Over 100 countries have released commemorative stamps depicting Mahatma Gandhi. On January 30, India fondly remembered the contributions and sacrifices of the father of the nation as it observed Shaheed Diwas, or Martyrs' Day.
By Pradip Jain
Martyrs' Day, also known as Shaheed Diwas, observed every year on January 30th, is a significant day in India. It marks the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi in 1948 and is a day to honor and remember all the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the nation's independence and well-being.
On January 30, 1948, Mahatma Gandhi was on his way to a prayer meeting in the Birla House, New Delhi, when he was shot by Nathuram Godse. Despite his immediate passing, his last words were reportedly, "Hey Ram", invoking God's name. Gandhi's death shocked the world and reaffirmed his legacy of non-violence and peace.
On August 15, 1947, India attained Independence from the 90 years of British Rule. A set of three stamps (shown above) were issued to commemorate the event.
The day of Independence also brought immense pain and grief due to partition of the country. India was divided to form Pakistan. Violence spread between Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs. Millions were killed.
The Noakhali riots erupted in October 1946, following the communal violence in Calcutta. The violence in Noakhali was intense, with widespread attacks on Hindus, forced conversions, and destruction of religious symbols. Gandhi
visited Noakhali to restore peace and communal harmony. He aimed to address the communal frenzy and provide relief to the affected people.
Bangladesh Stamp – Mahatma Gandhi visit at Noakhali, 1946.
Gandhiji, who advocated communal harmony, suffered immensely. He sat on a fast until death if the violence did not stop. Messages to maintain communal harmony were spread.
An 18.01.1948 cover addressed to Delhi bearing special cachet by the India Post – “Communal Harmony will save Gandhiji”.
For six months after Independence, Gandhiji stayed at Birla House in Delhi. He would meditate and attend prayers. On January 30, 1948, as he walked towards the garden, where the prayer meeting was to take place, he was supported by his grandnieces, Abha and Manu. A large crowd had gathered, as was customary, to see him.
Gandhiji greeted them with his hands joined in his characteristic manner. At that moment, a man named Nathuram Godse, who opposed Gandhi's ideals of nonviolence and his efforts to reconcile Hindus and Muslims, stepped forward from the crowd. Pretending to seek Gandhiji's blessings, Godse bowed briefly before pulling out a pistol. He fired three shots at close range into Gandhiji's chest and abdomen. The leader collapsed instantly.
Special Cover issued on Social Principles of Mahatma Gandhi.
Gandhiji's final words are widely believed to have been "Hey Ram" (Oh God), though there is some historical debate about whether he said anything at all. He passed away moments later. The death came as a shock to India and the world at large. He was cremated at Rajghat in New Delhi. The assassination shocked India and the world, leading to immense grief and mourning. His death is remembered as the loss of a towering figure of peace, tolerance, and humanity.
1948 Mahatma Gandhi Mourning Cover was issued to honor the leader following his death. The stamp was issued on August 15, 1948, to commemorate the first anniversary of India's Independence.
The Government of India was prepared to issue a set of stamps on Gandhi’s 80th birthday on October 2, 1948 as a mark of respect for his contribution towards the nation’s struggle for independence. In January 1948, The India Security Press at Nasik was asked to prepare some designs depicting memorable events in Gandhi’s life. The master India Security Press R C G Chapman sent his suggestions for a compact set of 4 stamps in the denomination of 11/2, 31/2, 12 annas (as) and Re 1. He also submitted 2 trial copies one in the anna and the other in the Rupee size showing Gandhi’s characteristic pose. It was also suggested to take Mahatma’s approval for the design for proposed stamps.
The tragic assassination of Mahatma Gandhi changed the whole scenario. Now it was decided to issue 2 mourning stamps in memory of Gandhi and on February 6, 1948 the security press was asked to furnish fresh designs based on an approved sketch by C Biswas, an Indian artist and manager, Commerce Ministry Press, New Delhi. The proposed denominations were 2 1/2 as for inland airmail and 12as for airmail to the UK.
Over 100 countries have released commemorative stamps depicting Mahatma Gandhi. The United States issued one in 1961. Many other countries have joined in honoring Gandhi with their stamps over the years to commemorate his legacy.
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(All photos courtesy: Pradip Jain)
The writer is a well-known philatelist with several Gold Medals in international philately to his credit. His book, Mahatma Gandhi Memorial issues of 1948, was published in 2015. Contact: [email protected]
