4th Centenary “Ram Charit Manas”

Ramcharitmanas

Technical Data

Date of Issue May 24, 1975
Denomination 25 p
Quantity 3,000,000
Perforation comb 13
Printer Security Printing Press, Nashik
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Multicolor
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 629

Stamp Number IN 660

Yvert et Tellier IN 432

Stanley Gibbons IN 767

Themes

Ram Charit Manas, an epic composed by the renowned Hindi poet Goswami Tulsidas approximately 400 years ago, stands as a testament to his profound emotional journey. Born into abject poverty, Tulsidas faced numerous hardships throughout his life, which deeply influenced his emotional landscape. He channeled his emotions into a plethora of devotional works, with Ram charit manas being the most notable among them. This epic recounts the story of Rama, the exemplary king who once ruled Ayodhya, portraying him as a common man endowed with divine qualities.

In meticulous detail, Ram charit manas elucidates a code of conduct for individuals in all spheres of life, advocating ideals for the greater good of society while emphasizing the ultimate triumph of Good over Evil. Comprising predominantly of Dohas and Chaupayees—two-lined and four-lined poetic meters—Ram charit manas is divided into seven cantos. Throughout the work, the author’s unwavering devotion to Rama and his complete surrender to him are evident, akin to a silken thread woven into the fabric of the narrative.

The profound influence of Ram charit manas on the collective consciousness is a testament to the nobility of the ideals it espouses. The issuance of a commemorative postage stamp on Ram charit manas by the Posts and Telegraphs Department is considered a privilege, as it serves to disseminate the profound message of this great epic to every corner of the globe.