400 Years of Guru Granth Sahib
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | June 16, 2005 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 10 |
| Quantity | 800000 |
| Perforation | 13 |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN III Stamp Number IN 2109 Stanley Gibbons IN Unlisted |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Books | religion | |
Table of Contents
Stamp: 400 Years of Guru Granth Sahib
Background
- Issue Prepared But Not Released: India Post prepared a commemorative stamp honoring 400 years of Guru Granth Sahib, the central religious scripture of Sikhism, to be released on June 16. However, disagreements arose between India Post and Sikh religious representatives, leading to the decision to halt the official release.
- Accidental Sale: Despite official orders, some post offices inadvertently sold the stamps at certain locations, making them highly collectible due to their limited availability.
Significance of Guru Granth Sahib
- Spiritual Text: The Guru Granth Sahib is not only a religious text but is also regarded as the eternal Guru in Sikhism. Compiled by Guru Arjan, the fifth Sikh Guru, in 1604, it encompasses a profound collection of spiritual teachings, including hymns by Sikh Gurus, Hindu saints, and Muslim mystics.
- Symbol of Unity and Peace: Known for its message of unity, equality, and universal brotherhood, the scripture serves as a bridge across religious and cultural divides.
Design and Commemorative Value
- Proposed Design Elements: The stamp likely featured traditional Punjabi motifs and religious symbols such as the Ik Onkar and the Golden Temple.
- Cultural and Historical Celebration: The stamp would have served to honor 400 years of Sikh history and spirituality, marking an important milestone for Sikhism and for India’s diverse cultural heritage.
Collectors’ Interest
- Rarity and Controversy: The limited release due to administrative errors has rendered this stamp a rare item among philatelists, adding to its allure as a part of Sikh and postal history.