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 3588 Stamp Number IN 3156 Yvert et Tellier IN 3266 Stanley Gibbons IN 3665 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Famous people | Freedom Fighters | Human Rights | Independency Activists | Lawyers-Advocates | Revolutionaries | Teachers |
Introduction
Since 2015, the Department of Posts has been organizing national-level stamp design and photography competitions on various themes to encourage public participation in philately. Based on the entries received, postage stamps are designed and released, and the selected participants are honoured with cash awards.
This year, a nationwide Stamp Design Competition was held on the theme “Ahimsa Parmo Dharma”, chosen to commemorate the 150ᵗʰ Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of our Nation. The theme reflects Gandhiji’s lifelong philosophy of non-violence and peace. The competition received an overwhelming response from across the country, and the Department expresses its gratitude to all participants who made it a grand success.
The Competition and Its Winners
Entries were invited in two categories:
- Category I: Up to 18 years of age
- Category II: Above 18 years of age
On the basis of the selected entries, postage stamps and a miniature sheet have been designed to highlight the theme.
Winners (Up to 18 Years)
- First Three: Ms. Prachi, Master Vikash, Master Rudley Roy
- Consolation Prizes: 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 Prizes: Ms. Swarda Deshmukh, Sh. Suraj Kumar Palo, Sh. Prashant A. Maru, Sh. Suresh Kumar Maharana, Sh. Amit Singh Kushwaha
Philosophy of Ahimsa
The principle “Ahimsa Parmo Dharma”, meaning Non-Violence is the Supreme Virtue, forms the cornerstone of Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of life. Gandhiji believed that true strength lies in peace, compassion, and the refusal to inflict harm on others.
During India’s freedom struggle, Gandhiji championed Ahimsa (Non-Violence) as a way of life and a means of resistance. While many freedom fighters believed in the revolutionary path, Gandhiji advocated for Satyagraha — a peaceful and truthful method of protest against injustice and oppression. He believed that non-violence was not a sign of weakness, but the highest form of courage.
Ahimsa vs. Himsa
Ahimsa calls for abstaining from causing harm, while Himsa (violence) seeks achievement through aggression and destruction. In today’s fast-paced and competitive world, Gandhiji’s message reminds us that success should never come at the cost of another’s well-being.
Acts of violence, terrorism, and war continue to erode humanity and peace. Gandhiji’s philosophy teaches that non-violence preserves the beauty of life and upholds the dignity of all beings, promoting harmony over hatred.
Gandhiji’s Non-Violent Movements
Mahatma Gandhi’s peaceful methods of protest were instrumental in awakening national consciousness during India’s independence struggle.
- Champaran Satyagraha: Fought for the rights of oppressed peasants.
- Dandi March (1930): A peaceful protest against the salt tax, symbolizing resistance against unjust colonial laws.
- Non-Cooperation Movement: Urged Indians to boycott British institutions, goods, and services. Citizens embraced Khadi, the hand-spun fabric, as a symbol of self-reliance and national unity.
These movements, rooted in non-violence, proved that moral strength can challenge even the most powerful empires.
Relevance of Ahimsa Today
In a world torn by division, competition, and conflict, the message of Ahimsa Parmo Dharma remains timeless. Gandhiji’s philosophy reminds humanity that peaceful coexistence is the foundation of true progress. Non-violence, compassion, and empathy are values that must guide our actions in every sphere of life.
Legacy of the Apostle of Peace
Mahatma Gandhi continues to inspire millions across the globe. His principles of truth, non-violence, and moral strength have influenced several civil rights and independence movements worldwide — from Martin Luther King Jr.’s struggle in America to Nelson Mandela’s fight against apartheid.
Truly, Gandhiji stands as the Apostle of Peace, whose life and message reaffirm that Ahimsa is the mightiest weapon known to mankind.
Philatelic Tribute
The Department of Posts proudly releases this set of Commemorative Postage Stamps and Miniature Sheet on the theme Ahimsa Parmo Dharma. This issue is a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s eternal message of peace and humanity — a message that continues to illuminate the path toward a more compassionate world.