Heritage of India stamps site: Philately on other Hindu aspects

OTHER HINDU ASPECTS

The Vedas are among the oldest sacred texts. Vedas are the most ancient and authentic text of Sanatan Dharma. Vedas are written in Sanskrit language in verses. Vedas are written in four types of texts, hence Vedas are called 'Chaturveda'. The names of these texts are as follows Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda and Atharvaveda. It is such a belief that the Vedas were composed by Brahma, the creator of the universe.

Mauritius stamps depict of Vedas, Date of issue 1st October 1980

The Vedas and Upanishads form the bedrock of Indian philosophy, spirituality, and culture. These ancient texts, composed in Sanskrit, explore profound themes such as the nature of existence, cosmic order, and spiritual practices. The Vedas emphasize rituals, chants, and meditative insights, while the Upanishads delve into deeper metaphysical concepts, offering pathways to transcendental wisdom.

Originating during the Vedic period, these scriptures hold universal relevance, inspiring scholars like Yajnavalkya, Adi Shankaracharya, and other visionaries who further interpreted and disseminated their teachings. Spanning millennia, their legacy is a testament to India’s rich intellectual heritage, influencing global thought and spiritual traditions.

To honor this invaluable cultural contribution, a Special Cover titled "Vedas and Upanishads" is issued from Patna on 29th November 2024. This cover celebrates these timeless texts that continue to guide humanity toward knowledge, introspection, and enlightenment, bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary relevance.

Indra is an ancient Vedic deity in Hinduism. He is the God of Svarga and the Devas. He is associated with the sky, lightning, weather, thunder, storms, rains, river flows, and war। Indra is the most referred deity in the Rigveda celebrated for his powers, and as the one who killed the great evil (a malevolent type of asura) named Vritra.

Laos stamps depict of Indra, Date of issue 23rd March 1974

Rahu is the north lunar node (ascending) and it along with Ketu is a "shadow planet" that causes eclipses. Rahu has no physical shape. It is an imaginary planet but considering the importance of Rahu in astrology, it has been allocated the status of the planet by Rishis.

Laos stamps depict of Rahu, Date of issue 5th February 1971

Shani Dev, the revered Hindu deity of justice and karma, is known for his strict adherence to principles and the potential challenges he brings, ultimately guiding individuals towards spiritual growth and self-discovery through patience, perseverance, and discipline.

The Shri Shaneshwara temple, originally situated in Bannumane-Shiruvane village within Sagar taluk of Shivamogga district, was inundated by the Linganamakki backwaters. Subsequently, the temple was relocated to Kanchikai village, also within Sagar taluk. This Special Cover issued from Shivamogga (Karnataka Postal Circle) as on 15th January 2019

Kuber God - Kubera is the Yakshas in Hindu culture. He is regarded as the regent of the North (Dikpala), and a protector of the world (Lokapala)

Indonesia issued stamps on Daneswar (Kubar) as on 5th July 1963

Nepal Stamps - Hrishikesh -Ridi, Date of issue 30th December 1981

India Special Cover on The Second World Hindu Conference, Prayag 2009

Visva Hindu Sammelan was conducted at a special erected Maharshi Vedavyas Mahanagar at Prayag from 25.01.1979 to 27.01.1979 by the Vishwa Hindu Pasishad. On this occasion, a special cover with a cancellation depictinf the Sanskrit symbol "OM" (above the sacred Peepal (Ficus religiosa) tree and in the orb of the sun) which is considered as the divine letter representing the Brahma the Supreme Truth. This syllable is mentioned throughout the Vedas and especially the major Upanishads like the "छान्दोग्य" (Chhandogya).

"OM" Sing of World Peace and prosperity, Kenya Post stamps on OM, issued as on 23rd August 1984

"OM" on Mozambique stamps, Date of issue 30th November 2010

"OM" on Mozambique miniature sheet, Date of issue 30th November 2010

Swastika on Stamps
The swastika has been an important Hindu symbol since time immemorial. That's why before doing any auspicious work, it is worshiped by marking the swastika symbol. Swastik is worshiped as a symbol of Ganesha and in Rajasthan as a symbol of Rani Sati. The swastika has a special association with Diwali, being drawn with rangoli (coloured sand) or lamp lighting on the floor and wall decorations outside Hindu homes.The clockwise or right-handed sign 卐 is called the swastika, while the counterclockwise or left-handed sign 卍is called the Sauvastika or Suvastika. In Hinduism, clockwise swastika is considered auspicious, while counterclockwise is considered inauspicious. This counterclockwise swastika was inscribed in the flag of Germany's dictator Hitler, which became the reason for his destruction.
South Korea Stamps on Traditional Culture issued as on 24th June 2004

The Swastika Symbol on Taiwanese Stamps: A Historical Perspective

The swastika is an ancient symbol that has been used in various cultures to represent auspiciousness and good fortune. It is particularly prominent in Eastern cultures, including India and China. In Taiwan, influenced by Chinese culture, the swastika was also used as a symbol of positive connotations.

However, due to its unfortunate association with the Nazi regime in the 20th century, the swastika has become a controversial symbol in many parts of the world. It's crucial to consider the historical and cultural context of a symbol before making judgments about its meaning. In the case of Taiwanese stamps, the swastika likely represents its traditional, positive significance.

To fully understand the use of the swastika on Taiwanese stamps, it's essential to delve into the historical and cultural context of the time. Date of issue 2nd March 1993

Traditional Balinese Paintings

The painting, a classic example of Balinese traditional art, showcases a scene rich in Hindu mythological symbolism. While it's challenging to pinpoint the exact deity. Date of issue 2nd May 1981

Culture and Tradition of Hindu's

Maa Ganga - Consider to giver of life, giver of salvation.

Guinea stamps on worship of Holy River Ganga, Date of issue 10th February 2011

India stamps on The Gangas, Date of issue 25th January 2023

In the Hinduism Pinddaan is a ritual to offer homage to the departed soul. Pinddaan in Gaya and other places is a very important Hindu ritual and is performed by the relatives of the person who left for the heavenly abode. According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Rama performed Pinddaan of his father Dasharatha in Gaya. It is believed that by donating Pind here, the deceased gets salvation.

Special cover issued from Gaya as on 18th September 2021

Personalities

150th Anniversary of the Birth of Sri Aurobindo, Special cover issued from Bhilai as on 10th August 2022

Mandan Mishra - Adi Shankaracharya (Shastrath)

Introduction to Mandan Mishra

Mandan Mishra was a renowned scholar of Indian philosophy and a great thinker of Advaita Vedanta, born in Mahishi block of Saharsa district in Bihar. He was a distinguished Vedic scholar of his time. Mahishi holds historical significance as the site where, 1200 years ago, the famous debate between Mandan Mishra and Adi Shankaracharya took place. The judge of this legendary debate was Mandan Mishra’s wife, Bharati, a remarkable scholar herself. Mandan Mishra's work, Brahmasiddhi, profoundly elaborates on the principles of Advaita Vedanta, enriching Indian philosophy and spiritual traditions.

Introduction to Adi Shankaracharya

Adi Shankaracharya, an Indian philosopher and theologian, was the founder of Advaita Vedanta. Born in Kaladi, Kerala, he unified Hinduism, wrote profound commentaries on Vedic texts, and established four mathas (monastic centers) to preserve spiritual and philosophical traditions.

The special cover issued from Patna on November 30, 2024, commemorates the historic debate between Adi Shankaracharya and Mandan Mishra. This philosophical encounter, held at Mandan Mishra's home, saw a clash between two major schools of thought: Advaita Vedanta, championed by Shankaracharya, and Mimamsa, espoused by Mandan Mishra.

Shankaracharya, a proponent of non-dualism, argued for the ultimate oneness of the soul (Atman) and the universal consciousness (Brahman). Mandan Mishra, a distinguished scholar of Mimamsa, emphasized the importance of Vedic rituals and karma for spiritual progress. The debate, judged by Mandan Mishra's wife, Ubhaya Bharati, was a landmark event in Indian intellectual history.

The special cover, issued from Patna, pays tribute to this significant philosophical discourse and highlights the rich intellectual heritage of India. It serves as a reminder of the profound impact of these ancient thinkers on Indian philosophy and spirituality.

Swami Sivananda was born on 8 September 1887 in Pattamadai, South India. Swamiji founded the Divine Life Society in 1936 to spread the ideals of love, In his book 'Vijay of the Mind', Swamiji teaches various ways to control the mind which according to him is the cause of both bondage and liberation. Taught the purification of the mind through yoga asanas. Mauritius Post issued a special stamps as on 16th September 1981