Gurudwara Ber Sahib Sultanpur Lodhi
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | 550th Anniversary of Birth of Guru Nanak |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | November 9, 2019 |
| Denomination | Rs. 15 |
| 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 3613 Stamp Number IN 3177 Yvert et Tellier IN 3290 Stanley Gibbons IN 3690 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Religion | Temples |
A Sacred Site of Enlightenment
Gurudwara Ber Sahib, located in Sultanpur Lodhi on the banks of the serene rivulet Kali Bein, is one of the most revered Sikh shrines. It marks the place where Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, attained enlightenment and delivered the divine message of “Ik Onkar” — meaning “There is One God.”
The Sacred Ber Tree and the Divine Revelation
Guru Nanak Dev Ji lived in Sultanpur Lodhi for over 14 years, working as the storekeeper for the Nawab Daulat Khan. Each morning, he would bathe in the Kali Bein river and sit under a Ber (Zizyphus) tree to meditate deeply. One day, after entering the waters of the Bein, Guru Nanak disappeared for three days and returned with a divine revelation that transformed human spiritual thought forever.
This sacred tree still stands beside the Gurdwara, and the shrine was named “Ber Sahib” in its honor. Devotees believe that meditating here brings peace and spiritual awakening.
Architecture and Sanctity
The current structure of Gurudwara Ber Sahib was commissioned by Maharaja Jagatjit Singh of Kapurthala. Built on a high plinth and entered through a gothic arch, the Gurdwara is an architectural marvel that beautifully combines spiritual grace and historic grandeur. The sanctum is supported by octagonal columns and features intricate stucco floral designs.
Inside, the Guru Granth Sahib is placed on a white marble canopied throne, signifying purity and reverence. The Gurdwara complex also houses several important Sikh memorials, and the surrounding area remains a hub of devotion throughout the year.
Centre of Guru Nanak’s 550ᵗʰ Birth Anniversary Celebrations
Sultanpur Lodhi holds immense significance as the nerve centre of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s 550ᵗʰ Birth Anniversary celebrations. Each November, thousands of pilgrims from across the world gather here to commemorate the Guru’s birth and teachings. The celebrations are marked by devotional singing, prayers, community service (Seva), and Langar, reflecting the true spirit of Sikhism — equality, humility, and service to humanity.
A Living Legacy of Divine Wisdom
Gurudwara Ber Sahib stands as a powerful symbol of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s enlightenment and message of universal brotherhood. The sacred waters of Kali Bein, the ancient Ber tree, and the divine atmosphere continue to inspire millions to walk the path of truth, compassion, and oneness.
A Philatelic Tribute
To honour this spiritually significant site, India Post issued a commemorative postage stamp as part of the set of five stamps celebrating the 550ᵗʰ Birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The stamp beautifully captures the serenity of the shrine and its timeless association with Guru Nanak’s divine revelation, serving as a reminder of the Guru’s eternal message to humanity.
First Day Cover
