4th Centenary “Ram Charit Manas”

On May 24, 1975, India Post issued a 25 paise stamp to commemorate the 4th Centenary of the "Ram Charit Manas," the monumental epic composed by the poet-saint Goswami Tulsidas in the 16th century. Written in Awadhi, a dialect of Hindi, this work was revolutionary because it made the sacred story of the Ramayana accessible to the masses, moving beyond the traditional Sanskrit used by scholars of the time. The stamp celebrates the profound spiritual and cultural impact of a text that has shaped the moral and social fabric of northern India for four centuries. By emphasizing devotion (Bhakti) and the ideal of Ram Rajya (a just and righteous kingdom), the Ram Charit Manas became much more than a literary work; it became a daily guide for millions. Its verses, particularly the Chaupais, are widely recited in households and during the famous Ramleela performances, cementing its place as one of the most influential pieces of devotional literature in world history. This commemorative issue honors the literary genius of Tulsidas and the enduring legacy of an epic that continues to inspire art, music, and philosophy. For collectors, the stamp represents a tribute to India's rich linguistic heritage and the power of literature to unite and uplift society across generations.

Technical data Notes Condition

Date of issue May 24, 1975

Denomination 25 p

Quantity printed 3000000

Printer Security Printing Press, Nashik

Perforation comb 13

Watermark No Watermark

Colours Multicolor

Catalogue codes Michel IN 629 Stamp Number IN 660 Yvert et Tellier IN 432 Stanley Gibbons IN 767

Themes Anniversaries and Jubilees, Poems

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About this stamp

Ram Charit Manas, an epic composed by the renowned Hindi poet Goswami Tulsidas approximately 400 years ago, stands as a testament to his profound emotional journey. Born into abject poverty, Tulsidas faced numerous hardships throughout his life, which deeply influenced his emotional landscape. He channeled his emotions into a plethora of devotional works, with Ram charit manas being the most notable among them. This epic recounts the story of Rama, the exemplary king who once ruled Ayodhya, portraying him as a common man endowed with divine qualities.

In meticulous detail, Ram charit manas elucidates a code of conduct for individuals in all spheres of life, advocating ideals for the greater good of society while emphasizing the ultimate triumph of Good over Evil. Comprising predominantly of Dohas and Chaupayees—two-lined and four-lined poetic meters—Ram charit manas is divided into seven cantos. Throughout the work, the author’s unwavering devotion to Rama and his complete surrender to him are evident, akin to a silken thread woven into the fabric of the narrative.

The profound influence of Ram charit manas on the collective consciousness is a testament to the nobility of the ideals it espouses. The issuance of a commemorative postage stamp on Ram charit manas by the Posts and Telegraphs Department is considered a privilege, as it serves to disseminate the profound message of this great epic to every corner of the globe.