Hafiz Shirazi (14th-century Iranian Poet)
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | August 16, 2004 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 15 |
| Perforation | comb 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 2038 Stamp Number IN 2070b Yvert et Tellier IN 1803 Stanley Gibbons IN 2216b WADP Numbering System - WNS IN024.04 |
| Themes | Authors | Famous people | Joint Issues | Literary People (Poets and Writers) | Literature | Men |
Introduction
Hafiz, also known as Shamsuddin Muhammad of Shiraz, is one of the most celebrated poets of Persian literature. Revered for his mystical and philosophical poetry, Hafiz remains a luminous figure in the literary and spiritual heritage of Iran. To commemorate the cultural and philosophical ties between India and Iran, India Post issued a set of joint commemorative postage stamps featuring Hafiz and Kabir.
India–Iran Cultural Relations
India and Iran share centuries of cultural and civilisational connections, influencing each other in fields such as literature, art, architecture, and language. In modern times, this relationship has been strengthened through regular diplomatic exchanges and cooperation.
Indian Prime Ministers P. V. Narasimha Rao and Atal Bihari Vajpayee visited Iran in 1993 and 2001 respectively. Later, Seyyed Mohammad Khatami visited India in 2003 and was honoured as the Chief Guest at the Republic Day Parade.
During this visit, the New Delhi Declaration was signed, expressing the vision of a strategic partnership aimed at regional stability, prosperity, and cooperation.
Life and Literary Contribution
Hafiz Shirazi was a prominent 14th-century Persian poet whose poetic legacy includes approximately four to five thousand verses, comprising nearly 500 ghazals, along with elegies, couplets, and inscriptions. His poetry reflects deep philosophical thought and spiritual insight.
His most famous work, the Divan of Hafez, holds a place of great respect in Iranian homes and literary tradition. The work is widely admired for its lyrical beauty, symbolism, and profound spiritual themes.
Poetic Style and Themes
Hafiz refined the ghazal, a lyrical poetic form consisting of several couplets connected through symbolism and emotion rather than strict narrative logic. His poetry draws inspiration from the teachings and imagery of the Quran, blending spiritual reflection with artistic elegance.
The themes explored in Hafiz’s poetry include:
- Divine and human love
- Fate and fortune
- The beauty and mystery of creation
- Human emotions and life experiences
- The spiritual quest for union with God
His language is admired for being rich and colourful yet simple and precise, conveying deep philosophical ideas with grace and emotional intensity.
Legacy
Hafiz’s poetry expresses love for humanity, criticism of hypocrisy, and the mystic’s search for spiritual truth. His verses continue to inspire readers across cultures and generations.
He was laid to rest in his hometown of Shiraz, where his tomb, known as Tomb of Hafez, remains a popular place of pilgrimage for admirers and tourists.
Commemorative Postage Stamp
To celebrate the shared cultural heritage between India and Iran, India Post issued a commemorative postage stamp on Hafiz Shirazi as part of the India–Iran Joint Issue. The stamp honours Hafiz alongside Kabir, symbolising the timeless influence of these two great poets, philosophers, and mystics.
First Day Cover
