2017-03-02 Thu

These stamps were issued by the Orchha State during the British period in 1935 AD.

Well known for its architecture, Orchha was a Princely State during the British period surrounded by a beautiful forest. The palace of Orchha State stands magnificently showcasing its history and its struggle for survival. Long ago, this state stood as an independent Kingdom established by Bundela chief, Rudra Pratap Singh in 1501 AD.

But in the 19th century the power of the East India Company was growing and like many other states, Orchha also came under their control. Orchha became a part of the Bundelkhand Agency but the administration within the state remained under the Maharajas hold. The king also had control over the economic affairs of the state which gave them the right to mint coins and issues stamps.

Orchha issued its first stamp in 1913. Though Orchha had also printed a few stamps but it was never released for public use. For many years these stamps were used, but in 1935 a series of stamps in 21 values were issued with the portrait of Maharaja in European robes. These stamps, later, were also withdrawn and a new issue was released in 1939.

The Princely State of Orchha like other states signed the Instrument of Accession and it acceded to the newly formed Union of India, in 1950.Today it’s a part of Madhya Pradesh state.