Issued by India

Issued on Nov 25, 2025

Issued for : Department of Posts is proud to release a commemorative postage stamp on 350^th Martyrdom Day of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Ms. Nenu Gupta

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 303300

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Tyag Mal

Born on 1 Apr, 1621 at Amritsar, Punjab, India

Died on 24 Nov, 1675 at Delhi, Mughal India

About : 

• Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was born on April 1, 1621, in Amritsar, the son of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib ji and Mata Nanaki, and was named Tyag Mal at birth. He later became the ninth Guru of the Sikhs and was known as Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. From childhood, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was trained in martial arts, swordsmanship, and horsemanship. In the Battle of Kartarpur (1635), fought between the Sikhs and the Mughals, Guru Sahib displayed exceptional bravery and remarkable swordsmanship. Pleased with his bravery, his father, Sri Guru Hargobind ji, bestowed upon him the title of “Tegh Bahadur”.
• On November 24, 1675, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur ji was publicly executed in Delhi on the orders of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb for opposing forced conversions and defending religious freedom. Gurdwara Sisganj Sahib in Chandni Chowk, Delhi, is the site of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s supreme martyrdom. This year marks the 350^th anniversary of that supreme martyrdom. On this occasion, it is time to reaffirm the values that empower interfaith dialogue, civic consciousness, and our shared cultural unity. In this sense, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji is an eternal source of inspiration for India’s cultural soul.
• Text : Based on the content provided by Ministry of Culture.

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Issued by India

Issued on Nov 19, 2025

Issued for : The Department of Posts is releasing a commemorative postage stamp on the Birth Centenary of Sri Sathya Sai Baba.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Sh. Suresh

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise (4)

Miniature Sheets Printed : 241200

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Ratnakaram Sathyanarayana Raju

Born on 23 Nov, 1926 at Puttaparthi, Madras Presidency, British India [now in Andhra Pradesh, India]

Died on 24 Apr, 2011 at Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh, India

About : 

• Sri Sathya Sai Baba was born on November 23, 1926, in Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh. At the age of 14, he began his mission to promote human values of truth, righteous conduct, peace, love, and non-violence, while stressing the unity of all religions. His life of service and compassion inspired the establishment of numerous institutions devoted to education, healthcare, and rural development, benefiting millions, around the world.
• The Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust (SSSCT) continues his vision by offering free healthcare, education, and social welfare services without discrimination. Recognised by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) with a Special Consultative Status, the Trust operates two super-speciality hospitals, two general hospitals, and two mobile hospitals that treat around 3,000 outpatients daily, completely free of charge. These hospitals are highlighted by NITI Aayog as exemplary not-for-profit, faith-based healthcare models devoted to “service to society as service to God”.
• In education, the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning provides free undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes, combining academic excellence with character building. More than 5,000 students study in all these institutions and receive quality education free of cost. About 102 Sri Sathya Sai Schools, with about 60,000 children under the aegis of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation (SSSSO), are being provided with financial assistance to improve their infrastructure, like buildings, furniture, and computer facilities, to enable quality education to reach the grassroots.
• Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s vision of rural upliftment led to major drinking water projects supplying safe water to over 1,600 villages and three million people in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. The Trust’s Sai Mitra Solar Energy Project generates 6.1 megawatts of clean energy. It also provides disaster relief, builds houses for affected families, and feeds nearly one lakh people daily.
• Besides, to instil human values in youth, the “Bal Vikas” programme educates over 4,00,000 children through 20,000 voluntary teachers.
• Text : Based on the content provided by the Proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Nov 16, 2025

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to mark his 150^th birth anniversary with a Commemorative Postage Stamp.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Ms. Ravneet Kaur

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 304560

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Jawahar Lal

Born on 2 Nov, 1875 at Thandala, Madhya Pradesh, India

Died on 10 Jul, 1943 at Bhinasar, Rajasthan, India

About : 

• Acharya Jawahar Lal was a great saint and preacher of Rashtradharma (national duty). He was born in Thandala (Madhya Pradesh) on 2^nd November, 1875. His mother, Nathibai passed away when he was two, and his father, Jeevraj Kavad, died when he was five. He then lived with his maternal uncle, Moolchand Dhoka, who also passed away when he was thirteen. These events deepened his spiritual inclination. At the age of 16, he accepted Jain initiation from Muni Maganlal; and at 42 years of age, he became Yuvacharya of the Shvetambara Sthanakavasi Sadhu Marg Jain Sangh, and around 44 years, he assumed the position of Acharya.
• A profound scholar of the Jain Agamas, Acharya Jawahar Lal drew on texts where Bhagwan Mahavira opposed casteism and preached equality, liberty & humanity, thereby calling duty towards village, city, and nation as Dharma. The Thananga Sutra (in classical Prakrit) mentions Gramdharma, Nagardharma, and Rashtradharma – references that served as catalysts for the freedom movement. Acharya Jawahar interpreted these Agamic sutras in contemporary style. On national duty, he taught that for the sake of religion, the nation and nationalism must be protected. He was well-versed beyond Jain scriptures – in the Upanishads and the Gita which he quoted widely leaving listeners spellbound.
• As a social reformer, Acharya Jawahar Lal advocated eradicating misconceptions, evils, and rigid traditions. He vehemently denounced caste discrimination and untouchability, while also criticizing various social evils such as child marriage, unequal or mismatched marriages, and the practice of treating marriage as a commercial transaction involving the sale of the bride or groom. He viewed the freedom movement as a medium not only for political liberation but also for cultural awakening, eradication of social evils, Swadeshi, self-reliance, and de-addiction. He wore khadi himself, and encouraged its adoption within his monastic community. Inspired by his nationalism and the power of discourses, many national leaders and freedom fighters sought his company.
• He attained nirvana on 10^th July, 1943 at approximately 68 years of age, in Bhinasar (near Bikaner), Rajasthan. 
• Text : Based on information provided by Jaskaran Bothra Foundation, Mumbai.

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Issued by India

Issued on Aug 30, 2025

Issued for : India Post proudly releases a Commemorative Postage Stamp honouring the timeless legacy of Sri Madhvacharya, a philosopher and spiritual reformer whose Dvaita Vedanta school profoundly shaped Indian philosophical thought. His teachings continue to illuminate the path of devotion, knowledge, and righteousness.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Ms. Himani

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 303480

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Vasudeva

Born on 1238 CE at Pajaka, Udupi taluk, Karnataka, India

Died on 1278 CE

About : 

• Sri Madhvacharya, the founder of the Dvaita (dualistic) school of Vedanta, was born around 1238 CE in the village of Pajaka near Udupi, in present-day Karnataka, India. He belonged to a Tulu Brahmin family and exhibited a deep spiritual inclination from an early age. Known for his extraordinary intellect, physical strength, and devotion, he began his formal education under his father, Madhyageha Bhatta, and local scholars.
• By the age of 16, Madhvacharya chose to renounce worldly life and took monastic vows (Sannyasa) under Achyutapreksha, the head of a local Advaita monastery. However, over time, he developed philosophical ideas that challenged the core tenets of Advaita Vedanta.
• Sri Madhvacharya’s principal contribution to Indian philosophy was the establishment of Dvaita Vedanta. The dualistic philosophy stood in direct contrast to the non-dualistic Advaita school founded by Adi Shankaracharya. According to Madhvacharya, the individual soul (jiva) and the Supreme Being (Vishnu or Narayana) are eternally separate. He strongly asserted the reality of the world, the distinction between God and the soul, and the importance of bhakti (devotion).
• Sri Madhvacharya argued that liberation (moksha) is achieved not through knowledge alone but through unwavering devotion to Vishnu, adherence to Dharma (righteous duty), and divine grace. His vision placed God as supreme and unchanging, with individual souls in eternal servitude to the divine.
• A prolific writer and teacher, Sri Madhvacharya composed numerous works that laid the foundation of Dvaita philosophy. Key among them are:
  • Brahma Sutra Bhashya – A commentary that systematically critiques earlier interpretations, particularly those of Shankaracharya.
  • Bhagavad Gita Tatparya – A detailed exposition of the Gita’s spiritual teachings.
  • Mahabharata Tatparya Nirnaya – An interpretive text revealing the deeper meanings of the Mahabharata.
  • Upanishad Bhashyas – Commentaries on select Upanishads, offering dualistic interpretations.
  • Dwadasha Stotra – A collection of twelve devotional hymns dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
• These works, rich in logic and devotion, laid the groundwork for the Dvaita school’s development and spread, influencing future generations of thinkers and devotees.
• One of Sri Madhvacharya’s most enduring legacies is the establishment of the Udupi Krishna Matha, a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna in Udupi. According to legend, he recovered an idol of Krishna from a shipwreck and installed it in the temple, which became the spiritual and organizational center of the Dvaita tradition.
• To manage religious and administrative duties, Sri Madhvacharya founded Ashta Mathas (eight monasteries) and appointed his closest disciples as heads. These Mathas continue to function today, playing a certain role in preserving and promoting Dvaita Vedanta and the worship of Krishna.
• Sri Madhvacharya’s teachings left a deep mark on Indian philosophy and devotional practice. His emphasis on the personal relationship between the soul and God resonated deeply with later bhakti movements across India. Communities, especially among Tulu and Kannada-speaking Brahmins, embraced his dualistic teachings and devotional emphasis.
• His rational, theistic philosophy offered a strong counter-narrative to Advaita Vedanta and influenced subsequent theological debates. Today, his works are studied by scholars and devotees alike, and the institutions he established remain vibrant centers of learning and spiritual practice.
• Sri Madhvacharya is revered not only as a philosopher but also as a saint, mystic, and reformer. His life of devotion, scholarship, and service continues to inspire millions, securing his place as one of the most significant figures in the spiritual and philosophical traditions of India.
• Text : Based on information provided by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Jun 28, 2025

Issued for : The Department of Posts is proud to release a commemorative postage stamp in honour of Acharya Vidyanand, a tribute to a spiritual luminary whose life was devoted to the service of humanity and the pursuit of higher truth.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Sh Brahm Prakash

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 202800

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Surendra Upadhyay

Born on 22 Apr, 1925

Died on 18 Feb, 2024

About : 

• Acharya Vidyanand’s original name was Surendra Upadhyay. He was born on 22 April 1925 in the house of Kalappa Upadhyay, a senior Muni Acharya of the Jain sect: a prominent thinker, philosopher, writer, musician, editor, and patron.
• Acharya Vidyanand’s personality was extraordinary from the very beginning. Helping those younger than him, caring for the sick, and comforting the downtrodden always appealed to him. The internal conflict in his mind kept reminding him to move towards a greater goal. His early experiences in life made him understand the true meaning of human service.
• His desire to move towards his real goal was unwavering. His inclination towards religion and asceticism was visible from childhood. He reached Pune in search of a livelihood. There, he got a job in a factory manufacturing military equipment. After a few days, he got a job in a biscuit factory. But he did not like worldly activities, and his mind was constantly immersed in spiritual thoughts.
• In 1942, when the Quit India Movement was launched across the country, He too could not remain untouched by its call. The feeling of patriotism and social service was present in him from the very beginning. His experiences of the world, which were mostly bitter, turned him towards detachment form worldly life. In 1946, a wonderful coincidence occurred. Acharya Mahavirkirti performed Varshayoga in Shedwal. He used to listen to Munishri’s discourses every day and get immersed in the soul’s bliss. This revolutionary youth, dressed in modern attire, made simplicity his way of life. It was natural for Acharya Mahavirkirti to pay attention to this youth who came regularly for Gyan Sadhna. He used to talk to him very lovingly and was pleased to hear his thoughts. One day, in the course of a conversation, Surendra expressed his desire to take Muni Diksha in front of Munishri.
• Acharya Vidyanand received Kshullak Diksha on 15 April 1946 at Tamdaddi in Karnataka, under the guidance of Acharya Mahavirkirti. After this, he practised rigorous penance, self-study, and service. There was a strong spiritual attraction in his personality, which influenced countless devotees.
• Under the guidance of Acharya Deshbhushan, he received initiation on 25 July 1963 at Subhash Maidan in Delhi. With this initiation, he fully entered the life of a monk. Finally, Acharya Ratna Sagar gave him Upadhyay initiation on 17 November 1974 in Delhi, which established him as a prominent figure in the religious community. After this initiation, he began to be called ‘Maharaj’.
• The impact of his spiritual journey was not limited to the religious field. He was also active in various fields such as writing, editing, philosophy, and music. He produced many texts in which Jainism and philosophy have been explained in detail. He played an important role in inspiring youth and seekers. Acharya Vidyanand ascended to heaven on 18 February 2024.
• Text : Based on information provided by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on May 31, 2025

Issued for : The Department of Posts is proud to release a Commemorative Postage Stamp on the 300^th Birth Anniversary of Ahilya Bai Holkar.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Sh Anuj Kumar

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 202800

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Ahilyabai Holkar

Born on 31 May, 1725 at Chondi, Maratha Empire [now in Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra, India]

Died on 13 Aug, 1795 at Rajwada, Indore, Indore State, Maratha Empire [now in Madhya Pradesh, India]

About : 

• Born in 1725 in Chondi, Maharashtra, Ahilya Bai Holkar is one of the most revered figures in Indian history, known for her leadership and contributions to the cultural and economic development of her kingdom. As queen of Malwa from 1767 to 1795, her reign marked a golden era of prosperity, justice, and artistic growth.
• Ahilya Bai was born into a humble family of the Deshmukh clan. Her father, Mankoji Shinde, served as a village headman, enabling her to receive a good education and develop an early interest in governance. At the age of 19, she married Khanderao Holkar, son of Malhar Rao Holkar, founder of the Holkar dynasty.
• Widowed in 1754 with a young daughter after her husband’s death in battle, Ahilya Bai showed remarkable strength. Her composure impressed her father-in-law, Malhar Rao Holkar, who recognised her leadership potential and began mentoring her in administration and public affairs.
• Following Malhar Rao’s death in 1766, Ahilya Bai became the de facto ruler of Malwa. Formally ascending the throne in 1767, she faced political instability and threats from rival states and the British East India Company. Though her rise was unprecedented for a woman in a male-dominated society, she quickly proved her capabilities.
• Ahilya Bai ensured fair governance and prioritised the welfare of her subjects. Her just rule earned her widespread admiration and solidified her place as a beloved monarch. She handled affairs of state with wisdom, maintained peace, and promoted inclusive justice.
• Under her leadership, Malwa prospered both economically and culturally. She invested in infrastructure, commissioning roads, forts, and temples that boosted trade and connectivity. Her architectural contributions include the Maheshwar Fort and temples built along the banks of the Narmada River, many of which still stand today.
• Ahilya Bai was a great patron of the arts. She encouraged music, dance, and literature, fostering cultural growth. Her court became a hub for scholars and artists, sparking a cultural renaissance. Known for her love of poetry, she often took part in literary gatherings and supported creative expression.
• Her commitment to social welfare was evident in the institutions she established, including hospitals and schools that promoted healthcare and education. She believed in the transformative power of education, especially for women, and her efforts laid a foundation for future progress in this area.
• A deeply spiritual leader who followed Hindu principles, Ahilya Bai also practised religious tolerance. She welcomed scholars and religious leaders from various faiths to her court, promoting dialogue and unity among her diverse subjects. Her policies strengthened social harmony and reflected her inclusive vision.
• Among her most notable contributions was the construction of temples and ghats along the Narmada River. She believed that spiritual access should be open to all, regardless of caste or creed. Her initiatives to provide clean drinking water and support agriculture further demonstrated her care for everyday needs.
• Despite challenges, including the growing influence of the British East India Company, Ahilya Bai navigated political tensions with diplomacy and strategic alliances. Her ability to protect her kingdom while preserving its independence was a testament to her political acumen.
• Ahilya Bai Holkar passed away on 13 August 1795. Her death marked the end of a remarkable chapter in Indian history, but her legacy lived on. She is remembered as a visionary ruler who embodied courage, wisdom, and compassion. Her reign not only transformed Malwa but also challenged the limitations placed on women in leadership.
• In modern India, Ahilya Bai is celebrated as a symbol of empowerment. Her story continues to inspire generations of women striving for recognition and equality.
• Ahilya Bai Holkar’s reign stands as a powerful example of visionary leadership, cultural renaissance, and social commitment. She broke barriers and redefined the role of women in Indian public life. Her contributions remain deeply etched in the nation’s memory, and her name continues to evoke respect and admiration.
• Text : Referenced from content provided by Ministry of Culture.

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Issued by India

Issued on Mar 25, 2025

Issued for : The Department of Posts is pleased to issue commemorative postage stamp on Mata Karma.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Ms. Himani

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 305300

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Karma Devi

Born on 12 April, 1016 at Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Died on 27 Mar, 1064

About : 

• Mata Karma was an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna whose life is a symbol of devotion, courage, and social service. Her life inspires us to fight against various social evils like untouchability and conservatism while promoting unity and harmony in society.
• Mata Karma was born on April 12, 1016, in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh to Ramshah and Leelavati who were deeply religious and philanthropic. They had unwavering faith in Lord Krishna and spent their days immersed in devotion and service. Since childhood, Karma was drawn towards devotion to Lord Krishna and offered her prayers with immense reverence.
• Mata Karma was married to Chaturbhuj Shah. After his death, she resolved to look after her son. After some time, she arranged the marriage of her elder son and, entrusting her family and business responsibilities to him, embarked on a journey to seek the blessings of Lord Krishna.
• During her journey, Mata Karma visited Nagari and Sihava in Chhattisgarh, where she took blessings of saints and proceeded on her journey to Jagannath Puri, passing through Rajim.
• In Rajim, she met a member of the Sarathi community. The people of this community held her in great reverence and invited her to their home. Mata Karma sat on a platform in their village and preached the message of devotion. Afterward, she took a boat to travel towards Puri.
• It is said that upon reaching Puri, the temple servants asked her to cook khichdi (a traditional dish), and Lord Krishna accepted the khichdi. This event established the tradition of offering khichdi to Lord Krishna.
• Mata Karma spent four years of her life in devotion to lord Jagannath. Eventually on March 27, 1064 (Vikram Samvat 1121), Mata Karma had a vision of Lord Krishna and left her mortal body, merging into the heart of God.
• Mata Karma’s life is an exceptional example of devotion, courage, and social service. She devoted herself entirely to Lord Krishna while also striving to bring about social reforms. Mata Karma was a remarkable example of feminine power, demonstrating through her life that women can guide society in the right direction.
• Through her efforts to fight against social evils, Mata Karma promoted unity, kindness, and compassion. She showed that by embracing the divine with an open heart, one can not only transform their own life but can also influence society positively. Her legacy as a saintly figure, a social reformer, and a devoted follower of Lord Krishna remains strong and revered even today.
• Text : Referenced from content provided by Proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Dec 31, 2024

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on Veer Meghmaya and salutes his sacrifice for the welfare of the depressed and vulnerable.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Shri Brahm Prakash

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 201600

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• The heritage of India is filled with stories of saints who sacrificed their lives for the benefit of people. These saints gave a new direction and hope to the people through their philosophy and action. One such saint from western India is Veer Meghmaya.
• Saint Veer Meghmaya lived around 1000 years ago. At that time, the historical capital of Gujarat was Anhilpur Patan. There was the rule of king Siddhraj Jai Singh Solanki.
• At that time, people were longing for water due to famine for many years. The then king, who was a devotee of lord Shiva, got the “Sahastralinga Sarovar” constructed. To pay tribute to the power of lord Shiva, 1008 Shiva temples were also built around the lake with the Shivling.
• Despite the constriction of the lake, water remained a challenge for the people. On asking the pundits/astrologers, it was told that the water did not come due to the curse of the king. It was told that the remedy would be, if a man with thirty-two qualities, sacrifices himself in the lake. Such a man with thirty two signs was “Veer Meghmaya” who was born in a Dalit Vankar family, near Dholka, in Ranoda village.
• Saint Veer Meghmaya voluntarily accepted the sacrifice for the welfare of the people. At that time untouchability was at its peak. He appealed to the king for social justice, for the depressed classes of the area, which was accepted. With this single act of sacrifice, the life of millions of untouchables got transformed. The sacrifices of Veer Meghmaya is always remembered as the great cause of establishing human rights and redemption of the depressed classes.
• In modern times, Veer Meghmaya is seen as a liberator of depressed and vulnerable. The government of Gujarat is developing his birth place as millions gather here to pay homage to Veer Meghmaya. With the development of memorial, research centre, library, primary health centre and renovation of temple, the devotees will be greatly benefitted.
• Text : Based on information provided by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Dec 25, 2024

Issued for : To commemorate this historic occasion, the Department of Posts is proud to issue a commemorative Postage Stamp on 2900^th Janm Kalyanak of Bhagwan Parshvanath, recognizing his enduring contributions to human welfare and spirituality.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Ms. Anjali

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 303500

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Parsvanatha

Born on 872 B.C. at Varanasi, Kingdom of Kashi [now Uttar Pradesh, India]

Died on 772 B.C. at Shri Sammed Shikharji, Parasnath Hill [now in Giridih, Jharkhand, India]

About : 

• 2900 years ago, in the historic city of Varanasi in Bharatvarsha, King Ashvasena ruled with compassion and justice. His queen, Vamadevi, carried within her a magnificent soul, heralded by 14/16 divine dreams. During her pregnancy, Queen Vamadevi had the vision of a snake by her side in the dead of the night. Acting swiftly, she informed the King, ultimately saving his life from imminent danger. When the time came, she gave birth to a son at midnight on the 10^th/11^th day of the dark fortnight of Pausha, under the Vishakha constellation. The boy was named Parshva Kumar. In celebration of his birth, King Ashvasena organized a grand ten day festival, distributing abundant donations of food, clothing, and wealth to the people.
• From an early age, Parshva Kumar demonstrated fearlessness, intellectual brilliance, and a natural inclination towards religious life. His education was marked by diligence, enabling him to excel in knowledge as well as skills such as weaponry and horsemanship, all achieved through his sharp intellect. As Parshva Kumar reached adulthood, King Ashvasena arranged his marriage with Princess Prabhavati, daughter of King Prasenajit. However, the Digambar tradition holds that Parshva Kumar remained unmarried. Despite living a royal life, Parshva Kumar remained detached and absorbed in spiritual contemplation.
• Recognizing the appropriate time for renunciation, Parshva Kumar began distributing his worldly possessions. On the eleventh day of the dark fortnight of Pausha, he reached the Ashram Udyana in central Varanasi. There, beneath an Ashoka tree, he performed the ritual of plucking out his hair in five handfuls, removed his ornaments, and initiated himself into asceticism. As a monk, Muni Parshva devoted himself to meditation and spiritual practice. Traveling widely, he preached the principles of dharma, truth, and ahimsa (non-violence) to the masses. On one of his journeys, he returned to the Ashram Udyana in Varanasi, where he entered in deep meditation beneath a Ghataki tree. After an eight-day fast, he overcame all destructive karmas, attaining omniscience (Kevala Jnana) and omni perception. Following his enlightenment, Bhagwan Parshvanath delivered discourses for the spiritual upliftment of all living beings. His powerful and lucid teachings drew many followers, including King Ashvasena, Queen Vamadevi, Queen Prabhavati, and numerous scholars who were inspired to take Jain initiation.
• Text : Referenced from content provided by Proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Dec 25, 2024

Issued for : To commemorate this historic occasion, the Department of Posts is proud to issue a commemorative Postage Stamp on 2800^th Nirvan Kalyanak of Bhagwan Parshvanath, recognizing his enduring contributions to human welfare and spirituality.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Ms. Himani

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 303500

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Parsvanatha

Born on 872 B.C. at Varanasi, Kingdom of Kashi [now Uttar Pradesh, India]

Died on 772 B.C. at Shri Sammed Shikharji, Parasnath Hill [now in Giridih, Jharkhand, India]

About : 

• In the historical city of Varanasi, 2900 years ago, King Ashvasen and Queen Vamadevi were blessed with a son in the midnight of Paush Krishna 10/11. The boy child was named Parshva Kumar. In due course, his education started and with sharp intelligence, he was praised by his teachers. He also excelled in horsemanship and weaponry. Gifted with three types of Gyan (Knowledge) — Mati (sensory knowledge), Shruti (scriptural knowledge), and Avadhi (clairvoyance) since birth, he realized the transitory nature of worldly comforts. Therefore, he decided to embrace asceticism.
• On Pausha Krishna Ekadasi, Parshva Kumar, standing under a Ashoka tree in Varanasi, plucked out five fistfuls of his hair, and initiated himself into monkhood. Immediately upon his initiation, he attained the fourth knowledge— Manahparyaya Gyan (a kind of telepathy).
• On the eighty-fourth day of his spiritual journey and completing an eight-day fast, he achieved Omniscience (Keval Gyan) and Omniperception (Keval Darshan) at Varanasi on Chaitra Krishna 4.
• After attaining omniscience, Bhagwan Parshvanath visited many places and delivered profound religious discourses. His teachings of non violence, truth and self restraint inspired numerous followers for their spiritual upliftment. He explained the essence of dharma and strongly opposed rituals like animal sacrifice and the ostentation prevalent in religious practices at that time and reviving the true essence of Dharma.
• As his liberation (moksha) drew near, Parshvanath, along with thirty-three monks, traveled to Mount Sammet Shikhar. There, he undertook a fast until death. After fasting for one month and having completed 100 years of life, he attained liberation on the eighth day of the bright fortnight of Shravana, under the Vishakha constellation. Bhagwan Parshvanath’s teachings left an indelible mark on Jain tradition. Jain devotees consider their lives fulfilled by remembering and venerating Bhagwan Parshvanath daily.
• Jainacharya Shri Jinapiyushsagar Suriswarji M.S. regards Bhagwan Parshvanath as an exceptionally influential Tirthankara. Parshvanath’s Nirvan, occurred 250 years before Bhagwan Mahaveer’s Nirvan, which took place on Diwali. As we are now in the 2550^th year of Mahaveer’s Nirvan, it follows that this year marks the 2800^th year of Bhagwan Parshvanath’s Nirvan.
• To honor this significant event, various activities and commemorative events will take place across the country, celebrating the teachings and legacy of Bhagwan Parshvanath, and emphasizing his principles of truth, non-violence, and compassion.
• Text : Referenced from content provided by Proponent.

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