India Post Unveils Commemorative ‘My Stamp’ Honouring Shri 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., IPoS, 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.
*Photo Caption:* Dr Prathap C Reddy, Founder Chairman, Apollo Hospitals Group and Major Manoj M IPoS, Director of Indian Postal Service unveiling the customized 'My Stamp' along with the family members.
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.
About Apollo
Hospitals:
Apollo revolutionised healthcare when Dr. Prathap Reddy opened the first hospital in Chennai in 1983. Today, Apollo is the world’s largest integrated healthcare platform with over 10,400 beds across 74 hospitals, 6,600+ pharmacies, 264 clinics, 2,182 diagnostic centres, and 800+ telemedicine centres. It is one of the world’s leading cardiac centers, having performed over 3,00,000 angioplasties and 2,00,000 surgeries. Apollo continues to invest in research and innovation to bring the most cutting-edge technologies, equipment, and treatment protocols to ensure patients have access to the best care in the world. Apollo’s 1,20,000 family members are dedicated to delivering exceptional care and leaving the world better than we found it.
