Students in Meditation, Astachai

Students in Meditation, Astachai

Technical Data

Stamp Set Centenary of Scindra School, Gwalior
Date of Issue October 20, 1997
Denomination Rs. 5
Quantity 700,000
Perforation comb 14
Printer Security Printing Press, Nashik
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Multicolor
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 1581

Stamp Number IN 1638

Yvert et Tellier IN 1352

Stanley Gibbons IN 1745

Themes

Commemorative Stamp Set

Design Elements:

  • The stamp design beautifully showcases the students in meditation at Astachal, a significant tradition at The Scindia School.
  • The Gwalior Fort is prominently featured in the background, symbolizing the historical importance of the location.
  • An inset of Maharaja Madhavrao Scindia, the school’s founder, honors his legacy.
  • The statue of Mahatma Gandhi is central to the design, representing the values of simplicity, truth, and non-violence that are instilled in the students during their daily meditation.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

  • The Astachal tradition at The Scindia School is a unique practice where students gather every evening to meditate. This tradition connects them with India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
  • The Gwalior Fort, where the school is located, is a historic site that adds to the stamp’s cultural value.
  • The school’s establishment by Maharaja Madhavrao Scindia in 1897 and its evolution into a premier educational institution underscore its historical significance.

Usage:

  • This commemorative stamp set can be used to highlight the importance of education, tradition, and cultural heritage in India.
  • It serves as a tribute to the contributions of The Scindia School in shaping leaders and citizens imbued with the values of discipline, focus, and mindfulness.

Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set:

  • The stamp set celebrates the centenary of The Scindia School, marking its contributions to education and society over the last century.
  • It emphasizes the importance of preserving cultural traditions like Astachal in modern educational practices.
  • The set also serves as a reminder of the role of educational institutions in fostering holistic development in students.

Example of the Stamp Design:

  • The commemorative stamp design could include a se-tenant (connected pair) format, depicting students in meditation at Astachal, with the Gwalior Fort in the background and the inset of Maharaja Madhavrao Scindia.
  • The design could also feature the statue of Mahatma Gandhi, symbolizing the values and inspiration drawn from this practice.

Significance:

  • The stamp set is a testament to the enduring values of education, tradition, and cultural heritage that The Scindia School has upheld for over a century.
  • It highlights the school’s role in contributing to the development of well-rounded individuals who are not only academically proficient but also deeply rooted in their cultural heritage.