2025-04-19 Sat

The next stamp in the Archaeological and Historical Monuments Definitive series from 1949 features the beautiful Sanchi Stupa Gate in Madhya Pradesh. This incredible site, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a fascinating Buddhist complex commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE! Sanchi was the birthplace of Devi, wife of Emperor Ashoka, which makes it his in- law’s place (sasural). The Stupa is notably adorned with four intricately carved gateways, or toranas. Each gate tells captivating stories from the life of Lord Buddha, the War of the Relics, and the remarkable efforts of Emperor Ashoka to share the teachings of Buddhism. One can also experience the different styles of Brahmi ranging from Ashokan Brahmi to Gupta Brahmi, besides Sankha script, Devanagri script, etc. This particular stamp of Sanchi Stupa's Eastern Gate, with a face value of 3 Annas, was utilized as a foreign acknowledgment of the delivery fee and also played a role in airmail services directed towards Persian Gulf countries. This historical artifact holds considerable cultural and postal significance.