Dr. Vrindavan Lal Verma was born in Jhansi on 9 January 1889. He wrote in his lifetime more than 80 historic/social novels, plays, and collections of short stories. Born and brought up in the Bundelkhand region, an area rich in history, he used it as the background, very effectively in a large number of his novels and plays. For his contribution to the stream of the historical novel, he came to be known as the “Walter Scott” of India. He used this medium to portray existing social evils, particularly the rigidity of the caste system, and the evils of superstitions. In his condemnation of these restricting social norms, he was a man ahead of his time.
Dr. Vrindavan Lal Verma’s role was therefore not merely that of a novelist/writer but of a social reformer and a humanist, who sought to shape and guide the perceptions of his readers and thereby change the face of society.
In 1908, he wrote a play “Senapati Udal,” where he invoked the people to take up arms against British rule. This book was banned and he was placed under close scrutiny. This however did not deter him. In 1922 he started a newspaper called “Swadhin” (Independent).
About his writing, he has said, “When I see social suppression…….I raise my pen”. He was honoured with the Padma Bhushan in 1965. This was only a culmination of the hosts of awards, and honours conferred on him earlier including the Sahitya Academy Award.
His work continues to be relevant even today. This, more than anything is evidence of his greatness as a writer and a thinker.
A number of his works were translated into various foreign languages. Of particular significance is his novel “Jhansi Ki Rani, Laxmibai” who in his words “Fought for independence, died for independence and was the foundation stone for independence.”
The first-day cover appropriately carries a picture of the Jhansi Fort, immortalized through the writings of Dr. Verma.
Source: Information Brochure of Commemorative Postage Stamp issued by Department of Posts.