Centres of Culture and Tourism INDEXPEX’97 : The Bodhi Tree, Bodhgaya
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | INDIPEX 97 |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | June 6, 1997 |
| Denomination | Rs. 6 |
| Quantity | 500000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ x 13 |
| Printer | Calcutta Security Printers Ltd |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1550 Stamp Number IN 1629 Yvert et Tellier IN 1323 Stanley Gibbons IN 1714 |
| Themes | Elephants | Logos | Philatelic Exhibitions | Trees | |
Table of Contents
Commemorative Stamp Set: Centres of Culture and Tourism INDEXPEX ’97 – The Bodhi Tree, Bodhgaya
Design Elements
- Subject: The stamp prominently features the Bodhi Tree in Bodhgaya, which is central to Buddhist tradition as the place where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha.
- Visual Features: The design includes the Bodhi Tree, with its distinctive heart-shaped leaves, and the Mahabodhi Temple in the background. The temple’s soaring spire and intricately decorated walls are depicted to highlight its architectural and historical significance.
Cultural and Historical Significance
- The Bodhi Tree: The Bodhi Tree, located in the Mahabodhi Temple complex in Bodhgaya, Bihar, is one of the most revered sites in Buddhism. It is believed to be a direct descendant of the original tree under which Siddhartha Gautama meditated and achieved enlightenment around 2,500 years ago.
- Mahabodhi Temple: This ancient temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and marks the spot where the Buddha attained Nirvana. The current structure is a result of renovations and restorations done over centuries, with its origins dating back to the 3rd century BCE, built by Emperor Ashoka. The temple’s intricate carvings and the surrounding monastic complex have been pivotal in the development of Buddhist architectural and artistic traditions.
Usage
- Domestic and International Postage: The stamp was issued for use in both domestic and international mail, promoting India’s cultural heritage and the significance of the Bodhi Tree and Bodhgaya.
- Philatelic Collections: As part of the INDEXPEX ’97 series, this stamp is a valuable addition to philatelic collections, especially for those interested in cultural and historical themes.
Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set
The stamp highlighting the Bodhi Tree and Bodhgaya serves multiple purposes:
- Cultural Promotion: It raises awareness of Bodhgaya’s pivotal role in Buddhist history and its significance as a pilgrimage site.
- Tourism: By featuring a key cultural site, the stamp aims to encourage tourism to Bodhgaya, contributing to the local economy and fostering global interest in India’s spiritual heritage.
- Educational Value: The stamp serves as an educational tool, informing the public about the historical and religious importance of the Bodhi Tree and the Mahabodhi Temple.
Example of the Stamp Design
- Visual Depiction: The stamp’s design captures the essence of Bodhgaya’s spiritual ambiance with detailed imagery of the Bodhi Tree and the Mahabodhi Temple. The tree’s lush foliage and the temple’s grandeur are depicted to convey their significance and beauty.
Significance
The stamp in the INDEXPEX ’97 series underscores India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. By commemorating the Bodhi Tree and Bodhgaya, it highlights the importance of these sites in global religious and cultural contexts, fostering a greater appreciation and understanding of their historical value.