About this stamp
Welthy Fisher’s remarkable journey from the world of opera to dedicating her life to humanitarian service is truly inspiring. Born in 1879 in the United States, she initially pursued a career in opera singing but later felt compelled to leave that glamorous world behind after being inspired by evangelist Dr. Robert Speers.
After graduating from Syracuse University in 1900, Fisher embarked on a mission to China, where she served as the Principal of a girls’ school in Nanchang until 1917. Her first visit to India was in 1920, and after marrying Frederick Bohn Fisher, a Methodist Bishop in India, she traveled extensively throughout the country, meeting influential figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore.
Following her husband’s death, Fisher rededicated herself to serving humanity with renewed vigor. She spent years studying educational methodologies in various countries, returning to India in 1947. A meeting with Mahatma Gandhi during this visit inspired her to focus on rural development and adult literacy.
In 1952, Fisher returned to India and started an adult literacy class in Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh. She developed innovative teaching methods and literacy kits to empower teachers and students alike. Later, she moved to Lucknow, where she established “Saksharta Niketan” (Literacy House) with the help of renowned architect Laurie Baker.
For twenty years, Fisher dedicated herself wholeheartedly to improving the lives of Indian villagers, tirelessly working towards their education and empowerment. In 1973, she handed over the management of the institute to the Indian Literacy Board and returned to the United States, where she continued her work in the field of education.
Fisher’s unwavering commitment to literacy and rural development earned her numerous accolades, including the Nehru Literacy Award, Ramon Magsaysay Literacy Award, and UNESCO Literacy Prize, among others. The Indian Posts & Telegraphs Department is honored to issue a special stamp in recognition of her dedication and friendship towards India.
