Samarth Ramdas

India’s 1988 Samarth Ramdas stamp (60 paise, issued 1 May) is a commemorative tribute to the 17th‑century Maharashtra saint, born in 1608 at Jamb, who blended deep devotion with active social and spiritual reform. The serene illustration shows him in ascetic attire, holding prayer beads and a T‑shaped staff, symbolising a life of discipline and service; by placing his image on everyday postage, India Post preserved his legacy as a guiding force in Indian religious and cultural life for future generations.

Technical data Notes Condition

Date of issue May 1, 1988

Denomination 60 p

Quantity printed 1000000

Printer Security Printing Press, Nashik

Perforation comb 13

Watermark No Watermark

Colours Deep green

Catalogue codes Michel IN 1155 Stamp Number IN 1217 Yvert et Tellier IN 9688 Stanley Gibbons IN 1308

Themes Commemoration, Famous people, Men, Religion, Saints

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About this stamp

Samarth Ramdas, born in 1608 in Jamb, Maharashtra, played a pivotal role in shaping the spiritual and political landscape of the region during his lifetime. Here’s a structured presentation on his life and contributions:

Commemorative Stamp Set on Samarth Ramdas

Design Elements:

Stamps: Featuring portraits of Samarth Ramdas and Shivaji Maharaj.
Background: Illustrations depicting Maruti Temples and Ramdasi Maths.
Inscriptions: Quotes from ‘Dasbodh’ and other works of Samarth Ramdas.
Decorative Elements: Traditional Marathi motifs and symbols representing spirituality and resilience.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

Spiritual Advisor: Guided Shivaji Maharaj spiritually, influencing his approach to governance and warfare.
Literary Contributions: ‘Dasbodh’ expounded on spirituality, self-realization, and societal responsibilities, inspiring generations of Marathas.
Philosophical Legacy: Advocated for Maharashtra Dharma, emphasizing disciplined life and resistance against oppression.
Community Centers: Established Maruti Temples and Ramdasi Maths as centers for worship and philosophical discourse.

Usage:

Philatelic Collectors: Collectors interested in Indian spiritual and historical figures would find these stamps valuable.
Educational Tools: Used in schools and cultural institutions to teach about Samarth Ramdas’s teachings and influence on Maratha society.
Cultural Promotion: Enhances awareness of Maharashtra’s spiritual heritage and its impact on Indian history.

Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set:

Preservation: Preserves the cultural and spiritual legacy of Samarth Ramdas, ensuring it reaches a wider audience.
Inspiration: Inspires people to uphold values of self-discipline, community service, and spiritual growth.
Historical Remembrance: Commemorates Samarth Ramdas’s role in shaping the ethos of Maharashtra and influencing Shivaji Maharaj.

Example of the Stamp Design:

Denomination: INR 15 (example)
Design: Portrait of Samarth Ramdas in meditation, alongside an image of Shivaji Maharaj.
Background: Earthy tones symbolizing Maharashtra’s landscape, with motifs of Maruti Temples and Ramdasi Maths.
Text: “Samarth Ramdas Commemorative Stamp”, “1608-1682, Spiritual Advisor and Philosopher”

Significance:

Celebrates the life and teachings of Samarth Ramdas, who dedicated his life to spiritual enlightenment, societal reform, and the empowerment of the common people in Maharashtra.
Highlights his enduring influence on spiritual and political thought, making him a revered figure in Indian history and culture.

This commemorative stamp set would serve as a tribute to Samarth Ramdas’s profound impact on Marathi culture, spirituality, and the socio-political ethos of his time.