400th Prakash GuruParab of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | April 21, 2022 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 25 |
| Quantity | 504,000 |
| Perforation | 14 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Mr. Suresh Kumar Ms. Nenu Gupta |
| Catalog Codes |
Yvert et Tellier IN 3463 Stanley Gibbons IN 3815 Michel IN 3786 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Buildings | Famous people | Men | Temples |
A Tribute to the Ninth Sikh Guru
The Government of India commemorated the 400th Prakash Gurpurab of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji (1621–1675) at the national and international level with great reverence. To mark this historic occasion, the Department of Posts issued a Commemorative Postage Stamp on Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s 400th Birth Anniversary, honoring the ninth Sikh Guru’s supreme sacrifice and spiritual legacy.
National Celebration of the 400th Prakash Gurpurab
A High-Level Committee, chaired by the Hon’ble Prime Minister, was constituted in 2020 to plan and oversee the commemoration. Cultural programs, seminars, and spiritual gatherings were organized across India, culminating in grand closing ceremonies at the Red Fort, Delhi, on 20th and 21st April 2022. The release of the commemorative stamp was a proud moment, symbolizing the nation’s tribute to the Guru’s eternal message of faith, freedom, and humanity.
Life and Legacy of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji
Born in 1621, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was the son of Guru Hargobind Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru and founder of the Akal Takht. He was also the grandson of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the first Sikh martyr, and the father of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru. Guru Ji was a scholar, poet, and fearless warrior, deeply rooted in Sikh values and classical spiritual traditions. His hymns, composed in deep devotion, are preserved in the Sri Guru Granth Sahib, with his Bani in Raga Jayjawanti being unique to him.
Guru Ji travelled extensively across India—Punjab, Shivalik Hills, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Bengal, and Assam—spreading the message of peace, equality, and spiritual awakening. He founded the sacred city of Anandpur Sahib, which remains a spiritual and cultural hub for Sikhs.
The Supreme Sacrifice
In 1675, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji faced execution in Delhi on the orders of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb for defending the religious freedom of Kashmiri Pandits. Despite being imprisoned and tortured, Guru Ji refused to renounce his faith or perform miracles to prove his divinity. His companions were executed before his eyes, yet he remained steadfast. Ultimately, Guru Ji was beheaded in Chandni Chowk, Delhi, for upholding the right to religious freedom.
The places of his martyrdom and cremation are today marked by Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib and Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib in Delhi, which stand as enduring symbols of his courage and sacrifice. His martyrdom, remembered annually as Shaheedi Diwas (24th November), continues to inspire generations.
Eternal Message
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji is remembered as the “Hind di Chadar” (Shield of India) for giving his life to protect the oppressed. His teachings emphasize courage, compassion, and devotion to truth. His hymns reflect the highest ideals of human existence—devotion, sacrifice, and the quest for spiritual freedom.
The Commemorative Stamp
The Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji 400th Birth Anniversary Stamp is more than a postal issue—it is a timeless tribute to the Guru’s unparalleled sacrifice and his role in safeguarding the spiritual freedom of India. Through this stamp, the Department of Posts honors the Guru’s eternal message of unity, justice, and humanity, making it a significant addition to India’s philatelic heritage.
First Day Cover
