Gandhi and Declaration

Commemorative Stamp Set

This set honors the profound message conveyed by Mahatma Gandhi during the Dandi March, especially highlighting his declaration on April 5, 1930. The set symbolizes Gandhi’s appeal to the world for support in the struggle against British rule, encapsulating the moral and political conviction behind the Civil Disobedience Movement.

Design Elements

Visuals:

• Stamp 1: A close-up of Mahatma Gandhi with a serene, determined expression, standing with a staff. The backdrop features an excerpt of his handwritten declaration: “I want world sympathy in this battle of Right against the might.”
• Stamp 2: The text of Gandhi’s statement overlaid on a background of marchers, with Gandhi leading the way. A subtle depiction of the Salt Satyagraha, portraying the unity and determination of the marchers.

Color Palette:

• Muted shades of brown, sepia, and black to evoke a vintage, historical feel.
• Light background for the handwritten text to ensure readability.

Text Elements:

• Prominent display of Gandhi’s lines: “I want world sympathy in this battle of Right against the might.”
• Date caption: “April 5, 1930 – The Eve of the Salt Satyagraha.”

Cultural and Historical Significance

The Dandi March was more than just a protest against the salt tax; it was a strategic move by Gandhi to draw global attention to the injustices faced by Indians under colonial rule. On April 5, 1930, a day before he picked up salt, Gandhi wrote these powerful lines, signaling his intention to appeal to a broader moral conscience and rally the world’s support. It demonstrated how the fight for India’s freedom was rooted in universal values of justice and human rights.

Usage

These stamps can be used for:

• Postage: To spread Gandhi’s message across letters and postcards, both domestically and internationally.
• Commemorative Collectibles: A cherished addition for collectors of Indian history and philatelic enthusiasts.
• Educational Resources: Schools and institutions can utilize the stamp design to discuss the context and significance of Gandhi’s message.

Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set

The stamp set encapsulates a pivotal moment in Indian history, showcasing Gandhi’s profound way of articulating a simple yet powerful message. His words reflect not just a national sentiment but an appeal to the world, drawing attention to the moral high ground of India’s freedom struggle. This set becomes a symbol of India’s dedication to nonviolent resistance and the universal quest for justice and freedom.

Example of the Stamp Design

Stamp 1:

• Visual: Gandhi in a thoughtful, poised stance, with his handwritten declaration softly superimposed in the background.
• Text: “April 5, 1930 – On the Eve of the Salt Satyagraha.”

Stamp 2:

• Visual: Gandhi’s lines in elegant, script-like font over an image of the marchers, with Gandhi at the forefront, symbolizing leadership and resolve.
• Text: “I want world sympathy in this battle of Right against the might.”

Miniature Sheet:

• Design: A collage combining Gandhi’s portrait, the declaration text, and a subtle overlay of the Salt Satyagraha route map. The sheet can also include a brief explanation of the significance of Gandhi’s statement and its impact on the Indian independence movement.

Significance

This commemorative stamp set celebrates the spirit of nonviolence, unity, and moral strength that defined the Salt Satyagraha. Gandhi’s words, written on the eve of the march, reflect the wider implications of the movement—an assertion that the fight was not just against a tax, but against an unjust system. The stamp set embodies the hope and determination of an entire nation, and it continues to inspire movements worldwide that advocate for justice through peaceful resistance.