150th Birth Anniversary of Anagarika Dharmapala
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | October 25, 2014 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 600,000 |
| Perforation | 13½ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Sh. Sankha Samanta Smt. Alka Sharma |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 2848 Yvert et Tellier IN 2592 Stanley Gibbons IN 3021 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Authors | Buddhism | Famous people | Literary People (Poets and Writers) | Literature | Religion |
Early Life and Spiritual Inclination
Anagarika Dharmapala, one of the greatest torchbearers of the Buddhist revival in Sri Lanka (then Ceylon) and across the world, was born on 17 September 1864 in the Pettah district of Colombo. Born as David Hewavitarne, he was raised in an atmosphere steeped in traditional Sinhala Buddhist piety. From a young age, he took refuge in the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha, committing himself to the Five Precepts.
At the age of nine, he was initiated into Brahmacharya, a vow of celibacy and self-discipline, by his father. This early training shaped his ascetic temperament, cultivating in him a deep love for meditation, solitude and spiritual study.
Renunciation and Dedication to Humanity
Dharmapala’s spiritual journey drew him to Madame Blavatsky and the Theosophical Society, whose teachings influenced his early worldview. At twenty, he left his home to dedicate his life to the service of humanity. Renouncing his English name, he adopted the title “Anagarika”, meaning “homeless one,” and “Dharmapala,” meaning “protector of the Dharma.”
He devoted himself to the promotion of Buddhism, the establishment of schools, and the upliftment of society through education and moral values.
Turning Point: The Call of Bodh Gaya
Anagarika Dharmapala’s visit to Bodh Gaya in January 1891 marked a defining moment in his life and in the modern history of Buddhism. Shocked by the neglected condition of the sacred Mahabodhi Temple, he resolved to restore and protect this holiest of Buddhist sites.
To support the temple’s renovation, he travelled extensively around the world, raising awareness and mobilizing funds. On 31 May 1891, he founded the Mahabodhi Society in Colombo, which soon became a global force in Buddhist revival. In early 1892, the Society’s headquarters were shifted to Calcutta, strengthening its presence in India.
He also initiated the Maha Bodhi Journal, which served as a vital link among Buddhist nations by sharing news and developments.
A Voice of Buddhism on the World Stage
Dharmapala gained international recognition when he attended the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893. His powerful oratory and deep commitment to the Dharma made him one of the event’s most admired speakers.
Throughout his life, he continued to lecture, write, and spread the principles of Buddhism across continents. He founded significant Buddhist centres, including the Sri Dharmarajika Chaitya Vihara in Calcutta and the London Buddhist Vihara, expanding the global reach of Buddhist teachings.
Legacy and Passing
Anagarika Dharmapala spent his final years in Sarnath, a place deeply connected with the Buddha’s teachings. He passed away on 29 April 1933, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a global Buddhist reformer and revivalist.
Philatelic Tribute
To honour his invaluable contribution to Buddhism and humanity, a commemorative postage stamp on Anagarika Dharmapala was issued.
This stamp serves as a tribute to his lifelong mission of restoring sacred Buddhist heritage and spreading the message of peace and compassion throughout the world.