Mahatma Gandhi, 150th Birth Anniversary

Introduction

Since 2015, the Department of Posts has been organizing national-level stamp design and photography competitions on diverse themes to promote creativity and philatelic awareness across India. Based on the entries received, stamps and miniature sheets are designed and released, with selected participants receiving cash awards in recognition of their artistic contribution.

To commemorate the 150ᵗʰ Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, a nationwide Stamp Design Competition was conducted on the theme “Ahimsa Parmo Dharma” — a phrase that profoundly reflects Gandhiji’s life philosophy of non-violence. The competition received an overwhelming response, and the Department extends heartfelt appreciation to all participants for their enthusiastic contribution to its success.

The Competition and Its Winners

Entries were invited in two age categories:

• Up to 18 years, and
• Above 18 years

On the basis of the selected entries, Philatelic items — Stamps and a Miniature Sheet — have been designed.

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 timeless principle of “Ahimsa Parmo Dharma” — meaning Non-Violence is the Supreme Duty — was the guiding light of Mahatma Gandhi’s life and actions. Gandhiji’s philosophy of Ahimsa (non-violence) and Satyagraha (truthful resistance) redefined the path of India’s freedom movement.

At a time when India was under oppressive colonial rule, Gandhiji’s methods of peaceful protest stood in stark contrast to revolutionary ideologies. He believed that Ahimsa was the most powerful weapon — one that could transform hearts, awaken conscience, and defeat injustice without shedding a drop of blood.

Meaning and Modern Relevance

At its core, Ahimsa means refraining from causing harm to any living being — physically, mentally, or emotionally. In contrast, Himsa represents the use of violence to achieve one’s goals.

In today’s fast-paced and competitive world, Gandhiji’s message remains deeply relevant. Acts of violence, hatred, and war continue to destroy the harmony of human existence. Ahimsa, as a way of life, encourages compassion, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence — the true essence of humanity.

Gandhiji’s Path of Peaceful Protest

Throughout India’s struggle for independence, Gandhiji demonstrated the power of non-violence through landmark movements such as:

• Champaran Satyagraha: Advocating for the rights of exploited peasants.
• Dandi March (1930): A symbolic act of defiance against the unjust salt tax, where Gandhiji and 78 followers marched peacefully to the sea to make salt.
• Non-Cooperation Movement: Encouraging Indians to boycott British institutions, goods, and attire, promoting the use of Khadi — hand-spun, indigenous fabric symbolizing self-reliance.

Each of these movements proved that moral courage and truth could challenge even the mightiest empire without violence.

The Enduring Message

Mahatma Gandhi believed that non-violence is the greatest force of mankind, capable of transforming even hatred into compassion. His ideals inspired countless individuals across the world, including Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and many other champions of peace and justice.

Gandhiji remains immortal as the Apostle of Peace, whose message of Ahimsa Parmo Dharma continues to guide humanity toward harmony and righteousness.

Philatelic Tribute

The Department of Posts proudly releases this set of Commemorative Postage Stamps and Miniature Sheet on the theme Ahimsa Parmo Dharma, celebrating the universal philosophy of peace taught by Mahatma Gandhi.

This philatelic issue serves as a humble tribute to the power of non-violence — a force that transcends generations and continues to illuminate the world.