Sardar Market Gate, Jodhpur
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Historical Gates of Indian Forts and Monuments |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | October 19, 2019 |
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 500,000 |
| Perforation | 13¼ x 13¾ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Sh. Brahm Prakash Sh. Pallab Bose |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 3598A Stamp Number IN 3166 Yvert et Tellier IN 3276 Stanley Gibbons IN 3678 |
| Themes | Fortresses / Strongholds | Gates |
A Majestic Landmark of the Blue City
The Sardar Market Gate, also known as the Ghanta Ghar Gate, stands proudly in the heart of Jodhpur, Rajasthan, serving as the grand entrance to the bustling Sardar Market near the famous Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar). Built during the reign of Maharaja Sardar Singh (1898–1911), the gate is named in his honor and continues to be a symbol of Jodhpur’s royal heritage and vibrant trade culture.
Architectural Elegance and Design
Constructed in red sandstone, the Sardar Market Gate beautifully reflects Rajasthani craftsmanship with its arched doorway, ornamental carvings, and traditional motifs. The design harmoniously blends aesthetic grace and structural strength, showcasing the architectural brilliance of the late 19th century.
The gate stands as a striking focal point of Sardar Market, one of the oldest and busiest bazaars in Jodhpur, which radiates outward in a maze of narrow streets filled with colorful shops selling textiles, spices, handicrafts, and silver jewelry — capturing the essence of Rajasthan’s cultural vibrancy.
Cultural and Historical Significance
The Sardar Market Gate not only functioned as a marketplace entrance but also served as a center of community and commercial life for locals and travelers alike. It connected the Mehrangarh Fort area with the thriving city markets, making it an important link between royalty and the common populace.
Even today, the gate stands as a living heritage site, representing Jodhpur’s enduring spirit of trade, craftsmanship, and hospitality. As one passes through it, the scene unfolds into a lively display of colors, aromas, and sounds, embodying the traditional charm of Rajasthan’s desert culture.
Preservation and Modern Identity
The Sardar Market Gate remains one of the most photographed landmarks in Jodhpur, attracting visitors from across the world. It continues to be well-preserved as part of the old city’s architectural legacy and is protected under heritage conservation efforts.
Framed by the towering Ghanta Ghar in the background, the gate serves as a gateway to Jodhpur’s living history, where the old seamlessly meets the new — a vibrant mix of culture, commerce, and community.
Commemorative Postage Stamp
The Department of Posts issued a commemorative postage stamp on the Sardar Market Gate, Jodhpur, under the series on Historical Gates of Indian Forts and Monuments.
This stamp celebrates the architectural splendor and cultural vitality of Jodhpur, immortalizing the Sardar Market Gate as a timeless emblem of the city’s royal legacy and traditional artistry a majestic gateway to the soul of Rajasthan.