Jawaharlal Darda (1923-1997)

Commemorative Stamp Set: Shri Jawaharlal Darda – A Tribute to a Freedom Fighter, Journalist, and Visionary

Design Elements

• Central Imagery: The stamp features a portrait of Shri Jawaharlal Darda, showcasing his determined and compassionate demeanor. To symbolize his contributions to both journalism and social service, the background features a blend of newspaper elements and symbols of rural development and education.
• Color Scheme: Earthy tones of red, orange, and brown are used to represent the warmth of his dedication to his community, with green highlights symbolizing his commitment to agricultural and environmental causes.
• Text and Inscriptions: The inscription reads “Shri Jawaharlal Darda – A Champion of People-Oriented Journalism and Social Service,” along with the dates of birth and death, July 2, 1923 – November 25, 1997.

Cultural and Historical Significance

• Shri Jawaharlal Darda was a key figure in Maharashtra’s freedom struggle and a pioneer of people-oriented journalism in the state. His role in the Quit India Movement and his subsequent involvement in the founding of Lokmat, one of Maharashtra’s leading newspapers, marks a significant contribution to both India’s freedom movement and its media landscape.
• Darda’s leadership extended beyond journalism, playing an instrumental role in cooperative and agricultural movements in Maharashtra, and his efforts toward uplifting the poor and oppressed through education, social service, and governance are widely recognized.
• He was also deeply involved in the Vinoba Bhave’s Bhoodan Movement, highlighting his commitment to social justice and rural development.
• As a Minister in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, Darda’s innovative work in energy, industry, irrigation, and health transformed the state’s infrastructure and contributed to its economic growth. His role in the expansion of the Koradi Thermal Power Station and his establishment of the Amolchand Darda Mahavidyalaya stand as lasting legacies.

Usage

• Postage: This commemorative stamp serves as a tribute to Shri Darda’s life and work, suitable for everyday postal use as well as special commemorations.
• Public Awareness and Education: The stamp can be used to promote awareness of Darda’s influence in Maharashtra’s media, politics, and social movements, inspiring future generations of activists, journalists, and public servants.
• Philatelic Collections: This stamp will be a valuable addition to collections focused on freedom fighters, journalists, and political leaders who contributed to post-independence India.

Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set

• The commemorative stamp set celebrates the lifelong contributions of Shri Jawaharlal Darda, particularly in the realms of journalism, education, and rural development. The stamp encapsulates his legacy as a visionary leader, who worked relentlessly for the betterment of society through his work in the press and governance, earning him the title ‘Vikas Purush’ (Man of Development).

Example of the Stamp Design

• Primary Stamp: Features a detailed portrait of Shri Jawaharlal Darda, with his iconic newspaper “Lokmat” in the background, symbolizing his commitment to the press.
• Additional Imagery: Incorporates symbols of rural development, education, and social service, reflecting Darda’s contributions in those fields.

The Commemorative Stamp Set Might Include:

• First Day Cover: Depicting a combination of Darda’s portrait and the Lokmat logo, symbolizing his contribution to journalism.
• Miniature Sheet: Featuring illustrations of Darda’s key achievements—such as the Koradi Power Station and his work in rural development and education.
• Informational Brochure: Detailing his journey as a freedom fighter, journalist, and politician, along with the impact of his work on Maharashtra’s growth.

Significance

• This commemorative stamp not only honors Shri Jawaharlal Darda for his contributions to journalism and social service but also immortalizes his efforts to transform Maharashtra into a state of progress and empowerment for the common people. Through this stamp, India Post acknowledges his role in shaping the state’s social and economic fabric, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire future generations.