The Tripura Sundari Temple, popularly known as the Tripureswari Temple, is one of the most revered temples in Tripura. Located at Udaipur, the temple is dedicated to Tripura Sundari, a manifestation of the divine feminine power or Mahashakti. Historical Background The temple is believed to have been built in 1501 A.D. by Dhanya Manikya, one […]
The Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple is one of the most sacred temples in Andhra Pradesh. Situated in the picturesque Srisailam on the Nallamalai Hills, near the banks of the Krishna River, the temple is an important centre of Hindu pilgrimage. Religious Importance The temple is dedicated to Shiva in the form of Mallikarjuna. It holds exceptional […]
The Badrinath Temple, also known as the Vishal Badri Temple, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India. Located in a beautiful Himalayan valley in the Garhwal region, the temple is dedicated to Badrinath, a manifestation of Vishnu. Historical Background The temple is believed to have been established by the great philosopher and […]
Every individual is unique, and every child comes into the world carrying a message of hope. Recognising this spirit, India Post issued a commemorative postage stamp to mark the International Conference on Autism hosted by Tamana Association, celebrating what may be called “Our World of Special Children.” Tamana Association The conference was hosted by Tamana […]
Bade Ghulam Ali Khan was an unquestioned genius and one of the greatest vocalists of the twentieth century. His extraordinary talent and powerful voice left an indelible mark on Hindustani classical music, particularly within the renowned Patiala Gharana. Early Life and Training Bade Ghulam Ali Khan received his early musical training within his family. His […]
Vishwanath Kashinath Rajwade was one of the pioneering historians of India. A multifaceted scholar, he made notable contributions not only to history but also to disciplines such as linguistics, literature, geography, oleography and sociology. His research and writings significantly influenced the study and interpretation of Indian history. Early Life and Education Rajwade was born in […]
A Heritage Landmark of Chennai The Museum Theatre is one of the most iconic heritage structures within the premises of the Government Museum Chennai. Renowned for its architectural elegance and historical significance, it stands as a fine example of colonial-era design blended with cultural purpose. Architectural Features The Museum Theatre is distinguished by its unique […]
A Masterpiece of Ancient Art The Amaravati Sculptured Medallion is one of the finest examples of early Indian sculptural excellence, preserved in the Government Museum Chennai. Dating back to around 150 A.D., this remarkable piece reflects the artistic sophistication and cultural richness of ancient India. Origin and Background This sculptured medallion originates from Amaravati, an […]
The 12th-Century Bronze Masterpiece The Natesa Bronze Sculpture is an exquisite example of South India’s rich sculptural tradition, preserved in the Government Museum Chennai. Originating from the Thanjavur region, this 12th-century bronze reflects the artistic brilliance of the Chola period. Artistic Excellence The Natesa sculpture is renowned for its vigour, grace and intricate detailing. The […]
On May 30, 2003, India Post issued a ₹5 commemorative stamp honoring Sant Muktabai, a towering figure of the Bhakti movement and one of Maharashtra’s most revered women poet-saints. Born into a family of spiritual giants, she was the younger sister of Sant Dnyaneshwar, Sant Nivruttinath, and Sant Sopandeo, collectively forming a foundational cornerstone of the Varkari tradition.
The stamp recognizes Muktabai's profound spiritual wisdom, which she manifested at an incredibly young age. Despite facing severe social ostracization and hardship during her childhood, her vision remained rooted in absolute compassion and non-duality. She is celebrated for authoring forty-one Abhangas (devotional poems), with her most famous composition being the "Tati ughada, Jnyanesha" (Open the Door, Dnyaneshwar), a deeply philosophical yet touching plea to her brother to open the door to his hut and face the world with equanimity.
Muktabai's teachings fiercely questioned rigid social hierarchies and preached spiritual equality, making the path of divine love and inner devotion accessible to the common masses. Her dialogues with contemporary saints, particularly the veteran yogi Changdev Maharaj, whom she accepted as her disciple, highlight her immense spiritual authority and intellectual clarity.
This commemorative issue pays tribute to her lasting impact on Maharashtra’s cultural, spiritual, and literary heritage. For philatelists and historians tracking the Bhakti movement, this stamp stands as a symbol of the profound power of feminine spirituality and the enduring legacy of a young saint who helped shape the devotional fabric of western India.