About this stamp
Kasinadhuni Nageswara Rao Pantulu, affectionately known as Desoddharaka, was a multifaceted figure in Andhra’s freedom movement. Born on May 1, 1867, in Elakurru village, he became a prominent journalist, nationalist, politician, and advocate for the khadi movement and library movement.
Educated at the prestigious Madras Christian College under Dr. Rev. Miller, Nageswara Rao ventured into journalism during a transformative period in Indian journalism. Facing government resistance, he fearlessly launched the Andhra Patrika weekly in Bombay in 1908, followed by the Telugu daily Andhra Patrika in Madras in 1914. These publications became instrumental in reflecting the nation’s heritage and interpreting political trends to the people of Andhra.
In addition to journalism, Nageswara Rao was a renowned Telugu litterateur and publisher. He founded the Andhra Grandha Mala publishing house in 1926, producing numerous books and modern writings, all priced affordably to make knowledge accessible to the masses. He also spearheaded the library movement in Andhra, establishing over 120 libraries in the region during the early 20th century.
Nageswara Rao’s political career was equally illustrious. A stalwart congressman, he served as President of the Andhra Provincial Congress Committee for four terms from 1924 to 1934. He played a significant role in promoting Gandhiji’s constructive programs, particularly the khadi movement and the salt satyagraha, which he led successfully in Andhra.
His contributions earned him widespread respect and admiration, and he was fondly remembered as a patriot and modern-day Karna of Andhra Pradesh. Nageswara Rao passed away in 1938, leaving behind a legacy of courage, nationalism, and service to the nation.
In honor of his remarkable life and contributions to the freedom movement, the P&T Department commemorates Nageswara Rao Pantulu with a special postage stamp, paying tribute to this great son of Andhra Pradesh and India.
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