Gurukula Kangri Vishwavidyalaya University, Hardwar

Commemorative Stamp Set: Gurukula Kangri Vishwavidyalaya

Design Elements:

• Ved Mandir Illustration: The stamp prominently features the Ved Mandir, a sacred building within the Gurukula Kangri Vishwavidyalaya, symbolizing the institution’s commitment to Vedic education and ancient Indian knowledge systems.
• Superimposed Image of Ancient Gurukulas: The design incorporates an image of a traditional gurukula setting, where students are seen sitting around their guru, emphasizing the institution’s adherence to ancient learning traditions.
• Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati and Swami Shradhanand Portraits: The founders and ideologues of the institution are depicted in the stamp to honor their contributions and vision.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

• Roots in Vedic Education: Founded in 1902 by Swami Shradhanand based on the ideals of Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati, the Gurukula Kangri Vishwavidyalaya is a modern adaptation of the ancient Indian education system, where both spiritual and practical knowledge are imparted in a gurukula setting.
• Nationalist and Reformist Movements: The institution has played a significant role in India’s freedom movement and has been instrumental in various social reform movements, advocating for the eradication of caste-based discrimination and promoting education for all.
• Intellectual Contributions: The university has produced numerous scholars, parliamentarians, historians, and educationists, making significant contributions to various fields.

Usage:

• The stamp can be used by educational institutions, postal services, and philatelic collectors to honor the contribution of Gurukula Kangri Vishwavidyalaya to Indian education and culture.
• Commemorative Events: The stamp is suitable for use during centenary celebrations, educational conferences, and events focused on traditional Indian learning methods.

Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set:

• Preservation of Ancient Learning: The stamp honors the institution’s commitment to the preservation of Vedic knowledge and the Indian system of gurukulas, promoting ancient texts such as the Vedas and Upanishads.
• Modern Education in a Traditional Framework: Gurukula Kangri Vishwavidyalaya is unique in its approach to integrating modern education, such as science, management, and computers, with traditional values and disciplines, emphasizing the holistic development of both body and soul.
• Role in Social Reformation: The institution’s contribution to nationalist causes and social reform movements has made it a beacon of progressive education in India, where values of truthfulness, equality, and service to humanity are instilled in the students.

Example of the Stamp Design:

• The stamp design features the Ved Mandir, surrounded by lush greenery, highlighting the serene and disciplined environment of a traditional gurukula. The superimposed image shows students learning in the traditional manner from their guru, connecting the modern institution to its ancient roots.

The commemorative stamp set might include:

1. The Ved Mandir of the University – symbolizing the spiritual and intellectual center of the institution.
2. Traditional Gurukula Setting – emphasizing the institution’s adherence to the ancient Indian education model.
3. Founders’ Portraits – acknowledging the contributions of Swami Shradhanand and Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati.