Narayan Ganesh Goray (1907-1993)
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | May 1, 1998 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 2 |
| Quantity | 400,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 x 13½ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Printing Process | Photogravure |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Red Brown |
| Credit (Designed By) | Mr. Shekhar Godbole |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1622 Stamp Number IN 1687 Yvert et Tellier IN 1390 Stanley Gibbons IN 1787 |
| Themes | Commemoration | Famous people | Freedom Fighters | Men | Reformers |
Introduction
Narayan Ganesh Goray, popularly known as Nanasaheb Goray, was a noted socialist leader, freedom fighter, thinker, writer, and social reformer from Maharashtra. He dedicated his life to the cause of independence, democracy, equality, and social justice.
Early Life and Education
He was born on 15 June 1907 in a middle-class family at Hindale, a remote village in Sindhudurg, then part of Ratnagiri district in Konkan, Maharashtra. He studied at Fergusson College, Pune, where he graduated in 1929 and later completed his L.L.B. degree in 1935.
Participation in Freedom Struggle
As a young man, Nanasaheb Goray was deeply influenced by the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. He actively participated in the Salt Satyagraha and Forest Satyagraha movements during the early 1930s.
He also took part in the Quit India Movement of 1942 and was imprisoned several times. He joined a satyagraha in Gulbarga in the former Hyderabad State and was kept in confinement.
Socialist Leadership
He was a founder member of the Congress Socialist Party in 1934 and remained associated with it until its dissolution. After independence, he emerged as one of the leading national figures of the Socialist Party and served as Chairman of the Praja Socialist Party for five years.
He also participated in the satyagraha movement for the liberation of Goa from Portuguese rule and was jailed for his efforts.
Public Service
Nanasaheb Goray served as the Mayor of Pune during 1968–69. He was elected to the Rajya Sabha in 1970 and remained a Member of Parliament until 1976.
Later, he served as India’s High Commissioner to England from 1977 to 1979.
Literary Contributions
He was an eminent thinker and prolific writer in English and Marathi. Through his writings, he strongly advocated social justice, equality, socialism, and democracy.
He wrote twenty-six books in Marathi, including History of America and several books on socialism and democracy. He also wrote short stories and literary essays. His writing was admired for its vigour and elegant style.
Personality and Legacy
Nanasaheb Goray was known as a great rationalist and powerful orator. His speeches were respected for their clarity of thought and strong ideas.
He passed away on 1 May 1993, leaving behind a rich legacy of public service and intellectual contribution.
Commemorative Stamp
A commemorative postage stamp was issued on the death anniversary of Nanasaheb N. G. Gore, honouring the life and service of this great Marathi socialist leader.
Conclusion
Nanasaheb Goray was a fearless freedom fighter, visionary socialist, and distinguished writer whose life was devoted to building a just and democratic society. He remains an inspiring figure in modern Indian history.
First Day Cover
