Centres of Culture and Tourism INDEXPEX’97 : Nalanda Monastic University
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | INDIPEX 97 |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | June 6, 1997 |
| Denomination | Rs. 2 |
| Quantity | 500,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ x 13 |
| Printer | Calcutta Security Printers Ltd |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1549 Stamp Number IN 1628 Yvert et Tellier IN 1322 Stanley Gibbons IN 1713 |
| Themes | Elephants | Logos | Philatelic Exhibitions | Universities |
Table of Contents
Nalanda Monastic University
Design Elements
- Subject: The stamp features the historic ruins of Nalanda University, one of the most renowned ancient universities in the world.
- Visual Features: The design showcases the impressive ruins of the monastic university, including the remains of its once-grand structures, such as the lecture halls, residential quarters, and temples. The architecture’s distinctive elements, such as the columns and remains of ancient Buddhist stupas, are highlighted to convey the grandeur of Nalanda’s past.
Cultural and Historical Significance
- Nalanda University: Founded in the 5th century CE, Nalanda University was a prestigious center of learning in ancient India, attracting scholars and students from across Asia. It was a major hub of Buddhist scholarship and intellectual pursuit, and its curriculum included a wide range of subjects including Buddhist studies, logic, grammar, medicine, and astronomy.
- Historical Impact: Nalanda was a key institution for the spread of Buddhism and scholarly knowledge in ancient India. It played a crucial role in the intellectual and cultural exchange between India and other countries in Asia. The university’s library, considered one of the largest in the ancient world, housed countless manuscripts and texts, making it a beacon of learning and knowledge.
Usage
- Domestic and International Postage: The stamp was issued for both domestic and international mail, serving as a means to promote and celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage.
- Philatelic Collections: As part of the INDEXPEX ’97 series, this stamp is a valuable collectible for philatelists and historians interested in ancient Indian education and Buddhist history.
Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set
The stamp highlighting Nalanda Monastic University serves several important purposes:
- Cultural Heritage Promotion: It promotes awareness of Nalanda’s historical significance and its role in the development of education and Buddhism in ancient India.
- Tourism: By featuring Nalanda, the stamp encourages tourism to the archaeological site, helping to support preservation efforts and foster global interest in India’s historical landmarks.
- Educational Value: The stamp provides educational insight into the history and impact of Nalanda University, serving as a tool for learning about ancient Indian scholarship and Buddhist education.
Example of the Stamp Design
- Visual Depiction: The stamp’s design captures the essence of Nalanda’s architectural and historical grandeur with detailed imagery of its ruins. The illustration emphasizes the scale and complexity of the ancient university’s structures, reflecting its significance as a major educational institution in history.
Significance
The stamp in the INDEXPEX ’97 series not only celebrates Nalanda Monastic University’s contributions to education and Buddhism but also highlights its enduring legacy in global cultural heritage. By commemorating Nalanda, the stamp helps to preserve and promote the historical importance of one of the greatest centers of learning in ancient times.