Guru Nanak Dev 500th Birth Anniversary
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Birth Centenary |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | November 23, 1969 |
| Denomination | 20 nP |
| Quantity | 3000000 |
| Perforation | 13½ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Slate violet |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 488 Stamp Number IN 504 Yvert et Tellier IN 288 Stanley Gibbons IN 602 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Buildings | religion | Temples | |
Guru Nanak Dev, an extraordinary figure in history, made significant contributions to various aspects of life including art, literature, politics, science, and religion. He preached a message of love and unity to humanity, advocating active participation in the world to attain spiritual enlightenment rather than seeking seclusion. Nanak emphasized the oneness of God and humanity, rejecting distinctions based on caste or untouchability.
Born 500 years ago in Punjab, Guru Nanak displayed saintly qualities from a young age, expressing profound wisdom and spirituality. Despite being married at the age of 14, he remained absorbed in spiritual contemplation, eventually becoming known as Guru Nanak, the World Teacher. He embarked on extensive travels across India and beyond, spreading his message of love, brotherhood, and the realization of God.
Accompanied by his companion Mardana, Guru Nanak journeyed to various places, including islands in the south of India, the Nilgiris Hills, Assam, the trans-Himalayas, Baghdad, Bokhara, the Caucasian mountains, Mecca, Kashmir, and the north-west frontier of India. His teachings challenged rituals, superstitions, and superficial pilgrimages, aiming to uplift humanity’s moral and spiritual consciousness.
Guru Nanak’s appearance in India coincided with a period of division, strife, and foreign attacks, with moral standards at a low point. His inspiring hymns brought hope and encouragement to millions of people, revitalizing their spirits and offering a message of unity and strength in the face of oppression.
Guru Nanak’s revolutionary religious ideas emphasized the personal relationship with God, describing Him as formless yet omnipresent. His teachings continue to resonate, particularly during the 500th birth anniversary celebrations being observed worldwide. The Indian Posts and Telegraphs Department proudly commemorates this occasion by issuing a special stamp featuring Nankana Sahib, honoring the profound legacy of Guru Nanak, a great son of India.