U. Kiang Nongbah
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Personality Series |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | July 6, 2001 |
| Denomination | Rs. 4 |
| Quantity | 400,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 |
| Printer | Eagle Press Ltd. |
| Printing Process | Offset Lithography |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Smt. Alka Sharma |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1838 Stamp Number IN 1898 Yvert et Tellier IN 1604 Stanley Gibbons IN 2005 |
| Themes | Famous people | Freedom Fighters | Men |
Brave Freedom Fighter of Meghalaya
U. Kiang Nongbah (d. 1862) was a courageous tribal leader and freedom fighter from the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya. He is remembered for his valiant resistance against British colonial rule during and after the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
Early Life and Inspiration
Born in the Jaintia Hills (now in Meghalaya), U Kiang Nongbah’s early life was shaped by stories of British expansion and their unjust methods of annexation. These experiences instilled in him a deep sense of patriotism and a strong desire to free his homeland from foreign rule.
Leadership and Armed Resistance
Recognizing the need for organized resistance, U Kiang Nongbah understood that only a disciplined force could challenge the powerful British army. His leadership qualities came to the forefront when he was chosen as the leader of a group of local headmen.
He soon emerged as the leading figure in the struggle for the liberation of the Jaintia region.
Guerrilla Warfare Against the British
U Kiang Nongbah adopted guerrilla warfare tactics to counter the British forces. Along with his followers, he:
- Launched surprise attacks and ambushes
- Disrupted British operations
- Challenged their military superiority
Despite limited resources, his strategic brilliance enabled his forces to hold their ground and inflict significant setbacks on the British.
Capture and Martyrdom
During one of the fiercest battles, U Kiang Nongbah was seriously injured. While recovering, he was captured by British forces. He was later executed by hanging on 30 December 1862, marking a tragic end to his heroic struggle.
Legacy
U Kiang Nongbah is revered as a symbol of courage, resistance, and sacrifice in India’s freedom movement. His struggle represents the spirit of tribal resistance against colonial oppression.
To honour his contribution, the Department of Posts issued a commemorative postage stamp as part of the Personality Series: The Spirit of Nationalism, alongside leaders like Syama Prasad Mookerjee, C. Sankaran Nair, and Krishna Nath Sarmah.
First Day Cover
