonstrating remarkable skill and courage.
- Heroic End: Lt. Roy’s career was tragically cut short when he was killed in a dogfight over Estevelles, France, on July 22, 1918. He was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, becoming the first Indian to receive this honor.
Usage:
- Postal Circulation: The stamp is used for regular postal services and serves to commemorate Lt. Indra Lal Roy’s contributions to aviation and military history.
- Educational Events: Issued during events related to aviation history, World War I, and military valor, the stamp educates and inspires future generations about Lt. Roy’s legacy.
- Collectibles: The stamp is a valuable collectible for philatelists, historians, and those interested in aviation and military history.
Example of the Stamp Design:
- Image: Lt. Indra Lal Roy is portrayed in his flying gear, with a background showing his aircraft and a scene of aerial combat.
- Details: The stamp includes the date of his birth, death, and the recognition of his Distinguished Flying Cross, alongside an illustration of the SE5A aircraft he flew.
Significance:
The commemorative stamp honors Lt. Indra Lal Roy’s exceptional bravery and contributions during World War I. It highlights his status as a pioneering Indian pilot who distinguished himself in combat and received the prestigious Distinguished Flying Cross for his valor.
Stamp Set Components:
- Series of Stamps: A collection featuring different aspects of Lt. Indra Lal Roy’s life and career, including his achievements and contributions to aviation.
- Informative Brochure: A brochure detailing his life, service, and the impact of his achievements on aviation history.
- First Day Covers: Special covers featuring artwork related to Lt. Roy’s achievements and legacy, adding to the collectible value of the set.
Educational and Cultural Impact:
The stamp serves as an educational tool to commemorate Lt. Indra Lal Roy’s contributions to aviation and military history. It celebrates his bravery and inspires future generations to honor the legacy of this distinguished Indian pilot.