- Cultural Connect: India Post turns stamps into storytellers of heritage and faith
- Global Footprint: 20+ countries echo Ramayana themes through philately
- Sacred Detailing: Ram Janmabhoomi series blends spirituality with artistic excellence
- Youth Link: Stamps emerge as a bridge to connect younger generations with roots
- Living Legacy: From Ayodhya to the world, Ramayana travels through every letter
NE BUSINESS BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, MAR 28
In an inspiring blend of culture, devotion, and communication, postage stamps are emerging as powerful carriers of India’s civilisational legacy, narrating the timeless saga of the Ramayana across borders.
Highlighting this unique initiative on the occasion of Ram Navami, Postmaster General of North Gujarat Region, Ahmedabad, Krishna Kumar Yadav, said that the glory of Lord Shri Ram is being disseminated not just across India but globally through postage stamps.
“Ram Rajya is reflected even on postage stamps,” he remarked, adding that India Post has consistently released stamps to connect people with their heritage and culture, especially for the younger generation. These stamps, when used on letters, travel across nations, spreading the story and legacy of the Ramayana worldwide.
He noted, “Along with India, more than 20 countries of the world have released stamps on characters and themes related to Ramayana.”
Recalling a landmark moment, he said that ahead of the consecration of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya, Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a set of six commemorative postage stamps on ‘Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple’ on January 18, 2024. These stamps featured Lord Ganesha, Lord Hanuman, Jatayu, Kevatraj, Mata Shabari, along with the temple itself.
Adding a divine touch, the stamps were infused with chandan fragrance, gold foil, and elements of sacred soil and water from Ayodhya. Their design reflects the Panch Mahabhootas, incorporating motifs such as the Ram Mandir, the chaupai ‘Mangal Bhavan Amangal Hari’, the Sun, Sarayu River, and temple sculptures, he explained. These are available at the Philatelic Bureau of Ahmedabad GPO.
Going further back, he recalled that on September 22, 2017, a set of 11 commemorative stamps depicting key Ramayana episodes was released at Tulsi Manas Temple, Varanasi by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These vividly portray iconic moments such as Sita Swayamvar, Ram’s exile, Bharat Milap, Jatayu’s sacrifice, Shabari’s devotion, Ram Setu construction, and the victory over Ravana, among others.
“Looking at these stamps, one feels as if the entire Ram Rajya has appeared on the postage stamps,” Shri Yadav observed.
He also highlighted the customised stamp released on August 5, 2020, marking the Bhoomi Pujan of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya—an effort to immortalise a historic milestone.
An officer of the Indian Postal Service and a noted author, Yadav underlined the global cultural footprint of the Ramayana, noting its presence in countries such as Sri Lanka, Nepal, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, Japan, China, Vietnam, Suriname, Cambodia, and Myanmar—many of which have issued stamps celebrating Lord Shri Ram and related narratives.
Describing stamps as “little ambassadors,” he said they travel across continents as cultural messengers, showcasing India’s civilisation, traditions, and spiritual depth.
“Stamp issued in honor of Lord Shri Ram serves as an invaluable treasure for philatelists worldwide,” he emphasised, adding that these miniature works of art are helping tourists, researchers, and enthusiasts gain deeper insights into the Ramayana and its characters.
He concluded by stressing the need to introduce younger generations to the stories behind stamps, noting that each stamp carries a narrative that strengthens their connection with India’s rich heritage.
