Sree Thakur Satyananda (1902-1969)
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | July 23, 2002 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 400,000 |
| Perforation | Syncopated 13 |
| Printer | Calcutta Security Printers Ltd |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1909 Stamp Number IN 1961 Yvert et Tellier IN 1674 Stanley Gibbons IN 2076 WADP Numbering System - WNS IN021.02 |
| Themes | Commemoration | Famous people | Men |
Table of Contents
Sree Thakur Satyananda (1902-1969)
Sree Thakur Satyananda (1902-1969) was an ascetic, philosopher, writer, and poet whose contributions left a profound impact on the spiritual, social, and cultural life of 20th-century West Bengal. His life and teachings continue to inspire people, especially through the institutions founded in his honor.
Key Contributions and Achievements:
Spiritual Leadership:
- Sree Thakur Satyananda lived a life of austerity, deeply committed to contemplation and spiritual practice. After achieving supreme realization in 1939, he began spreading his teachings on spiritual upliftment and self-realization.
- His ashrams became centers for spiritual training, where he promoted equality in religious practice. He firmly believed that spiritual progress was possible for all, regardless of caste, class, or gender.
Social Reform:
- Sree Thakur was committed to social service, establishing ashrams in rural and remote areas like Birbhum, Rampurhat, and Dumka. These ashrams focused on humanitarian activities such as the distribution of food, clothing, and medicines.
- He was also a strong proponent of education, founding institutes that provided primary, secondary, and college education to people in underprivileged areas. His ashrams also offered training in agricultural and cottage industries.
Cultural Impact:
- As a prolific writer and poet, Sree Thakur composed over 7,000 songs and numerous dance-dramas and rural folk theatre scenarios. His works harmonized the joys of life with the pursuit of spirituality.
- He organized cultural activities to blend spiritual teachings with artistic expression, making spirituality accessible and enjoyable for the masses.
Blending Science and Tradition:
- Sree Thakur was committed to updating the ancient shastras, incorporating modern scientific thoughts with traditional Indian wisdom. His discourses reflect a unique blending of modern science with ancient scriptural knowledge, particularly in the fields of medicine and spiritual philosophy.
Legacy:
- Two key institutions—Sree Satyananda Devayatan and Sree Satyananda Mahapeeth—were founded by his followers to keep his ideals and teachings alive. These institutions continue to promote educational, social, and spiritual activities, preserving Sree Thakur’s message of equality, spiritual growth, and cultural harmony.
Significance:
Sree Thakur Satyananda’s contributions were not confined to the spiritual realm; his efforts encompassed social reform, education, and cultural revival. His holistic approach to life, where spirituality, science, and culture intersect, made him a unique figure in modern Indian history.