Mahatma Gandhi, 150th Birth Anniversary
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | October 2, 2019 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 25 |
| Quantity | 500,000 |
| Perforation | 13 x 13 |
| Printer | India Security Press, Nashik |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Ms. Nenu Gupta Ms. Shaili Dhagat |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 3589 Stamp Number IN 3157 Yvert et Tellier IN 3267 Stanley Gibbons IN 3666 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Famous people | Freedom Fighters | Human Rights | Independency Activists | Lawyers-Advocates | Revolutionaries | Teachers |
Introduction
The Department of Posts has been organizing national-level stamp design and photography competitions on diverse themes since 2015. Based on entries received from participants across the country, postage stamps are designed and released, and the selected participants are felicitated with cash awards.
Continuing this tradition, a nationwide Stamp Design Competition was conducted on the theme “Ahimsa Parmo Dharma”, in consonance with the 150ᵗʰ Birth Anniversary celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of our Nation. The competition received an overwhelming response, and the Department expresses its heartfelt appreciation to all participants who contributed to its success.
The Competition
Entries were invited in two categories:
- Category I: Up to 18 years
- Category II: Above 18 years
Based on the selected entries, postage stamps and a miniature sheet have been designed to commemorate the theme.
Winners (Up to 18 Years)
- First Three: Ms. Prachi, Master Vikash, Master Rudley Roy
- Consolation Winners: Master Tushar, Master Rajtan Dasgupta, Master Vaibhav Maurya, Master Hemant Kumar, Master Ritik Kumar
Winners (Above 18 Years)
- First Three: Sh. Purushottam J. Pawar, Sh. Ravindra Somanath, Sh. P. Mutharas
- Consolation Winners: Ms. Swarda Deshmukh, Sh. Suraj Kumar Palo, Sh. Prashant A. Maru, Sh. Suresh Kumar Maharana, Sh. Amit Singh Kushwaha
Philosophy of Ahimsa
The principle of “Ahimsa Parmo Dharma”, meaning Non-Violence is the Supreme Virtue, embodies the philosophy of life followed by Mahatma Gandhi. His teachings and principles continue to serve as a way of life for countless people across the world.
During India’s struggle for freedom, Gandhiji championed the philosophy of Non-Violence (Ahimsa) through Satyagraha, a peaceful yet powerful form of protest against oppression and injustice. At a time when many revolutionaries believed in violent resistance, Gandhiji stood firm in his conviction that truth and non-violence were the greatest weapons against tyranny.
Gandhiji’s Path of Peaceful Resistance
Under British rule, India suffered immense exploitation — of land, labour, and resources. In response, Gandhiji led several non-violent movements that changed the course of India’s independence struggle:
- Champaran Satyagraha: Fought for the cause of peasants oppressed by landlords.
- Dandi March (1930): A peaceful protest against the salt tax, symbolizing the fight against unjust colonial laws.
- Non-Cooperation Movement: Urged Indians to boycott British institutions, goods, and services. Citizens, students, and workers withdrew from British establishments and adopted Khadi, symbolizing self-reliance and national pride.
These movements demonstrated that non-violence is not a sign of weakness, but of supreme strength. Gandhiji’s peaceful resistance shook the very foundations of British authority and inspired millions to unite for freedom.
Ahimsa in Contemporary Times
In today’s fast-paced and competitive world, Gandhiji’s message of Ahimsa remains more relevant than ever. Acts of violence — whether in personal ambition or global conflicts — only breed hatred and destruction. Ahimsa teaches that true strength lies in compassion, restraint, and the will to coexist peacefully.
Terrorism, war, and intolerance continue to threaten humanity, but Gandhiji’s life stands as a reminder that peace can triumph over aggression, and love can overcome fear.
Legacy of the Apostle of Peace
Mahatma Gandhi, the Apostle of Peace and Non-Violence, proved that moral courage could defeat even the mightiest empire. His philosophy has inspired numerous civil rights and independence movements across the world — from Martin Luther King Jr. in the United States to Nelson Mandela in South Africa.
Gandhiji’s enduring message — “Ahimsa Parmo Dharma” — continues to guide generations towards truth, peace, and humanity.
Philatelic Tribute
The Department of Posts proudly releases this set of Commemorative Postage Stamps and a Miniature Sheet on the theme Ahimsa Parmo Dharma as a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s timeless values.
This issue celebrates his life, philosophy, and enduring message of peace, reaffirming that non-violence remains the highest form of strength in the pursuit of truth and justice.