Ma Chaman Lal – A Life Dedicated to Service and National Unity

 Ma Chaman Lal: Unsung Hero of Nation-Building & 2021 India Post Stamp Tribute

Ma Chaman Lal (1920–2003) was a visionary social worker, freedom fighter, and lifelong Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Pracharak who devoted his life to humanitarian service and cultural integration. Born on 25 March 1920in Sialkot (now in Pakistan), he was a gold medalist in MSc Zoology from the University of Punjab, Lahore. Despite lucrative career opportunities, he chose the path of selfless service, becoming a full-time Sangh Pracharak in 1942.

After the Partition of India, Chaman Lal played a pivotal role in rehabilitating thousands of refugees, arranging food, shelter, and employment. His efforts extended beyond borders—he envisioned a global network of Indian cultural unity, connecting the diaspora with Bharat’s timeless values.

Chaman Lal was instrumental in establishing Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) chapters across the world, promoting Indian culture, values, and volunteerism. His work laid the foundation for Vishwa Hindu Parishad’s international outreach, making him a key figure in global cultural diplomacy.

He was known for his humility, discipline, and unwavering commitment to “Seva Parmo Dharma”—service as the highest duty. His legacy continues through institutions and volunteers inspired by his life.

On 7 August 2021, India Post issued a ₹5 commemorative stamp honoring Ma Chaman Lal as part of the Unsung Heroes of India initiative under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. The stamp, designed by Ms. Nenu Gupta and printed by Security Printing Press, Hyderabad, features his portrait with a globe motif, symbolizing his international impact. A total of 172,230 stamps were released in multicolor wet offset format.

Trivia Points

• Born on 25 March 1920 in Sialkot, Punjab.
• Gold medalist in MSc Zoology from University of Punjab, Lahore.
• Became RSS Pracharak in 1942.
• Refused academic career to serve the nation.
• Helped rehabilitate Partition refugees in Delhi.
• Founded global chapters of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS).
• Key figure in Vishwa Hindu Parishad’s international outreach.
• Promoted Indian culture and values abroad.
• Known for motto “Seva Parmo Dharma.”
• Stamp issued in 2021 by India Post.
• Stamp part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav series.
• Designed by Ms. Nenu Gupta, printed in Hyderabad.
• Total of 172,230 stamps released.
• Died in 2003, leaving behind a legacy of service.
• Honored at a ceremony by Vice President Venkaiah Naidu.

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