On 15 September 1960, India Post issued a commemorative 15 naya paisa stamp celebrating the centenary of Dr. M. Visvesvaraya’s birth. This striking design, printed by the India Security Press, highlights one of India’s most esteemed engineers and statesmen, immortalizing his remarkable contributions to the nation.
Who Was Dr. M. Visvesvaraya?
Dr. Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, affectionately known as Sir MV, was born on 15 September 1861 in Muddenahalli, Karnataka. A man of exceptional vision and intellect, Sir MV was not only an engineer but also a statesman, scholar, and reformer. Serving as the Diwan of Mysore from 1912 to 1918, he transformed Mysore into one of India’s most progressive states.
Sir MV’s illustrious career included two notable engineering feats:
- Krishna Raja Sagara Dam: He led the construction of this pioneering reservoir, still vital for irrigation in Karnataka.
- Flood Protection System for Hyderabad: As the chief designer, his innovative system mitigated the devastating floods in the city, leaving a legacy of urban resilience.
A Life Honored by Nations
In 1955, Sir MV was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, in recognition of his contributions to public welfare. Decades earlier, in 1915, King George V knighted him with the title Knight Commander of the British Indian Empire (KCIE) for his service to the empire.
His legacy endures with Engineers’ Day, celebrated every 15 September in India, as a tribute to his ingenuity and dedication.
The 1960 Commemorative Stamp
The stamp not only celebrates his centenary but also reflects his importance to India’s history. The vibrant pink background and a dignified portrait of Sir MV remind us of his monumental achievements. Collectors worldwide treasure this philatelic piece as a homage to an engineering pioneer.
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