Spain issued stamp on 150 Anniversary Birth of Mahatma Gandhi

Every year, on October 2, India celebrates the anniversary of the birth of Gandhi, who was born that day in 1869 in Porbandar. Therefore, this year marks 150 years since its birth and Correos dedicates a stamp to this illustrious character.

The seal shows through a watercolor a portrait of Gandhi with his characteristic glasses and a slight smile. Behind him, the flag of India. In front, the silhouette of four women dressed in the typical Indian sari of bright colors.

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was an Indian activist and lawyer, known for fighting for the rights of the Indian population. His methods were peaceful resistance and nonviolence. Son of the prime minister of Porbandar and Putlibai, he was educated in respect and tolerance.

The nickname of Mahatma, for which he was known, was given by the Indian poet Tagore and translated as “Great soul”.

Hired as a lawyer in South Africa, it was there, in that country, where he felt racial discrimination towards the Indians and towards himself. He learned that a law was being drafted that would prohibit voting for Indian citizens. At that time he began his fight for the civil rights of the Indians in the African country and founded the Indian Party of the Natal Congress with which they began to demonstrate against discrimination and inequality. His methods of protest were nonviolence and peaceful resistance.

He returned to India in 1915 where he was already well known for his struggle. He changed his western way of dressing for the typical one of his country adopting traditional customs and lifestyle. In February 1919, he demonstrated at the side of Great Britain in the First World War. However, he soon began to lead the opposition against the British upon learning about the Rowlatt bill. Mahatma Gandhi was in prison several times throughout his life for the protests he led. After the end of World War II, India was divided between Indians and Muslims, producing strong clashes that Gandhi tried to stop, something that caused his death, being killed in 1948.

Technical details

• Issue Date: 02.10.2019
• Process: Offset
• Size: 28,8 x 40,9 mm
• Values: €1.00