Rahul Sankrityayan (1893-1963)

Commemorative Stamp Set: Maha Pandit Rahul Sankrityayan

Design Elements

• Stamp Design: Features a portrait of Maha Pandit Rahul Sankrityayan against a backdrop of significant locations from his life, such as Pandaha, Azamgarh, and Tibet.
• Background: Includes visual elements representing his travels, Buddhist scriptures, and significant literary contributions.
• Text: Inscriptions commemorating his birth centenary and his contributions to literature, philosophy, and Buddhism.

Cultural and Historical Significance

• Early Life and Education: Highlights his birth on April 9, 1893, in Pandaha, Azamgarh, and his early education at an Urdu Madrasa, which ignited his desire to travel.
• Spiritual Journey: Chronicles his journey through various religious and philosophical paths, including Vedanta, Hindu scriptures, Arya Samaj, and ultimately Buddhism.
• Literary Contributions: Celebrates his authorship and translation of over 123 books in Hindi and his efforts in bringing Tibetan literature to India.
• Political Engagement: Acknowledges his participation in the Non-Cooperation Movement and Kisan Satyagraha.
• Recognition: Notes his receipt of the Padma Bhushan for his literary and scholarly contributions.

Usage

• Postal Services: Used for mailing letters and parcels, enhancing public recognition of Rahul Sankrityayan’s historical significance.
• Commemorative Collections: Added to philatelic collections as a tribute to his life and contributions.
• Educational Tools: Utilized in educational contexts to teach about his impact on literature, philosophy, and Indian history.

Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set

• Recognition: Officially honors Maha Pandit Rahul Sankrityayan for his distinguished contributions to literature, philosophy, and Buddhism.
• Awareness: Raises awareness about his significant role in preserving and promoting Buddhist scriptures and his extensive travels.
• Inspiration: Inspires future generations to appreciate the value of knowledge, exploration, and cultural preservation.

Example of the Stamp Design

The stamp design showcases a portrait of Maha Pandit Rahul Sankrityayan, surrounded by symbols of his travels, Buddhist scriptures, and literary works, set against a backdrop of significant locations from his life.

The Commemorative Stamp Set Might Include:

Significance

• Early Influences: Highlights the impact of the couplet “सैर कर दुनिया की गाफिल, जिन्दगानी फिर कहां। जिन्दगी गर कुछ रही तो, नौजवानी फिर कहां।” on his desire to travel.
• Spiritual and Philosophical Journey: Chronicles his engagement with various religious and philosophical teachings, leading to his eventual embrace of Buddhism.
• Academic Contributions: Celebrates his role as a Professor of Sanskrit and Pali in Russia and his extensive literary contributions.
• Exploration and Preservation: Recognizes his four expeditions to Tibet and his efforts in bringing back valuable Tibetan literature to India.
• National Movement: Acknowledges his active participation in the Indian independence movement and his imprisonment for political activities.
• Literary Legacy: Notes his authorship of over 123 books and his receipt of the Padma Bhushan for his literary and scholarly achievements.
• Life Philosophy: Emphasizes his life motto: “Go wandering – life is short O thou who is missing it. Even if you live long, what about the youth.”

By commemorating Maha Pandit Rahul Sankrityayan with a stamp set, the postal department honors his significant contributions to literature, philosophy, and cultural preservation, ensuring his legacy is remembered and celebrated.