Death Bicentenary of Baba Jassa Singh Ahluwalia (1718-1783)
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Death Centenary |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | April 4, 1985 |
| Denomination | 50 p |
| Quantity | 1,500,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Deep red purple |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1019 Stamp Number IN 1086 Yvert et Tellier IN 835 Stanley Gibbons IN 1157 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Famous people | Men | Sultan |
Commemorative Stamp: Baba Jassa Singh Ahluwalia
Baba Jassa Singh Ahluwalia, a towering figure in Sikh history, was born on May 3, 1718, in Ahlu, near Lahore (now in Pakistan). He rose to prominence as a fearless warrior and a spiritual leader during the tumultuous period of Sikh history marked by foreign invasions and Mughal rule.
Early Life and Education
- Upbringing: Orphaned at a young age, Jassa Singh was raised by his mother and uncle. He received blessings from Mata Sundarji, Guru Gobind Singh’s spouse in Delhi, who played a significant role in his upbringing.
- Education and Training: Fluent in Persian and Arabic, Jassa Singh also honed his skills in warfare under Nawab Kapur Singh Faizullahpura, a revered Sikh leader who adopted him as his son.
Leadership and Contributions
- Supreme Commander: After Nawab Kapur Singh’s death in 1753, Jassa Singh emerged as the natural leader of the Sikhs. He led them to significant victories, including the conquest of Lahore in November 1761.
- Military and Spiritual Leadership: Known for his towering presence and formidable prowess in battle, Jassa Singh was also a spiritual beacon for Sikhs. He restored the holy Golden Temple (Durbar Sahib) to its former glory after attacks by Ahmed Shah Abdali, contributing generously from his personal wealth.
- Defender of Faith: Revered as ‘Dharamvir’ for his unwavering commitment to Sikh religious traditions and his role in safeguarding Sikhism during turbulent times.
Legacy and Impact
- Historical Significance: Jassa Singh’s leadership was pivotal in defending against foreign invasions and resisting Mughal dominance. His contributions ensured the preservation of Sikh culture, religion, and sovereignty.
- Demise and Legacy: Baba Jassa Singh Ahluwalia passed away in 1783. His mortal remains were cremated at Burj Baba Atal Sahib in Amritsar, where his ‘Samadhi’ remains a revered site to this day.
Commemorative Stamp
Issued by the Indian Department of Posts, this commemorative stamp honors Baba Jassa Singh Ahluwalia’s exemplary life as a spiritual leader and warrior who left an indelible mark on Sikh history. It celebrates his courage, leadership, and enduring legacy in defending Sikh values and traditions.
This commemorative stamp pays tribute to Baba Jassa Singh Ahluwalia, a stalwart of Sikh history whose leadership and valor continue to inspire generations.