Patna: A special postal cover commemorating the late Acharya Kishore Kunal, former secretary of the Mahavir Temple Trust, has been issued by the Postal Department. The cover features images of Mahavir Temple and the Virat Ramayan Temple, honouring Kunal’s contributions to religious and social causes.
The cover was unveiled at Mahavir Temple in Patna on Tuesday by Bihar’s Chief Postmaster General Anil Kumar and Rural Works Minister Ashok Chaudhary. The event was attended by Kunal’s family, including his son Sayan Kunal, wife Anita Kunal, and daughter-in-law, MP Sambhavi.
Anil Kumar highlighted that the cover showcases various images of Acharya Kishore Kunal and Mahavir Temple, while the reverse side features a depiction of the Virat Ramayan Mandir. “The soul of Acharya Kishore Kunal resides in Mahavir Mandir, and that is why this temple has been prominently featured,” he said. The ceremony was also held at the temple in his honour.
The special cover is priced at ₹20, with a ₹5 postage stamp featuring Lord Ram affixed to it. It is available at all major post offices across Bihar and nationwide, as well as on e-post. It can be used to send ordinary mail anywhere in India for ₹25, including the stamp cost. Kumar also revealed that 1,000 copies were sold on the first day, and only 2,000 copies are being issued initially. If they sell out, a request will be made to the central government for re-publication.
Minister Ashok Chaudhary, the chief guest, paid tribute to Acharya Kishore Kunal’s legacy, recalling how he resigned from his lucrative IPS career to dedicate his life to the service of Mahavir Temple and humanitarian efforts. He also played a crucial role in the legal battle for the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. In his final days, he laid the foundation for India’s first cancer hospital for children.
Speaking at the event, Kunal’s son Sayan Kunal vowed to continue his father’s unfinished work, while MP Sambhavi, who conducted the programme, said his memories would always remain with them. Director of Postal Services Pawan Kumar noted that Acharya Kishore Kunal’s life would continue to inspire society.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Lieutenant General AK Chaudhary, Dr SS Jha, Pradeep Jain, and MLC Ajay Kumar Singh, who also shared their thoughts on Kunal’s enduring legacy.
