India Post Unveils Commemorative ‘My Stamp’ Honouring P. Obul Reddy’s Birth Centenary

Chennai, November 30, 2025: India Post released a customised commemorative ‘My Stamp’ honouring the birth centenary of Shri Pottipatti Obul Reddy (1925–2025), one of South India’s most respected industrialists, philanthropists, and patrons of Indian classical arts. The release took place at a special centenary celebration in Chennai and was unveiled by Major Manoj M., Director of Postal Services, Chennai, in the august presence of Padma Vibhushan Dr. Prathap C. Reddy, Founder & Chairman, Apollo Hospitals Group.
Shri P. Obul Reddy was a visionary entrepreneur whose pioneering Indo-Japanese collaboration with Matsushita (Panasonic) in 1972 led to the founding of Indo National Limited (Nippo Batteries). Under his leadership, Nippo became one of India’s most trusted dry-cell brands, delivering innovative, India-first solutions such as the iconic Nippo Hyper and Nippo Special (1P). His commitment to affordability and access powered deep rural penetration and helped establish the company, now producing nearly 800 million batteries annually, as the country’s second-largest dry-cell manufacturer.
Dr. Prathap C. Reddy, Founder & Chairman, Apollo Hospitals Group, said, “Shri P. Obul Reddy was a rare blend of industrial vision, human compassion, and cultural commitment. Professionally, he stood beside Apollo from its earliest days as one of its initiating directors, his encouragement, counsel, and faith in our mission were simply unimaginable, and his support helped shape Apollo’s journey in ways history will always remember. Personally, I have been deeply touched by his warmth and kindness; our families shared a bond that went beyond institutions, and I will always cherish the grace with which he stood with us through life’s milestones. His work at Indo National showed the nation what Indian enterprise could achieve when integrity and purpose lead the way, and his philanthropy and patronage of Carnatic music reflected a life devoted to giving back. This centenary is not only a remembrance, but a renewed call to live by the values he so beautifully embodied.”
Beyond industry, Shri Obul Reddy was known for a life marked by humility, integrity, and service. A quiet philanthropist, he contributed significantly to education, elder care, healthcare, and community welfare, strengthening social foundations in enduring ways. His devotion to Carnatic music was equally profound, he was a lifelong admirer of Saint Thyagaraja and worked passionately to preserve and promote the saint’s legacy. As the founder of the Sri Thyagaraja Seva Samithi and a dedicated patron of artistes and sabhas, he nurtured cultural continuity and supported generations of musicians.
The My Stamp release formed a key part of the year-long centenary celebrations honouring Shri Obul Reddy’s legacy across industry, social development, and the arts. Members of his family graced the event, marking a moment of tribute to a life lived with purpose and impact.