Muhammad Ismail Sahib (1896-1972)

Muhammad Ismail Saheb

Technical Data

Stamp Set Birth Centenary
Date of Issue June 5, 1996
Denomination Rs. 1
Quantity 400,000
Perforation comb 13 x 13½
Printer Security Printing Press, Nashik
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Reddish purple
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 1506

Stamp Number IN 1568

Yvert et Tellier IN 1283

Stanley Gibbons IN 1670

Themes Anniversaries and Jubilees | Famous people | Headgear | Men | Optical Instruments | Politicians

Muhammad Ismail Sahib (1896-1972)

Muhammad Ismail Sahib, a notable figure in Indian politics and the freedom movement, is honored with a commemorative postage stamp issued by the Department of Post. Here’s a summary of his contributions and significance:

Biography and Contributions

  • Birth:
    • Muhammad Ismail Sahib was born on June 5, 1896, in Pettai, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu.
  • Role in Freedom Movement:
    • He actively participated in the Khilafat Movement, responding to Mahatma Gandhi’s call for student involvement.
    • His leadership in the movement was significant in Tamil Nadu.
  • Political Career:
    • 1945:
      • Elected President of the Madras State Muslim League.
    • 1948:
      • Became President of the Indian Union Muslim League and continued in this role until his death.
      • He is credited with restructuring the Indian Union Muslim League on secular lines, which bolstered democratic and secular forces in India.
  • Legislative Roles:
    • 1946-1952:
      • Served as a Member of the Tamil Nadu (Madras) Assembly.
  • Constituent Assembly:
    • Played a key role in drafting the Indian Constitution.
    • 1952:
      • Elected to the Rajya Sabha.
    • 1962, 1967, 1971:
      • Elected to the Lok Sabha from Manjeri constituency in Kerala.
  • Advocacy for Communal Goodwill:
    • Ismail Sahib was a proponent of communal harmony, emphasizing that those who harm communal goodwill are worse than murderers.
    • His efforts in promoting communal harmony earned him the title Quaid-e-Milleth, meaning “guide of the Muslim Community.”

Commemorative Stamp

The Department of Post issued a postage stamp on June 5, 1996, to mark the birth centenary of Muhammad Ismail Sahib. This stamp commemorates his contributions to the Indian freedom movement, his role in shaping the Indian Constitution, and his dedication to communal harmony.

The issuance of this stamp serves as a tribute to his enduring legacy and contributions to India’s democratic and secular values.