About this stamp
The 14 Annas commemorative stamp was issued as part of the complete set of two stamps released on the occasion of the 2500th Buddha Jayanti. The stamp is remarkable for its rich Buddhist symbolism and artistic design.
The Sacred Bodhi Tree
On the right side of the stamp is a representation of the sacred Bodhi Tree at Bodh Gaya. It was beneath this Asvattha tree that Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment and became the Buddha.
In Buddhist tradition, the Bodhi tree symbolizes the supreme moment when Gautama transcended worldly suffering and discovered the path of truth, wisdom, and liberation. For this reason, the tree has become one of the most sacred symbols of Buddhism and remains an important centre of pilgrimage and meditation.
The Sarnath Umbrella
The round figure shown on the left side of the stamp is a replica of the great stone umbrella that once surmounted a colossal Bodhisattva statue at Sarnath.
This umbrella was carved during the reign of Kanishka in the first or second century A.D. The sculpture measures nearly ten feet in diameter and is decorated with a series of concentric ornamental bands.
Decorative Bands and Symbols
At the centre of the umbrella is a pierced projection in the form of a lotus. Surrounding this lotus is a ring containing twelve mythical animals.
The next band is decorated with eleven auspicious Buddhist symbols, including:
- The Three Jewels
- A pair of fish
- A fleur-de-lis
- A vase with foliage
- A conch
- A swastika
- A vase filled with fruits or sweets
- A cup of leaves
- Three honeysuckle motifs
The outermost border of the umbrella is formed by a ring of lotus petals.
These sacred symbols reflect Buddhist beliefs in purity, prosperity, good fortune, and spiritual truth.
Significance of the Stamp
The 14 Annas stamp beautifully combines two important symbols of Buddhism—the Bodhi tree of Bodh Gaya and the ceremonial umbrella of Sarnath. Together they represent both the spiritual message of the Buddha and the artistic heritage of early Buddhist India.
As part of the 2500th Buddha Jayanti commemorative issue, the stamp pays tribute to the enduring influence of Buddhism and to the life and teachings of the Buddha.
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