Rani Durgawati
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | June 24, 1988 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | 60 p |
| Quantity | 1,000,000 |
| Perforation | Comb 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Deep Pink Red |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1170 Stamp Number IN 1232 Yvert et Tellier IN 983 Stanley Gibbons IN 1322 |
| Themes | Commemoration | Famous people | Queens | Swords | Women |
Commemorative Stamp: Rani Durgawati
Design Elements:
- Main Theme: Honoring Rani Durgawati, a symbol of courage, wisdom, and governance.
- Imagery: Features a portrait of Rani Durgawati, with elements depicting her reign, battles, and contributions to her kingdom.
Biography and Achievements:
- Early Life: Born to Raja Salivahan of Rath and Mahoba, of the Chandela dynasty. Married Dalpat Shah, ruler of Gondwana, who passed away in 1548 AD.
- Regency: Governed Gondwana from 1548 to 1564 AD, with the assistance of ministers Adhar Kayastha and Man Brahman. Under her rule, trade flourished and the people prospered.
- Military Prowess: Extended her territory and politically unified Gondwana. Commanded a large army with 20,000 cavalry, 1,000 war elephants, and numerous foot soldiers. Known for her successful battles against Baz Bahadur, the Sultan of Malwa.
- Public Works: Carried out significant public works, such as the construction of Ranital near Jabalpur. Encouraged her attendants and ministers to build reservoirs like Cherital and Adhartal.
- Patron of Learning: Known for her support of education and learning.
Conflict with the Mughal Empire:
- Mughal Invasion: Faced an invasion by Asaf Khan, the Governor of Kara-Manikpur, in 1564. Despite initial success in battle, her army was eventually overpowered.
- Final Battle: Gallantly resisted the Mughal forces at Narhi but was ultimately defeated. Choosing death over dishonor, she stabbed herself after being severely injured in battle.
Legacy:
- Courage and Wisdom: Remembered for her bravery, leadership, and wisdom. Her story is a testament to her unwavering resolve and dedication to her people.
- Public Works and Governance: Celebrated for her contributions to infrastructure and governance, which brought prosperity to Gondwana.
Example of the Stamp Design:
- Portrait: A dignified portrait of Rani Durgawati.
- Battle Imagery: Visuals representing her battles and military leadership.
- Public Works Symbols: Elements highlighting her contributions to public infrastructure, such as Ranital and other reservoirs.
- Legacy Symbols: Icons representing her patronage of learning and governance.
Significance:
- Historical Importance: A tribute to Rani Durgawati’s significant role in Indian history and her resistance against the Mughal Empire.
- Cultural Legacy: Celebrates her contributions to public works, governance, and her lasting impact on the region.
Description of Designs:
- Portrait Illustration: A detailed and respectful portrait of Rani Durgawati.
- Battle Scenes: Visuals depicting key battles and her military leadership.
- Public Works Imagery: Symbols representing her contributions to infrastructure and public welfare.
- Legacy Icons: Elements highlighting her support of education and governance.
The first day cover and cancellation design would include introductory lines about Rani Durgawati’s life and contributions, with a line drawing of significant symbols representing her bravery, governance, and public works.