Pandit Suryanarayan Vyas (1902-1976)

Pandit Suryanarayan Vyas

Technical Data

Stamp Set Personality Series
Date of Issue June 22, 2002
Denomination Rs. 5
Quantity 400000
Perforation Syncopated 13
Printer Calcutta Security Printers Ltd
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Multicolor
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 1908

Stamp Number IN 1960

Yvert et Tellier IN 1672

Stanley Gibbons IN 2074

WADP Numbering System - WNS IN020.02

Themes

Pandit Suryanarayan Vyas (1902-1976)

Pandit Suryanarayan Vyas (1902-1976) was an esteemed astrologer, scholar, and cultural activist from India. He made significant contributions to the fields of literature, astrology, and Indian heritage, and was deeply committed to promoting India’s rich cultural traditions.

Key Contributions and Achievements:

  1. Astrology:
    • Pandit Vyas was highly regarded as a scholar of astrology, writing numerous books and conducting research that contributed to the popularization of this ancient science.
    • He authored over 50 books, many of which explored Indian astrology, making it accessible to a wide audience.
  2. Cultural Promotion:
    • He founded the All India Kalidas Festival in 1928 in Ujjain, an annual event celebrating the works of Kavi Kalidas, a legendary Sanskrit poet and dramatist. This festival is still celebrated and serves as a testament to Pandit Vyas’ dedication to promoting Indian classical literature and arts.
    • His efforts helped revive interest in India’s classical arts and literary traditions, linking the common man to India’s rich cultural heritage.
  3. Freedom Struggle:
    • Pandit Vyas was actively involved in India’s freedom struggle during his youth. He played a leadership role in the Satyagraha Movements in Malwa and Ajmer, for which he was jailed by the British rulers.
    • His participation in the freedom movement demonstrated his commitment to both national pride and cultural preservation.
  4. Promoting Indian History and Culture through Films:
    • He was instrumental in the creation of two historical filmsKavi Kalidas and Samrat Vikramaditya—which showcased India’s glorious past and fostered a sense of pride among Indians.
    • These films were part of his broader mission to connect Indians to their cultural roots.
  5. Honors:
    • For his contributions to Indian culture and literature, Pandit Suryanarayan Vyas was honored with the Padma Bhushan in 1958, one of India’s highest civilian awards.

Legacy:

Pandit Vyas left a lasting legacy by blending the cultural renaissance of India with a strong foundation in astrology and scholarship. His commitment to promoting Indian classical arts, his scholarly contributions, and his role in India’s freedom movement ensured that his influence would be felt for generations.

His work in organizing the Kalidas Festival continues to be celebrated, and his books remain valuable resources in the study of astrology and Indian culture. Pandit Vyas is remembered as a pioneer in cultural preservation, a scholar, and a freedom fighter who played a crucial role in shaping modern India’s cultural and intellectual landscape.