Dr. Vrindavan Lal Verma was born in Jhansi on 9th January, 1889. He wrote in his lifetime more than 80 historical/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, evils of superstitions. In his condemnation of these restricting social norms, he was a man ahead of his times.

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.

The Department of Post is happy to issue a stamp in honour of this great novelist who has a special place in Hindi literature.

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