Department of Official Languages (Rajbhasha), 75 Years

Commemorative Stamp Set: Diamond Jubilee of Rajbhasha (Hindi)

Design Elements

Imagery:

• A prominent depiction of the Devanagari script with “हिंदी” (“Hindi”) in bold letters at the center.
• Visuals of key milestones such as the Constituent Assembly’s Hindi Day debate, the signing of the Official Languages Act of 1963, and the symbol of unity through Hindi.
• Depictions of recent technological advancements, including a visual of “Kanthastha” software and the “Hindi Shabd Sindhu” dictionary.
• The Bhartiya Bhasha Anubhag’s initiative for official correspondence in Indian languages is subtly represented with a design of interconnected states in a map of India.
• The background features the Department of Official Language’s logo and images from past Official Language Conferences, highlighting Varanasi, Surat, and Pune.

Color Palette:

• A vibrant mix of saffron, white, and green symbolizing the Indian flag with golden and deep blue accents, representing the significance of the official language.

Text Elements:

• “Diamond Jubilee of Rajbhasha – 75 Years of Hindi as the Union’s Official Language” in both English and Hindi.
• Key phrases, such as “Unity in Diversity,” “Official Language of India,” and “Hindi Diwas,” symbolizing the language’s role in India’s administrative and cultural domains.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Hindi Day on September 14 marks the Constituent Assembly’s decision in 1949 to designate Hindi as the Union’s official language, acknowledging its role in unifying India’s linguistically diverse population. Over the years, legislative measures like the Official Languages Act, 1963, and progressive initiatives have promoted Hindi’s use, fostering an inclusive cultural and linguistic landscape. Hindi has connected diverse linguistic communities across India while promoting linguistic heritage through advancements like digital dictionaries and translation software.

Usage

The stamp set will serve as:

• Postal Stamp: Commemorating Hindi’s 75-year journey as a unifying language across India.
• Educational Symbol: Informing the public about the historical and administrative significance of Hindi in national unity.
• Collector’s Item: A tribute for philatelists and cultural enthusiasts interested in India’s linguistic history.

Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set

This commemorative issue honors Hindi’s role in Indian governance and identity. It underscores the language’s evolution from debates in the Constituent Assembly to its modern-day significance, marked by advancements in language technology and initiatives to preserve India’s linguistic diversity. The stamp emphasizes Hindi’s role in bridging communities and regions while highlighting its cultural, administrative, and historical importance.

Example of the Stamp Design

A primary stamp design could feature the word “हिंदी” in large Devanagari script with an intricate design surrounding it, symbolizing various regions of India, combined with symbols of Hindi’s historical journey.

Significance

The Diamond Jubilee stamp set stands as a testament to Hindi’s influence in shaping India’s identity. Celebrating 75 years of Rajbhasha, the set captures Hindi’s profound role in fostering national integration, symbolizing unity in India’s diverse linguistic landscape.