One of the pioneers of India's freedom movement, Acharya Narendra Deo was born on 30th October, 1889, at Sitapur in Uttar Pradesh, where his father, Shri Baldev Prasad, was an advocate. Acharyaji was himself a lawyer by education, a staunch educationist by profession and an accomplished character of a selfless personality in life. Acharyaji is regarded as the founder of democratic socialist movement i India.

He uncovered the new dimensions of Marxism with reference to nascent Indian nationality and democratic ideals. He made continuous eforts throughout his life to set and implement socialist principles and ideals for socio-cultural reality. His role in the field of education, culture and literature was unique. He interpreted the liberalised essence of Indian culture. Acharyaji was also deeply interested in the philosophy and culture of Buddhism. His best compositions relate to Buddhism. In the words of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the Acharya's zeal and inteligence were unique. He was unique in honesty, heart and action. He reflected noble qualities by his behaviour and not just by speech.

The Acharya was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Uttar Pradesh in 1938, and again in 1946. He was a member of the Legislative Council, Uttar Pradesh, in 1952-54 and of the Rajya Sabha in 1954-56. He died on 19th Feb., '56. A postage stamp in the denomination of 20P, was brought out by the Department on 19-2-1971, on his 25th Death anniversary. This second stamp on the personality is brought out to commemorate his birth centenary.

Source : Information Folder issued by Indian Posts & Telegraph Department, Government of India