India Post Honours Industrialist and Philanthropist P. Obul Reddy with Centenary Stamp
Chennai: India Post has unveiled a customised commemorative My Stamp to mark the birth centenary of Pottipatti Obul Reddy (1925–2025), one of South India’s most respected industrialists, philanthropists, and patrons of Indian classical arts.
The stamp was released at a special centenary celebration in Chennai by Major Manoj M., IPoS, Director of Postal Services, Chennai, in the presence of Padma Vibhushan Dr. Prathap C. Reddy, Founder & Chairman, Apollo Hospitals Group.
Obul Reddy, widely regarded as a visionary entrepreneur, pioneered Indo-Japanese collaboration in 1972 by partnering with Matsushita (Panasonic) to establish Indo National Limited (Nippo Batteries). Under his leadership, Nippo emerged as one of India’s most trusted dry-cell brands, introducing innovations such as Nippo Hyper and Nippo Special (1P). His focus on affordability and rural accessibility helped the company achieve deep market penetration. Today, Indo National produces nearly 800 million batteries annually, ranking as the country’s second-largest dry-cell manufacturer.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Prathap C. Reddy said:
“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, and his support helped shape our journey in ways history will always remember. Personally, I have been deeply touched by his warmth and kindness. His work at Indo National showed the nation what Indian enterprise could achieve when integrity and purpose lead the way, while his philanthropy and patronage of Carnatic music reflected a life devoted to giving back.”
Beyond industry, Obul Reddy was known for his humility, integrity, and service. A quiet philanthropist, he contributed significantly to education, elder care, healthcare, and community welfare. 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 founder of the Sri Thyagaraja Seva Samithi and a patron of artistes and sabhas, he nurtured cultural continuity and supported generations of musicians.
The commemorative My Stamp release is part of year-long centenary celebrations honouring Obul Reddy’s enduring contributions to industry, social development, and the arts. Members of his family attended the event, paying tribute to a life lived with purpose and impact.
