Rajmata Jijabai (1598-1674)
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | July 7, 1999 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 3 |
| Quantity | 700000 |
| Perforation | comb 14 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Dull claret |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1689 Stamp Number IN 1750 Yvert et Tellier IN 1456 Stanley Gibbons IN 1852 |
| Themes | Children | Commemoration | Famous people | Women | |
Table of Contents
Commemorative Stamp Set: Jijabai
Design Elements:
- Central Figure: The stamp features Jijabai, depicted in traditional attire, symbolizing her role as the mother of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and a guiding force in his rise to power.
- Historical Background: The backdrop of the stamp highlights key elements of Jijabai’s life, including the fort of Kondana (Sinhgad) where she was imprisoned and later reunited with her son.
- Symbolic Imagery: The design incorporates imagery related to Shivaji’s early military training and the Maratha Empire’s establishment, reflecting Jijabai’s influence on her son’s achievements.
Cultural and Historical Significance:
- Mother of Shivaji Maharaj: Jijabai is celebrated for her pivotal role in shaping the destiny of her son, who founded the Maratha Empire and challenged the dominance of the Bijapur Sultanate and the Mughal Empire.
- Symbol of Ideal Motherhood: Known as ‘Jij Mata’, she embodies the ideal of a mother who not only nurtures but also inspires and supports her child in transforming society and influencing historical events.
Usage:
- Educational Tool: The stamp serves as a medium to educate the public about Jijabai’s significant contributions and her influence on Indian history.
- Commemorative Collectible: It is a collector’s item honoring her legacy and the historical impact of her support for Shivaji Maharaj.
Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set:
- Recognition of Legacy: The issuance of this stamp acknowledges Jijabai’s crucial role in the establishment of the Maratha Empire and her exemplary role as a mother and advisor.
- Historical Appreciation: It highlights her contribution to Indian history and celebrates the transformative impact of her guidance on the course of the nation’s development.
Example of the Stamp Design:
- Front Design: Jijabai, adorned in traditional Marathi attire, with symbols of Maratha sovereignty and elements representing Shivaji’s military campaigns.
- Background Elements: Scenes from the fort of Kondana, martial arts training, and the coronation of Shivaji Maharaj, encapsulating her support and influence over his rise.
Significance:
- Historical Impact: Jijabai’s life and legacy continue to inspire and reflect the role of maternal influence in shaping historical and national narratives. The stamp honors her as a symbol of strength, vision, and the transformative power of motherhood.