Tipu Sultan has a distinct place in our history as a defender of the country's freedom. He was the only ruler of his period who had a clear vision of the ultimate aim of British policy. He fought valiantly for maintaining his independence and preferred death to dishonour. Born on May 20, 1750, he was named Tipu after Saint TipuMastan Aulia. From the early age of 15, he was sent by his father, Haidar Ali of Mysore, on military campaigns against te English, the Nizam and the Marathas, with whom Haidar Ali was constantly at war. Tipu displayed great dash and courage in these campaigns. He defeated the English in several battles and was able to make an honourable peace with them trough the Treaty of Mangalore in 1784. Still he was not allowed to rest in peace. The English succeeded in winning over the Nizam and the Marathas against him. In 1790, the formed an aliance and invaded Tipu's kingdom. He fought bravely but was overwhelmed. Consequently, he lost half of his kingdom. This greatly wealened him and paved the way for his final overthrow and death in 1799. As a ruler Tipu believed in the Indian tradition that the people constituted " a unique trust held for God the real Master".

He had a high sense of duty to his office. An able administrator he ushered in prosperity in his kingdom by economic management of material resources. He initiated measures for the development of commerce and for checking frauds and other malpractices. He pioneered road building in Malabar. He imposed restrictions on lavish expenditure on marriages and festivals and abolished the custom of human sacrifice. Tipu was a patron of art and learning. His library consisted of a large number of manuscripts in various languages.

His currency was adorned with the finest calligraphic designs. He was a patron of music and dancing and had a great love for architecture. He was liberal in his views and catholic and broadminded in his outlook. Te Posts and Telegraphs Department deems it a privilege to bring out a stamp in the memory of this great son of India.

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