Pho Minh Pagoda, Vietnam
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | India-Vietnam Joint Issue |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | January 25, 2018 |
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 500,000 |
| Perforation | 13¾ x 13¾ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Sh. Brahm Prakash Smt. Alka Sharma |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 3330A Yvert et Tellier IN 3330A Stanley Gibbons IN 3455 |
| Themes | Architecture | Buildings | Joint Issues | Temples |
The Pho Minh Pagoda, located 4 km north of Nam Dinh City and 94 km south of Hanoi, is one of Viet Nam’s most significant historical and religious monuments. Originally built during the Ly Dynasty and later expanded in 1262 under the Tran Dynasty, the pagoda served as a sacred space for high-ranking mandarins and members of the Tran royal court to practice their religious life and rituals.
The architecture and decorations of Pho Minh Pagoda reflect the artistic style of the Tran Dynasty. The complex features:
- Lotus flower ponds and lotus motifs at the base of pillars, symbolizing purity and spiritual awakening
- Tran-style dragon sculptures and stone candle holders, showcasing the dynasty’s intricate craftsmanship
A striking feature of the pagoda is the Pho Minh Tower, a 13-story lotus-shaped tower standing 19 meters tall, built in 1305 in the front yard of the pagoda. Its base and first floor are made of flagstones, while the upper floors are constructed with bricks. The tower is topped with a gourd-shaped decoration, believed to harness cosmic energy and symbolically connect the Earth with the Universe.
The Pho Minh Pagoda is a revered site for Vietnamese Buddhist pilgrims and tourists, especially during festival times, and represents a fusion of spiritual devotion, architectural mastery, and historical heritage. It remains an enduring symbol of Viet Nam’s religious and cultural identity.
Commemorative Stamp
In 2017, to celebrate the 45th Anniversary of India-Viet Nam diplomatic relations and their 10th Anniversary of Strategic Partnership, a commemorative stamp featuring Pho Minh Pagoda was issued. This joint issue highlights the ancient architectural heritage of Viet Nam, complementing India’s Sanchi Stupa on the paired stamp.