2025-04-18 Fri

The sixth stamp in the Archaeological and Historical Monuments Definitive series, 1949, is of the Mahabodhi Bodhgaya Temple in Bihar. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it houses a tree believed to be a descendant of the Bodhi Tree under which the Lord Buddha gained enlightenment.

It is one of the earliest Buddhist temples built entirely in brick, and it has been standing in India since the late Gupta period. The present temple dates back to the 5th or 6th century CE, whereas the original one was built by Emperor Asoka in the 3rd century BCE.

The temple complex comprises a temple, Vajrasana (diamond throne), Bodhi tree, Lotus Pond, votive stupas and various sacred sites of Buddha's enlightenment.

The stamp was issued twice in different denominations and colours. The first one was bright blue in colour and 3 1/2 Anna face value, issued on 15 Aug 1949. On the other hand, the second stamp with Lake colour and 2 1/2 Anna face value was issued on 30 April 1951.

The first stamp was withdrawn due to changes in the postal rates.