Tribute to 19th Century Indian Legend Shri Virchandji Raghavji Gandhi

Author(s): JAINA VRG Committee
Publisher: JAINA VRG Committee

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VRG STAMP RELEASE DREAM FULFILLED By Prakash Mody, Canada, JAINA, VRG Committee Member Prominent Jain Scholar, Philatelist, JAINA Senior Leader
During the birth centenary celebrations of Virchand Raghvji Gandhi (VRG) in 1964, a suggestion was made for the issue of a commemorative stamp but it was too late for timely issue, however the then Minister promised for the same in future. In 1993 at the centenary of the Parliament of World Religions (PWR), Chicago, USA, the stamp issue was raised but nothing happened. VRG was the great Indian emissary to the Western world in those days and one who changed the wrong impression about India. VRG was the Jain delegate at the first PWR in 1893 and was awarded the silver medal. In 1998 then JAINA President Dr. Dhiraj H. Shah personally submitted the Memorandum to then Prime Minister of India Hon. Atal Vihari Vajpayee in New York, USA.
Before the Bhagwan Mahavir's Nirvan anniversary centenary in early January 2004, under Anopbhai Vora's presidency, the subject was jointly revived by Jain Associations In North America (JAINA) and World Jain Confederation (WJC). Fresh proposal was sent to the India Post who responded with 'special cover and cancellation' only, but this was not an appropriate homage for this national religious leader. JAINA pursued through correspondence, design and personal approaches, etc. and WJC's Maheshbhai V. Gandhi followed up with innumerable visits to New Delhi for getting the stamp and design approval. After lots of efforts and support of the many, the proposal was approved by the Philatelic Advisory Committee. For some reasons, the stamp issue was still getting delayed. The sponsoring bodies through their friends and contacts continued their efforts (read details in 'acknowledgements' else where in this souvenir).
In the meantime, efforts to issue a stamp by USA where VRG attended the first PWR and other countries like UK and Canada were made. In response to the request, Canada Post responded that they will consider. In a personal talk, a point was raised that has India issued a stamp for such a great personality? They suggested of having a "personal stamp" and a special cover plus cancellation may be provided.