Philately gallery on Netaji to open at Netaji Birthplace Musuem in Cuttack on Jan 23

Cuttack: The Netaji Birthplace Museum at Odia Bazaar is set to open a dedicated philately gallery on Jan 23 coinciding with the 128th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. Vice-president of India CP Radhakrishnan is scheduled to inaugurate it.The department of posts has issued several postage stamps and ancillaries honouring Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose over the decades. These stamps serve as an important tribute to his decisive role in India’s freedom struggle, commemorating significant milestones of his life.The new gallery located in the first floor of the building will display old and rare commemorative postage stamps along with philatelic materials such as first day covers, special covers and picture postcards released by the postal department.“The exhibits reflect Netaji’s birth, early upbringing and his vital contribution to India’s independence movement. The collection also highlights his leadership in founding the Indian National Army (INA) and his call for courage, patriotism and selfless dedication that inspired millions to rise against the British rule,” said Devjani Bhuyan, deputy director, Odia language, literature and Culture department and secretary, Netaji Birth Place Museum. Several items are considered to be of great historical and philatelic rarity, added Bhyuan.Additional district magistrate Ipsita Mishra said, “The philately gallery will help visitors, especially students and researchers, understand Netaji’s legacy through a unique medium”.“Each stamp and cover tells a story of his vision, bravery and sacrifice. It is a proud moment for Cuttack to host such a facility on his birth anniversary,” Mishra said.Preparations for the inaugural event are in the final stage with upgraded display systems, lighting and security arrangements. Special commemorative covers are also likely to be released.Officials said the initiative would further strengthen heritage tourism in the Millennium City and offer visitors a comprehensive glimpse into the life, contributions and enduring legacy of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.