Gurdwara Janam Asthan, Nankana Sahib, Pakistan
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | 550th Anniversary of Birth of Guru Nanak |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | November 9, 2019 |
| Denomination | Rs. 10 |
| Quantity | 500,000 |
| Perforation | 14¼ x 14¼ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Sh. Pallab Bose Shri Kamleshwar Singh Smt. Alka Sharma |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 3611 Stamp Number IN 3176 Yvert et Tellier IN 3288 Stanley Gibbons IN 3688 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Religion | Temples |
Birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Gurdwara Janam Asthan, located in Nankana Sahib (now in Pakistan), is one of the most sacred and historically significant Sikh shrines in the world. It marks the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born here in 1469 in the house of Mehta Kalu Ji and Mata Tripta Ji.
The town of Nankana Sahib, named after the great Guru himself, continues to be a place of immense spiritual reverence for Sikhs across the globe.
Historical Significance
Guru Nanak Dev Ji spent the early years of his childhood in Nankana Sahib. It was here that the young Nanak displayed extraordinary spiritual insight and compassion that would later shape his teachings. From a very young age, he questioned ritualism and social inequalities, advocating instead the values of truth, equality, humility, and devotion to one God.
Nankana Sahib became the cradle of Sikh philosophy, where Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s divine light first illuminated the path of righteousness and peace.
Architectural Splendour of the Gurdwara
The magnificent Gurdwara Janam Asthan stands on the exact site where Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born. The main building was constructed during the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the early 19ᵗʰ century, showcasing a fine blend of Mughal and Sikh architectural styles.
The sanctum, built over the room believed to be Nanak’s birthplace, houses the Guru Granth Sahib, placed on a beautifully adorned platform. The inner walls feature intricate frescoes and floral motifs, adding to the shrine’s spiritual charm.
A grand dome, visible from afar, symbolizes the universality of Guru Nanak’s teachings. Surrounding the main Gurdwara are sarais (inns) and facilities that accommodate pilgrims who visit from around the world.
Centre of Global Pilgrimage
Every year, especially during Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s birth anniversary (Gurpurab), thousands of devotees from India and across the world gather at Nankana Sahib to pay homage. The Gurpurab celebrations are marked by Kirtan (devotional singing), Langar (community kitchen), and Akhand Path (continuous recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib), embodying the principles of equality and collective devotion.
Despite being across the border, Nankana Sahib continues to unite people of different faiths through the Guru’s timeless message of peace, compassion, and oneness of humanity.
A Living Symbol of Faith and Unity
Gurdwara Janam Asthan stands not merely as a monument of faith but as a living testament to Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s vision of a just and harmonious world. It remains a beacon of light, guiding humanity toward universal brotherhood, truth, and spiritual enlightenment.
A Philatelic Homage
In recognition of its profound spiritual significance, India Post issued a commemorative postage stamp on Gurdwara Janam Asthan, Nankana Sahib, as part of the series celebrating the 550ᵗʰ Birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The stamp beautifully captures the majestic structure of the shrine, symbolizing eternal reverence for the Guru’s birthplace and his everlasting message of “Ik Onkar” — There is but One God.
First Day Cover
