Gwalior
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Forts of India |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | August 3, 1984 |
| Denomination | 50 p |
| Quantity | 1,500,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13¼ x 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 998 Stamp Number IN 1065 Yvert et Tellier IN 813 Stanley Gibbons IN 1131 |
| Themes | Fortresses / Strongholds |
Gwalior Fort
Historical Background
Gwalior Fort, a majestic citadel steeped in history and cultural significance, stands as a testament to the valor and architectural prowess of its builders and rulers.
- Founding and Early History:
- Founder: Gwalior Fort was founded by a Rajput chieftain named Suraj Sen in gratitude to Gwalipa, an ascetic who cured him of leprosy.
- 6th – 12th Century AD: The fort changed hands several times, from the Gurjar Pratihars to the Kachchhapaghatas of Kannauj.
- Muslim Rule: It came under the control of the Muslim kings of Delhi until 1438, during Timur’s invasion of India, when Beersingh Deo, a Tomar Rajput, took control.
- Under the Tomars and Mughals:
- Raja Mansingh: The greatest of the Tomars, Raja Mansingh, contributed significantly to the fort’s cultural landscape by building Mansingh Palace, Gujari Mahal, and a renowned school of music where Tansen, one of India’s greatest musicians, studied.
- Later Periods: After Raja Mansingh’s death in 1517 AD, Gwalior Fort passed into the hands of Ibrahim Lodhi and subsequently to Babar as the Mughal Empire’s influence waned.
- Architectural Features:
- Location: Situated atop a hill approximately 300 feet above the plains, Gwalior Fort spans 1.75 miles in length and varies in breadth from 600 to 2200 feet.
- Enclosing Wall: The fort is protected by a 30-foot-high enclosing wall.
- Key Attractions: Within its gates, Gwalior Fort boasts several architectural marvels:
- Gigantic Jain sculptures carved along the rock face.
- Man Mandir, a palace known for its architectural splendor.
- Gujari Mahal, a palace dedicated to Raja Mansingh’s consort, which now houses an archaeological museum.
- Sas Bahu Temple, noted for its intricate carvings and historical significance.
- Teli-ka-Mandir, a Hindu temple with a blend of Dravidian, Nagara, and Indo-Aryan architectural styles.
Cultural Significance
Gwalior Fort not only serves as a historical fortress but also as a repository of cultural heritage, blending Rajput, Mughal, and Maratha influences. Its architectural beauty and historical importance make it a cherished monument in Indian history.
Commemoration
The Indian Posts & Telegraphs Department proudly honors the rich history and architectural grandeur of Gwalior Fort with a set of four commemorative stamps. These stamps celebrate its role as a symbol of courage, cultural heritage, and architectural brilliance that defines India’s fortification legacy.
Gwalior Fort’s rich history, cultural diversity, and architectural splendor are beautifully captured in the commemorative stamps issued by the Indian Posts & Telegraphs Department. These stamps pay homage to the fort’s enduring legacy as a bastion of strength and cultural heritage in India’s historical tapestry.