EPIC OF RAMAYANA : PRIDE OF HINDUISM
IntroductionThe place where Lord Ram was born. That place is in Shri Ramlala Temple, Ayodhya. The idol of Ramlala, the child form of Sri Ram installed in Ayodhya is being worshipped. In this context, a special cover has been issued from Allahabad as on 13th November 2020.
HISTORY OF RAM NAVAMI
Birth Day of Lord Ram - Ram Navami is a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Rama to King Dasharatha of Ayodhya. It is celebrated on the ninth day of Chaitra month (the first month in the Hindu lunar calendar). Lord Rama is believed to be the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The Hindus celebrate this day by going to temples, observing fasts and seeking Lord Rama's blessings.
Nepal issued stamps on birth of Lord Rama as on 18th April 1967.
A set of two stamps featuring Lord Rama, the central figure of the Hindu epic Ramayana, was issued at Balipex 2024.
A special cover was issued from Prayagraj on April 16, 2024, to commemorate Ram Navami. This event celebrates the birth of Lord Rama, a central figure in Hindu mythology. The cover likely features imagery related to Ramayana, his life, and his significance in Indian culture.
Mata Kaushalya Temple
Kaushalya was senior wife of Dasharatha and mother of Lord Ram. Mata Kaushalya Mandir is the only temple in the world dedicated to Mata Kaushalya, it is located at Chandkhuri village in Raipur district (Chhattisgarh). Department of Post issued a special cover as on 22nd January 2024.
Lord Rama is a major deity in Hinduism. He is considered to be the seventh and one of the most popular incarnations of Vishnu. In Rama-centered Hindu traditions, he is considered the supreme god. Also known as the Ideal Man "Maryada Purushottam", Rama is the hero of the Hindu epic Ramayana. Lord Rama is not only a deity in Hinduism, but he is also a symbol of religion, duty and living an ideal life. Ram was an ideal king, an ideal husband and an ideal son. He was kind, just and religious. He always worked for the welfare of others. Ram's personality was so ideal that he is worshiped all over the world.
Indonesia Stamps depict on Lord Ram, Date of issue 15th January 1962
Mata Sita, the adopted daughter of King Janaka of Mithila and the ideal wife of Lord Rama, was renowned for her purity, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to her husband. She was abducted by Ravana and taken to Lanka. Rama, with the help of Hanuman and the Vanara army, conquered Lanka and rescued Sita. However, even after returning to Ayodhya, Sita faced suspicion, leading her to take the decision to merge with Mother Earth.
Indonesia Stamps depict on Mata Sita, Date of issue 15th January 1962
This stamps, issued by Indonesia in 1962, is a testament to the enduring popularity and cultural significance of the Ramayana in Southeast Asia. It commemorates Lord Rama's victory in the Swayamvara and his subsequent marriage to Sita. The stamps depicts a powerful and divine Rama effortlessly lifting Shiva's bow, a feat that none of the other princes and kings could accomplish. This iconic scene from the Ramayana highlights Rama's extraordinary strength, skill, and divine nature.
The Swayamvara was a unique event where Sita, the princess of Mithila, would choose her husband based on a specific challenge. Shiva's bow was considered impossible to lift, let alone string and break. Rama's effortless accomplishment of this task not only won him Sita's hand but also solidified his status as a divine hero. This event is a symbolic representation of the triumph of virtue, strength, and divine will.
The Indonesian stamp's depiction of this scene captures the essence of the Ramayana and its enduring message of good versus evil. It serves as a reminder of the timeless appeal of the epic and its continued influence on cultures around the world.
Sita-Ram Marriage Place
According to Valmiki Ramayana, Sita was born in Janakpur. Sita-Ram Vivah Mandap is located in Janakpur (Nepal) where Lord Rama was married.
Nepal stamps, Date of issue 11th December 1991
Sita Amman temple is the only Hindu Temple which dedicated to Princess Sita in Sri Lanka. This is one of the important Ramayana related places of Sri Lanka. Sita Amman Temple is located in Nuwara Eliya. Sita Eliya area (10 Min drive from Nuwara Eliya Town) close to Ashoka Vatika (This Ashoka Vatika has converted as a Hakgala Botanic Gardens Sri Lank). According to the epic of Ramayana it is the believed that Hanuman Ji burnt this area before he left Sri Lanka. The foot prints of Lord Hanuman’s can be seen even today close to the stream close to the Sita Amman Temple.
Sri Lanka Post issued a Special Cover as on 23rd April 2023
The Ramayana is one of the epics in Asian folklore. Ramayana has been written in different ways in different languages. The Ramayana in Laos is described as the past life of a Buddhist. Theatrical staging of Ramayana is very popular in Laos and is performed as a form of entertainment as well as moral and spiritual guidance.
In 1955, Laos released a set of 6 stamps on Ramayana depicting Lord Ram, Sita and Hanuman.
Lord Rama (Lao: Phra Lam)
Lord Rama and his wife Sita (Lao: Phra Lam and Nang Sida)
Hanuman, the divine vanara, is a revered figure in Hindu mythology, known for his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama. Born to Anjana and the wind god Vayu, Hanuman possessed extraordinary strength, intelligence, and courage. He played a pivotal role in Ramayana, aiding Rama in his quest to rescue Sita from the clutches of Ravana. Hanuman's iconic feats include leaping across the vast ocean to Lanka, burning the city, and finding Sita. His immense devotion, boundless energy, and unwavering faith in Rama make him a symbol of strength, loyalty, and perseverance.
Laos Stamps depicts on Hanuman
Indonesia Stamps depicts on Hanuman
Ravana : King of the demons (Lao Thtsakan)
Jatayu was a divine bird in the Hindu epic Ramayana. He was the son of Aruna and Syeni and the nephew of Garuda. Jatayu was also known as the King of Griffins. When Ravana was abducting Sita, Jatayu tried to stop him. However, Ravana overpowered Jatayu and clipped his wings. The injured Jatayu informed Rama and Lakshmana about Ravana and then succumbed to his injuries. Rama performed the last rites for Jatayu. Jatayu's bravery and selfless nature make him an ideal being.
Indonesia Stamps depict on Jatayu, Date of issue 15th January 1962
Ramayana, BALIPEX 2019, Date of issue 14th November 2019
Lord Ram with Bow
About Ram's Bow - This was the most powerful weapon made from the Rishi Dadhichi's bones. The holder of this bow was invincible. Much more powerful than vajra, was given to Lord Vishnu to protect Dharma. Later Lord Rama had this bow during his incarnation. This powerful bow was used to slay the great demon Kumbhkarana and demon King Ravana.
Indonesia Post issued special edition of 4000 Miniature Sheets on occasion of "BALIPHEX 2021", Date of issue 3rd December 2021
Miniature Sheet
Ayodhya Lila
Mithila Lila
Dandaka Lila
Kiskinda Lila
Setubanda Lila
Ramayana, BALIPEX 2023
The Ramayana epic tells that Hanuman and the monkeys had to build bridge across the sea to move to Lanka in order to rescue Nang Sida. The mermaid Nang Matsa received order from her father Thotsakan, the demon, to disturb the building. When the fish started to remove the bridge stones, Hanuman tried to prevent them and fought the mermaid underwater. During the duel she fall in love with him and ordered to stop destroy the bridge.
Laos stamps, Date of issue 5th February 1971
Phra Lak Phra Lam in Lao Epic of Ramayana. Date of issue 26th March 1969
Lakshmana - Son of King Dasharatha and Brother of Lord Ram.
Thailand-Indonesia joint issue in which Ramayana drama has been presented. Date of issue 5th May 2016
Maricha (Kidang Kentjana)
Maricha, a rakshasa (demon) in the Ramayana, was a key player in Ravana's plan to abduct Sita. He transformed into a golden deer to lure Rama away from Sita, allowing Ravana to seize his opportunity. Though initially reluctant, Maricha was forced by Ravana to participate in this deceitful act. His role in the epic highlights the conflict between good and evil and the lengths to which evil will go to achieve its goals.
Indonesia Ramayan Dramatics Performance Stamps, Date of issue 15th January 1962
Indonesia stamps, Date of issue 31st August 1971
The third book of Valmiki's Ramayana, Aranyakanda, describes the deer as follows, Had it not been for the golden deer, the golden kingdom of Lanka would not have burned. According to mythology, this deer was actually a demon, Called Maricha, Maricha was tasked with taking Rama and Lakshmana away from Sita so that Ravana could swoop in and take a helpless Sita a thousand miles away to his kingdom, Lanka. So Maricha took the form of a beautiful golden deer, and grazed near Rama's hermitage so that Sita could see him. Maricha gambled with Rama far away from the hermitage and finally, after a long chase, killed the deer, what else, but a golden arrow dying Maricha shouted, O Sita. Hey Lakshmana. Imitated in Ram's voice. Far away in the ashram, a terrified Sita fell prey to this trick and asked Lakshmana to go in search of Rama. With no one to protect her, Ravana appeared as a beggar and kidnapped her and hence Rama's fight for truth, justice and his beloved wife began.
Thailand stamps, Date of issue 6th October 1996
Laos Stamps depicting on Stage Drama of Ramayana, Date of issue 19th February 1962
Sri Kote Seetha Ramanjaneya temple situated on the banks of Tunga River in Shimoga City in Karnataka state of India. Shimoga has a special significance in the epic Ramayana, as it is believed to be the place where Lord Rama killed Maricha, who was in the guise of a deer. Sita, Ram, Laxman and Hanuman ji are worshiped here. This is the oldest Hanuman temple in the world. Karnataka Postal Circle Issued a Special Cover from Shivamogga as on 8th December 2018
Togo stamps on Ram Lakshman painting 1630-1638 AD, Date of issue 1st January 2013
Model of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi is a Symbolic place of 'Sanatan Sankriti'. Ram Mandir is a Hindu temple that is being built in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India, at the site of Ram Janmabhoomi, according to the Ramayana the birthplace of Rama, a principal deity of Hinduism. The temple construction is being supervised by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra. The ground-breaking ceremony was performed on 5 August 2020 by India’s prime minister Narendra Modi. India Post Issued My Stamp as on 5 August 2020 on this occasion.
Thailand issued a set of 4 stamps miniature sheet which depicted Rama meeting Sita, Ravana, Hanuman and Ram fighting Ravavana. Date of issue 3rd August 2005.
Exile of Lord Rama
Hanuman Garhi is a 10th century temple located in Ayodhya. When Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after conquering Ravana, Hanumanji started living here. That is why it was named Hanumangarh or Hanuman Kot. From here Hanumanji used to protect Ramkot. In the main temple, Pawansut is seated on the lap of Mata Anjani. Ram Durbar is siting behind Shri Hanuman Ji. It is believed that only after visiting Lord Hanuman Ji, visit of all the temples in Ramkot are considered complete. This special cover released from Faizabad as on 20th October 2020 captures just that.
Ram ki Pauri Ayodhya was built in 1984-85. Devotees take a holy dip in the holy water of river Sarayu at Ram Ki Pauri. Lakhs of devotees come to Ram ki Pauri in the celebrations related to Shri Ram and on the day of Chhoti Deepawali, the people of Ayodhya celebrate the joy of coming to Ayodhya after Lord Shri Ram's victory in Lanka by holding a divine Deepotsav festival at this place.
A commemorative special cover was issued by the Indian Postal Department on 23rd October 2022 to mark the grand Deepotsav celebration in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. The cover commemorates the tradition of lighting countless lamps on the banks of the holy Saryu River, a practice that was initiated in 2017 and has since become an annual event. The cover likely features a vibrant and intricate design depicting the Deepotsav celebration, showcasing the countless lamps illuminating the banks of the Saryu River. The design may also include elements related to Ayodhya, Lord Ram, and the cultural significance of the event.
My Stamp depicting on Deepotsav in Ayodhya, Date of issue 26th October 2019
Sant Goswami Tulsi Das ji composed Ram Charitra Manas. Tulsi Upvan located at Motijheel in Kanpur will now introduce the residents of Tretayug. It will give a pleasant experience to the culture lovers and Ram devotees. Under the Swadesh Darshan scheme, Tretayug will be given live darshan through the first Ramayana theme park and laser light show. Recently, its script has been approved by the Divisional Commissioner after discussing with the litterateurs. Tulsi garden will also become a center of attraction for tourists.
Global Encyclopedia of Ramayana - Rama Culture is present in
all tangible and intangible Heritage related to culture, art and life of the
world continuously about 5000 years. From the dense forests of Honduras (Patal
Lok) in Central America to the 5th century BC to Italy's Etruscan civilization,
2000 BC the authentic evidence of Ramayana culture is found in the Kurdish
region of Belula-Iraq, and the Khamer culture in Southeast Asia in the 7th
Century Valmiki Temple. Ram culture of all the languages and dialects of the
world and India, inspiring the new generation in Ramlila, makes and rites etc.
is also relevant in contemporary contexts.
Lord Rama on the cover of Thailand, which was released on United Nations Day 1981 May. Lord Rama's bow for the victory of truth over falsehood and efforts have been made to show the power of Lord Rama in the countries of the World.
Kodandarama Temple is situated in Gollala Mamidada village in Pedapudi Mandal of Kakinada district in Andhra Prades. This Hindu temple is dedicated to Rama. The construction of the temple began in 1889 by brothers Dwarampudi Subbi Reddy and Rami Reddy who donated land and built a small temple with wooden idols of Rama and Sita. Sri Rama Navami is the most prominent festival celebrated at the temple. It features an annual wedding ceremony of Rama and Sita.
Andhra Postal Circle issued a special cover as on 7th January 2022
The Ramraja temple is world famous Lord Ram temple situated in Orchha, Niwari District in Madhya Pradesh. Here Lord Ram is worshipped as a king in a palace. This temple build in the 16th century by Ganeshkunwari, wife of king Madhukar Shah of Orchha. It is believed that she was the one who brought Lord Ram from Ayodhya to Orchha. Ever today, like a king Lord Ram is given a guard of honor every day. Police personnel are designated as guards at the temple. The offerings to god and other facilities in the temple are also royal. Armed salute is given to Lord Ram every day. This special cover issued from Jabalpur as on 22nd January 2024.
Shri Ramalingeshwara group of temples, situated in Avani town of the Kolar district, Karnataka state. Ramalingeshwara temple build by the Kings of the Nolamba dynasty in the 11th Centure CE. There is a belief that saga Valmiki stayed in this place during the period of Sita's exile and the children Lava and Kusha were born here. This special cover issued Kolar during Kolarpex 2018.
Laos Stamps depicting on Jatayu (Son of Garruda), King of Birds, half Man and half Bird , Date of issue 19th February 1962
A commemorative special cover was issued by the Indian Postal Department on 17th January 2016 to honor Kalaram Mandir, a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Rama. Located in the Panchavati area of Nashik, Maharashtra, the temple is believed to be over 200 years old.
The Inauguration of Sri Ram Mandir
The Historical Significance of Ram Janmabhoomi
Ram Janmabhoomi, located in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India, is a significant religious site for Hindus. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, a central figure in Hindu mythology. For centuries, this site has been a point of contention between Hindu and Muslim communities.
The Inauguration
On January 22, 2024, a historic moment unfolded as Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the grand Sri Ram Mandir. This marked the culmination of years of legal battles and construction efforts. The inauguration was a momentous occasion for Hindus worldwide, symbolizing the triumph of faith and cultural heritage.
The Commemorative Cover
To commemorate this significant event, the Indian Postal Department released a special cover featuring an image of the magnificent Ram Mandir. The cover captures the grandeur of the temple's architecture and symbolizes the spiritual significance of the site.
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