Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, an institution dedicated to the promotion of education and culture in the country, was founded by Dr. K. M. Munshi in 1938. This institution still stands steady like a banyan tree, as ageless and tenacious as the traditions and culture of India which it embodies and reflects.

The institution was formed at a time when the country was going through a time of turbulence, of introspection, of recovering of self esteem. Dr. Munshi saw the signs of a weakening moral fibre and the national culture faced with dilemma of identity. There was a need to find a national identity which would arrest the trend towards mindless materialism and westernization. For this, it was necessary that while absorbing modem knowledge through education, the ancient wisdom of India must be preserved as a foundation of the new movement. This movement took the shape of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.

The Bhavan provides multi dimensional programmes which ranges from institutions that provide education in technical, management, vocational training to activities that promote all facets oflndology and Indian culture from literature and language to the  performing arts, schools, libraries, hostels, hospitals, colleges and publications, special centres for women, scheduled tribes and tribals' welfare, etc. The study of Sanskrit with  all  its  additional  features  such  as  shastras' rituals, customs, literature, etc. forms a strong thread running through all institutions of the Bhavan as a part of its promotion of cultural, ethical and moral values. Bhavan also provides free computer education to unemployed people from economically weaker sections of society through 40 centres across the country. The Bhavan has so far published over 2000 books covering art, literature, culture, values, philosophy, science and history.

Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan's  contribution  has been acknowledged by the Government of India which has recognized it as an "Educational Institution of National Eminence" and has also conferred upon it the "Communal Harmony Award", " Rajiv Gandhi Award for National Integration"  and above all the "International Gandhi Peace Prize".

Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan has completed 75 years of its existence and is stepping into the next phase of   service, growth and development by continuously spreading the message of Indian culture and heritage.

Department of Posts is happy to commemorate the 75'h anniversary of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan by issuing a postage stamp.

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