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Rainbow Stamp News

Monthly e-Stamp Bulletin edited and published by Jeevan Jyoti from Dehradun.

Monday, December 9, 2024

Rainbow December 2024

 

Merry Christmas !!


Date of Issue : 1 November 2024


Dehradun December 2024 Vol. XVII Issue No. 204

Readers are requested to send reports of philatelic activities in their area for publication. Short write ups by the readers about, societies, publications and philatelic requirements can be sent for inclusion in this bulletin to the editor: j.jyoti9@gmail.com

Note- This bulletin is only for circulation among a limited group of philatelists without any commercial purpose. The bulletin will be sent to the readers only on request. Those who wish to receive it regularly please reply giving the name of your city / country with the subject SUBSCRIBE RAINBOW


 Christmas 2024



1. 65c Santa Takes Selfie 2. $3 Reindeer with Red Footed Booby Birds


Editorial….


Dear Reader,

I am pleased to release December 2024 issue of Rainbow Stamp News. With this Issue No.204 Rainbow completes 17 years of successful publication without any break. Thanks to all my readers and contributors for their support and appreciation.

It is the time of philatelic exhibitions. district evel and state level exhibitions are being held in different parts of the country. Now we are looking forward to a National Exhibition which is proposed to be held in 2025. 1st International Virtual Aerophilatelic and Astrophilatelic  Exhibition is going to be held from 15-23 February 2025. It is a big step in the promotion of philately to organise such a big exhibition of a particular class. Philatelic Congress of India and other Philatelic Clubs and Societies should also think of organizing such specific class exhibition time to time.. In the past Baroda Philatelic Society organized a successful Philatelic exhibition of national level of One Frame Class in 2009 and Eastern India Philatelic Association and South India Philatelic Association have also organized national level exhibition on a specific Thematic Class. Such Exhibitions are easy to organize and manage. More philatelists get a chance to participate for a specific class. These exhibitions could be organized in virtual and physical form alternately.

This is all for this month. More in the next issue. Happy Collecting!















LET’S THINK ABOUT CLASS BASED ONLINE EXHIBITIONS




Though I enjoy every bit of philately but my major inclination is towards Thematic as from my childhood days the subject matter covered by this class through stamps always attracted me. During those days Butterflies, Flowers, Personalities, Poets and Writers, Cars, Horses etc. used to be the common collecting topics. And these were the topics which even veteran philatelists of that time used to collect and endorse. But over the years I understood that philately is far ahead of it. It has become advanced and research oriented too. There are so many classes which covered huge field, information and collecting material. It required rich study and of course search and research.

While going ahead with my thematic interests, I also collected material related to other classes like postal history, traditional and others. Perusing thematic also helped me to get recognition in philatelic field but believe me somewhere in my heart the other collecting interests also kept knocking to just have some look in to those too. Fact remains that people, like me having limited sized pockets can only move ahead with their limitations.

Well, after sharing this journey of mine with you, my concern is that in today’s scenario philately has no boundaries. It has expanded, classes have increased and efforts are being made to serve every stamp lover to cater him with philatelic stuffs of his interest pertaining to almost all the classes of philately. Yes, of course! competitive philately is highly demanding now but general philately has lot to cater and deliver like collecting and exhibiting of picture postcards, special covers, first day covers and introduction of classes like frugal philately, social philately, open philately etc. I mean any one or everyone can taste philately as efforts are being made by philatelic thinkers to look in to every size of pocket and almost every taste of philatelic stuffs. Innovations are also being made to attract people towards philately.  No doubt, due to emergence of new collecting interest and hobbies, competitiveness for survival of philately has increased. Hence, it has expanded, diversified and simplified too.

Well friends, of late my inclination is towards Aero Philately mainly due to the online exhibition to be organized by AMSI in February 2025. Though I have collected some material of this class over the years and had also exhibited once or twice in past. But   this prospective online exhibition of AMSI has given a new life to this interest. I must appreciate this effort of AMSI (Air Mail Society India Foundation) as it has truly tried to reach every philatelist who has even a little bit of inclination towards Aero and Astro philately. I too have applied for participation in this exhibition. And I understand most of us who even though are not hardcore Aero Philatelists but would certainly like to taste the aero and Astro stuffs of philately.

After having discussed all this my main concern is to understand the fact that exhibitions held at different platforms both off line and online cover almost all active classes of philately and offer visitors huge philatelic stuff in form of exhibits pertaining to several classes to watch. But do the visitors genuinely visit each exhibit and each frame? No, the don’t. It rather gives them a state of hurriedness as they like to watch most of the exhibits in limited time available with them. They do enjoy but this does not help philately to inculcate interest in him for the classes other than his existing interest.

I have visited many online exhibitions and participated too but never visited any online exhibition pertaining to one particular class. AMSI with its First Virtual International Exhibition named AMSIPEX-25 has not only given chance to the stamp lovers to have a close look to this class of philately but also invited them to participate in whatever state of collection or competitiveness they find themselves to be as AMSI has introduced new NOVICE CLASS also. This is certainly introduced to attract maximum stamp lover to start their aero journey from here. I personally feel one must think upon it and as there is limited time left, should come forward and participate.

While I wish AMSI a great success for this exhibition, I would like to thank it also for introducing a new trend in philately which would help philately to grow and develop. It has shown a way to other various philatelic societies to come forward and conduct such exhibition pertaining to one or two specific classes of philately. Like Thematic societies may come forward with such thematic exhibitions. One or two societies may join and come forward. Even PCI may come forward to help them in this cause. This trend will help particular class to develop and to inculcate interest among the philatelists for that particular class. 

Hope philatelic thinkers shall look in to this suggestion and help philately to develop, promote and grow.

-Naresh Agrawal , Bilaspur (C.G.)  email  nareshkumar1992@yahoo.co.in 


Recent Indian Issues



9 November 2024 : Vadtal Dham Dwishatabdi Mahotsav – Rs 5

10 November 2024 : Acharya Shantisagar Muni Maharaj – Rs 5

10 November 2024 : Pujya dada Bhagwan - Rs 5

15 November 2024 : Sickle Cell Eradication 2047 – Rs 5

16 November 2024 : 150th Birth Anniversary of Birsa Munda – Rs 5

16 November 2024 : 100 Years of Hindustan Times – Rs 5

21 November 2024 : 125th Birth Anniversary of Dr. Harekrushna Mahtab – Rs 5

25 November 2024 : 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF CONSTITUTION – Rs 5

5 December 2024 : Ashtalaksmi Mahotsav – Rs 5



 


New Special Covers 


7 December 2024 : Allahabad Sporting Club - Allahabad


4 December 2024 : Bhagwat Peeth Shri Sukhdev Ashram, Shukratal


29 November 2024 : Mascot of Mahapex 2025 : Shekaru : Shahad


Special Cancellations

 

26 November 2024 : National Contitution Day : Mangaluru


4 December 2024 : Bhagwat Peeth Shukradev Ashram


5 December 2024 : World Soil Day


 4 December 2024 : Gateway of India : Mumbai


7 December 2024 : Armed Forces Flag Day




New Picture Postcards by India Post






In The News

 

China 2024 -Asian International Stamp Exhibition


 




Indian Winners


Heartiest Congratulations!!

Award list of Indian Participants






SHARJAH 2024


Indian Winners


Award List of Indian Winners



CHICAGOPEX 2024

1. Capt Vijay Wadhwa 2. M. Lokeswara Rao

Indian Winners ( Lit. Class)

Shashi Pal - HANDS: Crafting gestures and expressions through philately (82 pts)  - Large Vermeil

Capt. Vijay Wadhwa – The Pigeon (76 pts) - Vermeil

Vijay Wadhwa Behavioural Diversity Among Birds (78 pts)  - Vermeil

M. Lokeswara Rao CITES: Endangered Species on Stamps (70 pts) – Large Silver

Kumesh Kumar Jain Save Planet Earth: Stamp Out Pollution (73 pts) – Large Silver

FLOREX 2024

 


Nisarg Sutaria -
Mahatma Gandhiji's Life Through Picture Postcards.- Bronze

https://www.aape.org/exhibit_view_frame.asp?intExhibitNumber=222&intCurrentFrameNumber=1


PCI News


 Mr Rajesh Kumar Bagri, Hon Secretary General PCI, attended as a Voting Delegate from India at the World Congress of Federacion International de Philatelie (FIP) under their official invitation.



Philatelic Advisory Committee Meeting

26 Nov 2024 , New Delhi

The meeting of Philatelic Advisory Committee (PAC) was held at Taj Ambssador Hotel, New Delhi. It was attended by Minister of State for Communications, Dr.Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, Nominee Members of Parliament, Members of Rajya Sabha, officials of Department of Posts and representatives of Ministry of Finance, Sports, Culture, History, Army Postal Services (APS) and others regarding new proposals for issue of stamps and policy matters on Philately. Delegates from Philatelic Congress of India-PCI. Madhukar Deogawanka, President Elect PCI, Rajesh Kumar Bagri,  Hon Secretary General-PCI and G. Anil Reddy, Vice President, PCI.

2025 Themes for EUROPA and SEPAC stamps

EUROPA stamps

The Europa postage stamp  is an annual joint issue of stamps with a common design or theme by postal administrations of member countries of the European Communities (1956–1959), the European Conference of Postal and Telecommunications Administrations (CEPT) from 1960 to 1992, and the PostEurop Association since 1993. Europe is the central theme.

EUROPA stamps underlines cooperation in the post’s domain, taking into account promotion of philately. They also build awareness of the common roots, culture and history of Europe and its common goals. As such, EUROPA stamp issues are among the most collected and most popular stamps in the world.

Since the first issue in 1956, EUROPA stamps have been a tangible symbol of Europe's desire for closer integration and cooperation

SEPAC Stamps

The Small European Postal Administration Cooperation (SEPAC) is an association of 13 European postal authorities: Åland, the Faroe Islands, Gibraltar, Greenland, Guernsey, Iceland, the Isle of Man, Jersey, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, and Vatican City. Luxembourg was not originally a member of SEPAC but it joined at the end of 2006. San Marino decided to leave and is no longer a member, as of March 2020. SEPAC is smaller than PostEurop.

The first joint issue of SEPAC postage stamps occurred on October 1, 2007, and the next in 2009;the sixth one was in September 2015. San Marino and Vatican City do not participate in these issues.

 Europa 2025 Theme - National Archeological Discoveries


SEPAC 2025 Theme - Architecture




Forthcoming Stamp Exhibitions

INPEX-2025

The Philatelic Congress of India (PCI), National Philatelic Federation, is going to organise and hold

the National Philatelic Exhibition INPEX-2025 between January-March 2025 .

URUGUAY 2025

17-22 Feb 2025

URUGUAY 2025 is a Specialized World Stamp Exhibition with a capacity of 2000 display frames, that will be held to celebrate the 200 years of the declaration of independence of Uruguay.

Classes available for participation are: for Competitive classes Postal History, Traditional, Postal Stationery, Aerophilately, Thematic classes, Open Philately and Literature.

National Commissioner : Parvesh Kumar Gupta, Email : maachis001@gmail.com  WhatsApp +919810628387 

 Joint National Commissioner : Raunak Dutta , Email : raunak.dutta1990@yahoo.in

  WhatsApp +919830146836

 


MELBOURNE 2025

Melbourne 2025, FIAP recognised International Exhibition  will be held in 2025.in  Melbourne, Australia

For more details: https://melbourne2025.com.au/ Mr. Rajesh Paharia is the National Commissioner (WhatsApp +919351716969) Email: shreetotal@gmail.com

 BOSTON-2026

The FIP Patronaged 12th International Philatelic Exhibition of the United States gathers at the Seaport section of the city Boston Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC) will be held from 23 to 30 May 2026. For more details: https://boston2026.org/


AMSIPEX-25

1st International Virtual Aerophilatelic and Astrophilatelic Exhibition 

(15-23 February 2025)






BAREILLYPEX-2024


MAHAPEX 2025


News from Philatelists and Philatelic Societies

BIPEX 2024 , Patna

 


Postal Heritage of Bihar

A Journey of India Post Bihar through Stamps


Postal Heritage of Bihar – A Journey of India Post Bihar through Stamps

Explore Bihar’s rich postal history with “Postal Heritage of Bihar“. This beautifully illustrated book covers key milestones, from the first prepaid stamp to Meghdootam, historic postal buildings, and special covers. Dive into the evolution of mail conveyance, Indian postal logos, and rare cancellations. Featuring insights into philatelic exhibitions, Gandhi’s connection to Bihar, and ancient universities, this book is a treasure for collectors and history enthusiasts.

Armed Forces Flag Day


-Pradip Jain, Patna

Obituary

Shri C.R. Andhare, noted philatelist of Bilaspur, Chhatisgarh passed away on 2 December 2024. He was lifelong president of Chhattisgarh Philatelic Association. He won many awards at different philatelic exhibitions. Our deepest condolences. May his soul rest in peace. 


Philatelic Memories and Experiences



China 2024 Asian International Stamp Exhibition Shanghai,

29 November – 3 December 2024

                  

   

          

This grand show was organised to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.  The exhibition was held at the Shanghai Exhibition Center conveniently located in the centre of Shanghai. The venue is a grand building with large courtyards and exhibition space.

With Patronage from the Federation of Inter-Asian Philately (FIAP), the event was hosted by the State Post Bureau of China under the theme of “Stamps present Asian Culture”. 

 

 The Exhibition

CHINA 2024 comprised of 1,617 frames, including 16 competitive classes. More than 50 countries and regions participated in the exhibition and on-site sales activities with over 323 competitive entries and another 49 Literature Class participants. There were large, spacious and well-lit exhibition halls and the frames were very well laid out with good and logical numbering and labelling. Locating exhibits was easy and viewing them was not too difficult.


2. The display area for competitive exhibits

 There were 10 competitive entries by Indian philatelists comprising of 50 frames and another 6 entries under the literature class. These were across a variety of categories and represented a good cross section of what is popular in India these days. Jury feedback sessions were well organised and of immense value to the participants. The commissioners were seen zipping around the hall to get as many jury as possible to elicit feedback for those participants who could not attend.



 


A court of honour displayed star postal artefacts from the collections of 22 previous winners of the Grand Prix d’Honneur.

 

6. A Court of Honour exhibit – 1859 Entire from Bangkok to Boston with Indian franking forwarded from Singapore

 

There was also a UPU section with frames displaying UPU and United Nations postal articles. A fascinating novelty was a 20-frame display of crypto stamps. The ever-enthusiastic exhibitor took great pleasure in talking us through his collection. As it was a new subject for me, I did not understand much about this but evidently, several countries have started issuing crypto stamps and they have a large following within the philatelic community.


 Dealer booths and other stalls

Various postal departments and provinces from China went all out to display stamps and other mementos. All very high quality and much sought after by the visitors. Several Postal Jurisdictions also had booths and brought a large selection of material with them for display and sale. Even small countries like the Faroe Islands were a big draw because of the beautiful stamps they displayed and their bright idea to bring Martin Morck the stamp designer with them who was signing souvenir stamps for collectors.In addition, there were stalls by leading auction houses and dealers that all attracted large crowds.

 Audience and participation

Over 20,000 visitors were estimated to have visited the event, and they ranged from serious collectors to small children. It was a delight to see entire families enjoying the show and participating in all the activities there. Despite the large size of the venue, there were considerable crowds that gave a festive atmosphere and delightful buzz to the entire place. Several activities were organised for children like treasure hunts, musical and art events and other forms of entertainment. The overall young demographic clearly gave us the impression that philately is alive and kicking in this part of the world.

 

 9.Large crowd thronged the exhibition for all the four days

 The FIAP Golden Jubilee

The event also coincided with the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the founding of the FIAP. A book was released commemorating this anniversary and an article contributed by PCI was also included here. A large cake was also cut to celebrate this at the Palmares evening and enjoyed by all. 

10. The FIAP Golden Jubilee Cake and Souvenir Book

 

The Palmares night

This is a much-awaited event in any show as it marks the conclusion of the exhibition, announcement and distribution of awards and other significant events. It is also an opportunity for much bonhomie and relaxed socialising between officials, jury, commissioners, exhibitors and stall holders. Everyone is now intermingled into one big mass of stamp lovers irrespective of the hats we wore over the last 4 days.

The gala sit-down dinner was accompanied with elaborate food and wine. Even the few vegetarian delegates were surprised with the never-ending stream of food prepared specially for them. Much singing and cheer was in evidence and the usual round of speeches and cheering was followed by awarding winners of Large Gold, Gold and Large Vermeil medals on stage.

The event ended with passing on the FIAP flag to Thailand which will host Bangkok 2025, the next FIAP event, and the customary rendition of Auld Lang Syne which moved more than one delegate to tears.

The 77th FIP Congress

The Congress was also held on 3rd December in the conveniently located official hotel, Portman Ritz-Carlton, just across the street from the exhibition. Rajesh Bagri, the delegate and three observers from India attended this very well conducted meeting. The lengthy agenda included several important topics and details should be available on the FIP website.




The Stamp shopping mall

We found time to visit the Shanghai Ludong Stamp, Coin and Card Collection Exchange Market not very far from our hotel. This is a large two storied market with about 500 dealer shops selling coins and stamps. It was an incredible experience to see this kind of large market, all at one place. Almost all the material on sale was Chinese, but what we saw at the exhibition, and again at this market clearly brought home the message that modern philately has a massive following here and will grow in India as well over time.

Indian representation

The Commissioner from India, Pratisad Neurgaonkar, and Assistant Commissioner, Rajesh Paharia, are to be commended for their splendid service in tedium like ASI approval, carrying exhibits, customs formalities, mounting & dismounting the exhibits etc. This is no mean task. They have worked selflessly to make it a success. Hats off to you sirs!

 

 

14. L to R Asstt. Commissioner Rajesh Paharia, Commissioner Pratisad Neurgaonkar and Secretary General Rajesh Bagri

 

The Secretary General of the PCI, Rajesh Bagri also attended the exhibition as well as the FIP Congress.

India Post was represented by Priyanka Mishra, Director – Philately who went around the exhibition in detail, and also attended the WADP (World Association for the Development of Philately) sessions. This is a UPU body set up in 1997 and promotes philately through continuous dialogue between partners in the philatelic sector and posts.


15. Priyanka Mishra, DG-Philately with the author, Piyush Khaitan at his exhibit.

All told this was a wonderful experience. The fellowship we enjoyed and total immersion into philately for the four days of the exhibition made for lifelong memories. It is very difficult to describe how happy we all felt, and the easiest way to describe it is that for these four days we never thought of anything but philately. We were cocooned in another world.

-          Piyush Khaitan - email :  pk@khaitan.in

 

 Commemorating the Last Domestic Flight of Air Vistara and the First Domestic Flight of Air Vistara under the Air India code






 


In philately, airmail covers and first flight covers hold a special place of significance. The history of Indian airmails is marked by pioneers like Henri Pequet, the French pilot who flew the first airmail across the Yamuna River on 18th February 1911; Stephen Smith, who tested mail delivery via rocket in Sikkim; early Indian pilots like the Sharma brothers, R.N. Chawla and the legendary J.R.D. Tata, who piloted the inaugural Tata and Son’s Karachi-Bombay flight via Ahmedabad. These figures shine brightly in aviation history, immortalized through their remarkable contributions.

 

Thanks to the Air Mail Society of India (AMSI), my wife, Suma B. K., and I (Akhil Reddy C M) had the privilege of contributing to further immortalising this legacy by carrying 100 specially prepared covers aboard Air Vistara’s final domestic flight.

The End of an Era




 

Monday, 11th November 2024, marked the conclusion of Air Vistara's operations. Founded in 2013 and commencing commercial flights on 9th January 2015, Air Vistara quickly earned a reputation as India’s premier airline under the joint ownership of the Tata Group and Singapore Airlines. Following Tata's acquisition of Air India on 22nd January 2022, a decision was made to merge both airlines. This merger was officially completed on 11th November 2024, with Vistara flights now operating under the Air India code, and Singapore Airlines becoming a significant minority stakeholder in the merged entity.

The final domestic flight, UK-504, departed from Kochi to Bengaluru on 11th November, scheduled at 10:50 PM and arriving at 11:50 PM. To commemorate this historic occasion, The Air Mail Society India Foundation (AMSI) prepared 100 limited-edition covers, each individually numbered.

A Philatelic Adventure

Suma and I embarked on this special journey, traveling to Kochi on 10th November to carry these covers back to Bengaluru on Air Vistara’s final flight. Each cover was meticulously prepared, affixed with additional stamps, and cancelled at the Fort Cochin Post Office with its iconic Magen David Permanent Pictorial Cancellation (PPC). The postmaster, SPM Thasja T., graciously facilitated the process, cancelling 100 covers and 20 postcards in record time.

On 11th November, we boarded the historic UK-504 flight, carrying these covers to Bengaluru, where they were again cancelled with the Bengaluru (Vidhana Soudha) PPC the following day. To authenticate their journey, I signed every cover and secured the signatures of Commander Capt. Sanjiv Gupta and First Officer Capt. Bala Krishna on five of them.

Left: The postmaster, SPM Thasja T. cancelling the mail

Right: Suma B.K and the author preparing the covers


A Tribute to the New Chapter




12th November marked the first Air Vistara domestic flight operating under the Air India code as a result of the merger. This was flight AI 2895 From Delhi To Trivandrum with a scheduled departure at 4:45 am.  AMSI also prepared a special Air India first flight covers commemorating the post-merger operations. These were also a limited edition with just 100 produced, and each one serially numbered. Our member, and well known philatelist, Mr. Madhukar Jhingan, volunteered to manage the postal activities in New Delhi. He ensured that these covers were posted from Delhi with a 12th November 2024 cancellation to all AMSI members by Registered Post.

Since AMSI (www.airmailsocietyindia.org) has produced 100 covers for each of these two flights, I understand that there is a small quantity available. I am not sure whether these are for sale, or will be given to new incoming members, or to AMSIPEX-25 (www.amsipex.com) participants. What I do know that these are a part of Indian Aerophilately and will mark an important milestone in Indian Civil Aviation History.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to AMSI, its Chairman Piyush Khaitan, Naveen O C (who designed and procured these covers) and Dharmdev Maurya (who facilitated this entire event) for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Though I had never flown with Vistara before, this experience allowed me to bid farewell to an airline that set high standards in Indian civil aviation and to create a lasting philatelic legacy.

     - Akhil Reddy email : cmakhilreddy@gmail.com


Specialized Section


Letters, Which Were A Challenge For Postman To Deliver......


 
  


In one of my informal meetings with a high postal official, he shared his experiences on the very interesting way of addressing on post by few senders who make maps of the location or landmark or the special feature of the recipient’s home. It becomes even more interesting when colour of the cow or some pet animals indicated as a reference so that safe delivery of the post is ensured. 

Sometimes it indicates the innocence of the sender and sometimes the lack of house numbering or street naming in early 17th and 18th centuries. There were no organised street naming or house numbering systems (if it occurred at all, the naming and numbering was purely random), thus the addressing of a letter was more akin to a  RAC route planner with a descriptive narration to guide the post boy to the ‘target’ residence. 

Address on an early cover reads: “To the tobacconist inhabiting the shop coloured black in sketch, next door to Park’s, Edinburgh N.B.”

One more interesting example of it I found in the Grosvenor Auctions catalogue .It was an Envelpdope of 1861 printed ''REGISTERED SAFETY ENVELOPE/NOT TO BE OPENED WITHOUT DETECTION'' sent from London to Lamplugh, W. Cockermouth with 1d Penny Red stamp. Instead of addressee name, only described his speciality and written “To the Principal Shopkeeper or Person who sells Stationery of…” 


An early envelope without addressee name, only described his speciality. It reads: “To the Principal Shopkeeper or Person who sells Stationery of ………..”

 But such peculiar way of addressing not limited to 17th and 18th century, it continues even today in 21st century when established postal address for any person or establishment exists in most part of the world. The reason for such un-usual addressing may be sometime only fun or addressee being an identity locally-nationally or internationally. 

 Only Portrait, Characteristics or Landmark as Addressee’s Postal Address 

Mahatma Gandhi is one such internationally known personality who received many post addressed un-usually. A collection of such Postcards and Envelopes posted from abroad and within the country and successfully delivered to him, are displayed beautifully in Sabarmathy Ashram, Ahmedabad. 

Uniquely addressed these letters sometimes depicted only his portrait as address or his ideals for which he was known world over.  

 

Postal covers with Gandhi Portrait only for Address

 

Postal cover with Gandhi Portrait only for Address posted from NY

 


  Instead of name of Addressee Gandhi, only written   “The Great Ahimsa Noble of India, Wardha”

Another such example is related toSigmund”, a nationally popular artist of Iceland. 

He also been delivered successfully a letter mailed from Thailand addressed only "Sigmund, Iceland". 

Salvador Dali was also a prominent Spanish surrealist painter and known for his characteristic flamboyant moustache. In a 2010 poll, his facial hair was voted the most famous moustache of all time. He is delivered many mails successfully carrying picture of his famous moustache only as his address. 

In 2016, a postman in County Wexford, southeast Ireland, managed to deliver the letter with just the hand-drawn map and no address on the envelope. It featured a drawing of the “Hook Lighthouse”, which is one of the oldest lighthouses in the world situated at the tip of the Hook Peninsula, along with the helpful message: "Here please".

 


 The letter featured a drawing of the lighthouse along with the helpful message: "Here please".

 Such un-usual addressing is not only found on mails of only nationally/internationally famous persons/ buildings etc.  but examples exist for ordinary persons too. 

 A letter was delivered successfully  to the farmers at Holar in Hvammsveit, West Iceland, at the end of March, 2016, although it included neither the recipients’ names nor their address only had drawn a map on the envelope, showing the rough location of the unnamed farm, along with a brief description of the family living there. Few more information the mailman had to go by was:  

“Country: Iceland, 

City: Buoardalur, 

Name: A horse farm with an Icelandic/Danish couple and three kids and a lot of sheep”.

An additional clue in the lower right hand corner read, “The Danish woman works in a supermarket in Buoardalur.”


The letter mailed in Reykjavík by foreign tourist who had visited the farm earlier

 A 2015 letter also reached to its destination without any address, only written:

“Your man Henderson. 

That boy with the glasses who is doing the PhD up there in Queens in Belfast.” 

For many, trying to decipher who “your man Henderson” is might seem a fairly big task, but it proved no bother for Buncrana postman. He cunningly delivered it to the “Irish Times” office where Roisin Henderson, wife of the aforementioned “boy with the glasses”, works as a journalist.  


The delivered letter ‘your man with the glasses’, 2015

(Barry Henderson, to whom the letter was cryptically addressed, is in fact “doing the PhD up in Belfast “in modern history at Queens University.

The couple live in Buncrana, Co Donegal, which is about as far as the writer got in terms of geographical knowledge of the address.)


Even a German Christmas card with just "England" on the envelope has reached the right address of a common man, in Gloucestershire.  


German Christmas card with just "England" on the envelope as address


Paul Biggs, from Longlevens was absolutely shocked when his postman arrived at his front door with the card from his friend in Bitburg in Germany posted on Monday and was handed to him by his postman on Wednesday morning. 

The postman had been carrying the letter as he completed his round, asking his customers if the card was for them. It is believed that originally card have been addressed correctly and so was sent to the right area of England - but with an address label that fell off at some point. 

Though the Royal Mail's team of 'address detectives' are renowned for their ability to ensure poorly addressed items of mail reach their intended recipients, even by their standards, this example is pretty impressive. 

Mind blowing way of addressing mails, just for fun 

Peculiarity in addressing is not always due to lack of available address, drop out of address labels or sometimes illiteracy but many mails witnessed it to be just for fun. 

I found again a very interesting 1867 cover from Moffatt to Glasgow, for auction in Grosvenor Auctions catalogue most unusually addressed in the form of a humorous poem: 'Intelligent postman! Take this letter, (I really don't think you could do any better)..., But postman accepted this challenge, searched out the clues hidden in the poetry and delivered it safely to the right person.  


An 1867 (June 22nd) envelope from Moffatt to Glasgow   unusually addressed in the form of a humorous poem

 A Dublin man also posted a letter with the broken-up jigsaw address, just to see how far Irish postal service will go to deliver a letter with such un-usually addressed. He surprised when found that crossword puzzle clues was solved with style and letter was delivered successfully with a polite note explaining why they had to open it up. 

 

Letter with a jigsaw puzzle address 


The Irish mail service have called him "a postal champion", "a legend of letters", a "king of puzzles" but they'd like a break from the problem solving.

 Call it crazy, call it complicated or as philatelic fun many more mind boggling un-usually addressed envelopes received by postal department in many parts of the world and intelligent postmen accepted the challenges and delivered the mails at their right destinations. I am concluding my article with few more examples saluting the dedication-intelligence and honesty towards service of the postal departments and their workers.  

 


Irish letter with address written in mirror writing

 


The letter to the brewery with the cryptic address

 


I failed to find a caption for this envelope

 (Images courtesy: Grosvenor Auctions catalogue, Viswas Menon, Vala Hafsted, David Curran and from net)

Beginners’ Section


The Feast of Saint Nicholas


Berlin #9NB220 – 1984 Berlin stamp picturing Saint Nicholas



Saint Nicholas of Myra died on December 6, 343. This date has long been celebrated as Saint Nicholas Day or the Feast of Saint Nicholas.

Saint Nicholas is believed to have been born on March 15, 270, in Patara, Roman Empire, near Myra, present-day Turkey, to wealthy parents. Many of the details of Nicholas’s life are based on older written stories and oral traditions. No writings from his lifetime survive, and most of the stories about his deeds were written centuries later.

US #3541-44 features depictions of Santa created between 1880 and 1920.

According to tradition, Nicholas’s parents died in an epidemic when he was young and he moved in with his uncle – a bishop. Young Nicholas was deeply religious and took to heart the readings and teachings of Jesus. He began using his inheritance to anonymously assist the sick and needy. Although he left gifts down chimneys at night, a few found out he was behind the generosity. Nicholas begged for them to keep it a secret because he didn’t want the attention on himself. He became known as the protector of children and sailors before his death on December 6, 343.

Over the years, stories from Nicholas’s life spread and his feast day, December 6, was considered a lucky day to make large purchases or get married. In the Middle Ages, French nuns began leaving pouches of coins, food, and treats in the homes of the needy at night. When asked where these gifts came from, the nuns would simply say “it must have been Saint Nicholas.” This inspired the anonymous gift giving as well as the carols.


By the Renaissance, Nicholas was the most popular saint in Europe, particularly in Holland. There he was known as Sinter Klaas, a shortened form of Sint Nokolaas, which was Dutch for Saint Nicholas. Soon it became a tradition for children to set their shoes by the hearth on the evening before his celebration. During the night, they believed he would fill them with small treats of nuts and fruit. When the Dutch settled in the New World, they brought their customs with them, including visits from Sinter Klaas. New York newspapers began reporting on these Dutch celebrations in 1773, making Saint Nicholas Day more widely known. Washington Irving further popularized Nicholas in 1809 when he referred to him as the patron Saint of New York in one of his books.

An 1822 poem changed the image of Saint Nicholas in the US. The common title comes from the first line: “’Twas the night before Christmas.” This poem introduced us to flying reindeer and a red-clad driver able to slide down chimneys effortlessly. Santa Claus, as he became popularly known, filled stockings, rather than shoes, with gifts. Artist Thomas Nast is often credited with creating the modern image of Santa Claus with his 1863 Harper’s Weekly illustration.

Stores began to include Santa in Christmas advertisements in the 1800s, with some offering children a chance to see Santa Claus in person. When the Salvation Army needed money to provide Christmas meals to needy families, they hired unemployed men to dress as Santa to collect donations.

US #1472 – the first US stamp to picture Santa


Russia #6106a – The bottom right stamp pictures St. Nicholas

Some other countries celebrate Saint Nicholas Day on December 5 or December 19. Many countries have different figures that bring children gifts. Germany has Kris Kringle, an angel that accompanies Saint Nicholas. Scandinavia celebrates the elf Jultomten, who brings gifts in a sleigh led by goats.



The English have Father Christmas and in France, Pere Noel leaves gifts in children’s shoes. In Russia, an elderly woman named Babushka leaves children gifts in the hopes that one is baby Jesus. According to Russian stories, she intentionally gave the three wise men incorrect directions to Bethlehem and gives these gifts to make up for her bad deed. In Italy a nice witch named La Befana rides a broomstick to deliver toys to children.

 Source: Mystic Stamp Co.


Music

John Lennon



US #5312-15 from the Music Icons Series 

John Winston Lennon was born on October 9, 1940, in Liverpool, England, during a German bombing raid. Lennon rarely saw his father, a sea merchant who was often away for extended periods. His mother struggled to raise him on her own, so he spent much of his childhood living with his aunt Mimi. Because of this, Lennon rarely acknowledged the authority of his friends’ parents, and was known for his rebellious streak. At school, Lennon was the class clown and “on the road to failure,” according to one teacher. However, he enjoyed art and produced his own school magazine, The Daily Howl. Outside of school, he expanded his world view through stamp collecting.

 


Azerbaijan #546 pictures Lennon and one of his famous doodles.

Lennon had a love of music from an early age and started his first band, the Quarrymen, when he was 15. By the time he was 18, he wrote his first song, “Hello Little Girl.” Despite his dreams of becoming a musician, Lennon went to art school, but was kicked out before his final year. Over the next few years, Lennon met Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, and they became The Beatles in 1960.

In 1962, Brian Epstein became the group’s manager and arranged a recording session.  At that first session in the studio, The Beatles recorded an entire album in less than 10 hours, despite Lennon suffering from a severe cold.  Called Please Please Me, the album was a big hit in Great Britain.  Please Please Me also led to an invitation to appear on The Ed Sullivan Show.


US #3188o – from the Celebrate the Century Series

Lennon and McCartney quickly became one of the most successful songwriting teams in history, penning about 180 songs together – most of The Beatles’s catalog. By 1963, Beatlemania had consumed the UK, and a year later, The Beatles invaded America. The Beatles recorded 22 number one hits from 1963 to 1969. In an eight-year run, the band released thirteen albums. The Beatles are widely credited with revolutionizing the sound and style of rock ‘n’ roll music and pushing the boundaries of musical creativity. 


St. Vincent #2207 – Stamp sheet picturing Lennon through the years

Lennon soon became disillusioned with live performances. He worried no one could hear the music over the screaming fans. In 1966, they stopped touring and focused on writing, recording, and making movies. Amid artistic differences, The Beatles embarked on solo projects and parted ways in 1970. Though their friendships were strained, Lennon would later say “I still love those guys. The Beatles are over, but John, Paul, George, and Ringo go on.”

After the split Lennon collaborated with his wife Yoko Ono, and together they took up a number of activist causes. Most notably, they opposed the Vietnam War and held a “Bed-In for Peace” in protest. Lennon then recorded “Give Peace a Chance,” which became an anti-war anthem. Two years later, he released “Imagine,” another anti-war song and his most famous release after leaving the Beatles.


St. Vincent #1503 also shows Lennon through the years

Lennon’s activism worried President Nixon, who feared the anti-war activities could cost him reelection. So he had the FBI follow Lennon and attempted to have him deported. After Nixon resigned, the deportation order was overturned, and Lennon received a green card.

After taking a five-year hiatus to raise his son Sean, Lennon returned to music in 1980. His final album reflected the contentment he found in his stable family life. Then, on December 8, 1980, his life was cut short by an unstable fan, Mark David Chapman. Chapman had been a Beatles fan, but grew angry at Lennon for his lavish lifestyle. Chapman was inspired by Holden Caulfield from The Catcher in the Rye to kill “phonies.” Lennon had signed a copy of his album Double Fantasy for Chapman hours earlier. Memorials were then held across the globe as the world said goodbye to one of the most influential musicians ever known.


Item #M6224 –  mint sheets honoring John Lennon

Over the course of his 23-year career, Lennon had 25 number one singles in the US. Fittingly, Lennon received a number of honors, including his posthumous induction into the Songwriters and Rock ‘n’ Roll Halls of Fame. Today, he is remembered as a rock icon and one of the greatest singers of all time.

Source : Mystic Stamp Co.


Stories Behind Stamps



Italy -1933 Balbo Triptych

 



The Balbo Triptych stamps of 1933 from Italy are a lesser-known worldwide item. The stamp received an eye-catching price at Harmers Auctions in Lugano, Switzerland, on November 14 and 15, 2014.

Gen. Italo Balbo was a significant actor in Italy's fascist administration, orchestrating the 1922 March on Rome, but he eventually opposed anti-Jewish racial legislation and the partnership with Hitler. Balbo founded the Italian Royal Air Force in the 1920s. To promote Italy's aviation might, he led a squadron of seaplanes on a trans-Atlantic voyage to the Century of Progress exposition in Chicago in the summer of 1933.
 

To celebrate the flight, Italy printed two se-tenant triptychs, which included a registered air express label, a standard postage stamp, and an airmail stamp. For Balbo's return journey, 500 44.75-lira airmail stamps were overprinted with "Volo di Ritorno/New York-Roma".

A mint, never-hinged return-flight triptych in the Harmers sale sold for the equivalent of $24,400.
 

Reference : https://www.mintageworld.com/media/detail/8566-1933-balbo-triptych-of-italy/

 -Nisarg Sutaria : email : nisargsutaria78@gmail.com



Thematics

MAJESTIC WORLD OF AVIAN PHILATELY










Kiwi Birds – The Flightless Wonders 




Kiwi birds, belonging to the family Apterygidae, are small, flightless, and unique to New Zealand. Known for their round, feathery bodies, tiny wings, and long, slender bills, they are nocturnal birds with poor vision but an excellent sense of smell—a rarity in birds. They have loose, hair-like feathers and rely heavily on their sense of smell and strong legs to survive in forested and shrub land habitats.


 

 

Kiwis are iconic in New Zealand, symbolizing the country's natural heritage and uniqueness. Ostriches, emus, cassowaries, rheas, and kiwis can't fly. Unlike most birds, their flat breastbones lack the keel that anchors the strong pectoral muscles required for flight. The kiwi has no tail but does have very strong, muscular legs, which make up about a third of the bird's total body weight, that are used for running and fighting. Four toes (other ratites have only two or three) on each thick foot allow the flightless bird to pad silently through the forest in search of food.


Kiwi eggs are huge. On average they weigh in around 440gm which is approximately 20% of the average weight of an adult female Northland brown kiwi. About 60% of the egg is yolk (250gm) making them one of the richest eggs in the bird world. While running, It can reach speeds of 12mph, faster than an average human. Kiwi can live for between 25 and 50 years.

Kiwis are near blind. The eye has small specializations for a nocturnal lifestyle, but kiwi relies more heavily on their other senses (auditory, olfactory, and somatosensory system). The sight of the kiwi is so underdeveloped that blind specimens have been observed in nature, showing how little, they rely on sight for survival and foraging. Kiwi are nocturnal, yet their eyesight is very poor when compared to other nocturnal birds. They sleep in their burrow during the day and use their excellent sense of smell and touch to navigate in the dark.
 

Kiwi can get all the water they need from their food. In fact, juicy earthworms are 85% water! This adaptation means they can live in particularly dry places such as Kapiti Island. Being nocturnal also helps because they don't get hot, bothered, and dried out by the sun.

Unique Facts:

·       Kiwi chicks hatch fully feathered and independent

Kiwi chicks hatch fully-feathered and independent, which is very unusual for a bird. Adult kiwis don’t need to feed their young as they are born with nutritious yolk sacs attached to their bellies. This yolk sustains the chicks for their first 10 days of life – after that they are ready to forage for their own food.

Despite being able to fend for themselves, some young kiwi will stick around their parents' territory for up to a year or more. The Stewart Island tokoeka and rowi can stay with their parents for several years, helping to raise their siblings.

·       Only about 5% of kiwi chicks hatched in the wild survive

Roughly 90% of kiwi chicks born in the wild die within six months, with around 70% killed by predators such as stoats and cats. Losing this many kiwi chicks means unmanaged populations are declining by around 3% every year. Without the work of the National Kiwi Hatchery Aotearoa and other organizations around New Zealand, we could lose all wild brown kiwi within two generations.

 

The symbolic nature of kiwi birds and their status as a tāonga (treasure) mean they have become a flagship species for conservation efforts in New Zealand.

In an inspiring story of community action, community and iwi-led groups around the country have pulled together to help protect the kiwi. An area of 230,000 hectares is actively protected by ordinary New Zealanders, an area that is close to the amount of kiwi conservation land protected by the Department of Conservation (DOC). The protected areas include predator-free islands, fenced predator-free zones, and closely managed wild kiwi populations. 

·       The little spotted kiwi went from just 5 individuals to around 1,200

The little spotted kiwi is one of New Zealand's most impressive conservation success stories. One of the earliest kiwi sanctuaries, or kōhanga, to be established in New Zealand was on Kāpiti Island. The last five little spotted kiwi were placed on the island in the early 20th century. This conservation initiative was so successful that there are now more than 1,200 birds on Kāpiti Island. More than 600 chicks have been moved from the island to other kiwi habitats around the country.

Although the little spotted kiwi is extinct on mainland New Zealand, Kāpiti Island and other conservation areas have ensured that this small bird has a future.



 Biological Classification:

  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Aves
  • Order: Apterygiformes
  • Family: Apterygidae
  • Genus: Apteryx

Kiwi Bird Species:

There are five distinct species of kiwi, each with its own unique characteristics and geographical distribution within New Zealand.

 

1. Southern Brown Kiwi (Apteryx australis); VU (Vulnerable )

The largest of New Zealand’s kiwis. A reddish to dark brown kiwi with brown to black streaking. Inhabits native forest, tussock grassland, and neighboring farmland. Mostly nocturnal, with some day foraging observed on Stewart Island and certain locations in Fiordland. Restricted to the mountains near Haast, Fiordland, Stewart Island, and sanctuaries. Foraging produces clear audible sniffling. Males give a series of clear rising whistles while females give a harsh throaty wail. Both sexes repeat their call many times. Could be confused with Weka by voice and shape; look for the kiwi’s much longer bill and lack of tail, and listen for its multisyllabic call.

  • Also Known As: Tokoeka
  • Distribution: Found in the South Island of New Zealand, mainly in Fiordland and Stewart Island.
  • Size: Around 45-55 cm in length; weight varies, with females averaging 2.4 kg and males around 1.8 kg.
  • Appearance: Has a shaggy brown plumage with a reddish tinge.
  • Habitat: Forests and subalpine scrub; adaptable to various environments.
  • Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on invertebrates, seeds, fruits, and small amphibians.
  • Conservation Status: Vulnerable due to habitat loss and predation by invasive species.

 



  ,    2. North Island Brown Kiwi (Apteryx mantelli) ; VU (Vulnerable )

A large, dark grayish brown kiwi with reddish brown streaking. The only kiwi found in the wild on the mainland of New Zealand’s North Island. Found in both native and exotic forest, scrub, and neighboring farmland. More often heard than seen. Male call is a series of clear rising whistles. Female call is a harsh throaty wail. Both sexes repeat their call many times. Often heard at night foraging as it sniffs loudly, tapping the ground for invertebrates. Could be confused with Weka by voice and shape; look for the kiwi’s much longer bill and lack of tail, and listen for its multisyllabic call.

  • Also Known As: Kiwi of the North Island
  • Distribution: North Island, especially in Northland, Coromandel, and the central and eastern areas.
  • Size: Similar to the Southern Brown Kiwi, with females reaching around 2.8 kg and males around 2.2 kg.
  • Appearance: Has a uniform brown color with fine black streaks.
  • Habitat: Forests, scrublands, and pastures; can adapt well to modified environments.
  • Diet: Feeds on earthworms, beetles, insect larvae, and other invertebrates.
  • Conservation Status: Endangered, but protected in managed areas and breeding programs.
  •  



3. Okarito Kiwi (Apteryx rowi); VU (Vulnerable )

A large, dark grayish brown kiwi with brownish streaking, often showing white patches on face. Restricted to native forest near Okarito in New Zealand, with small populations on predator-free Mana, Blumine, and Motuara islands. Often heard at night foraging as it sniffs loudly, tapping the ground for invertebrates. Male call is a series of clear rising whistles. Female call is a harsh throaty wail. Both sexes repeat their call many times, and sometimes call simultaneously. Could be confused with Weka by voice and shape; look for the kiwi’s much longer bill and lack of tail, and listen for its multisyllabic call.
Also Known As: Rowi

Distribution: Endemic to Okarito Forest on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island.
Size: One of the rarer and smaller kiwi species, females weigh around 2.2 kg and males around 1.6 kg.
Appearance: Light brown with a grayish tinge and soft, shaggy feathers.
Habitat: Primarily dense, temperate forests.
Diet: Invertebrates and plant matter, using its bill to probe into soil and leaf litter.

Conservation Status: Critically endangered, with a population of only a few hundred birds.



4. Little Spotted Kiwi (Apteryx owenii) ; NT (Near Threatened)

New Zealand’s smallest kiwi species. Light grayish brown with white horizontal banding or “spotting” along the length of the body. Restricted to offshore predator-free island sanctuaries and to the mainland Zealandia sanctuary in Wellington. More often heard than seen, including loud sniffling as it forages for invertebrates. Male produces a series of burry, rising high-pitched whistles. Female has a lower ascending burry whistle. Both sexes repeat their call many times, often duetting. Could be confused with Weka by voice and shape; look for the kiwi’s much longer bill and lack of tail, and listen for its multisyllabic call.


Also Known As: Kiwi Pukupuku
Distribution: Mostly confined to offshore islands, such as Kapiti Island, though they have been introduced to a few mainland sanctuaries.
Size: The smallest kiwi species, weighing around 0.9 to 1.3 kg.
Appearance: Small, with pale, grayish-brown plumage and faint white spots.
Habitat: Dense forests and shrublands, primarily on predator-free islands.
Diet: Earthworms, insects, and occasionally berries.

Conservation Status: Near threatened, as it relies on predator-free habitats for survival.

 


5. Great Spotted Kiwi (Apteryx maxima); VU (Vulnerable )

Large, light grayish brown kiwi with white horizontal banding or mottling along the length of the body. Restricted to the native forests, scrubland, and upland tussock grasslands of the northwestern South Island of New Zealand. More often heard than seen, including loud sniffling as it forages at night for invertebrates. Male produces a series of burry, rising high-pitched whistles. Female has a lower ascending burry whistle. Pairs often duet. Could be confused with Weka by voice and shape; look for the kiwi’s much longer bill and lack of tail, and listen for its multisyllabic call.

Also Known As: Roroa
Distribution: Primarily found in higher-altitude regions of the South Island, especially in the northwestern parts and the Southern Alps.
Size: The largest kiwi species, females can weigh up to 3.3 kg and males around 2.4 kg.
Appearance: Grayish-brown feathers with lighter streaks and a spotted pattern.
Habitat: High-altitude forests, subalpine scrub, and tussock grasslands.
Diet: Primarily earthworms, beetles, larvae, and small invertebrates.
Conservation Status: Vulnerable, as it faces habitat loss and predation threats.




Unique Traits and Behaviors:

Flightlessness: Kiwis have tiny, non-functional wings that do not allow for flight, as their sternum lacks the keel needed for muscle attachment in flighted birds.

Egg-Laying: Kiwi eggs are among the largest relative to body size in birds. A female kiwi can lay an egg up to 20% of her body size.

Lifespan: Kiwis can live up to 50 years, making them one of the longest-living birds.

Predators and Threats: Introduced mammals like stoats, dogs, and cats are major threats to kiwi populations. Habitat destruction further endangers them.

Conservation Efforts:

Kiwi are being driven to extinction by three main threats: predators, lost habitat, and fragmented kiwi populations. Kiwi have few defences against introduced predators like stoats and ferrets, and their native forest habitat has been dramatically reduced to make way for human habitation and farmland. Experts estimate there are around 68,000 kiwi birds left in the wild, but that number is decreasing by 2 per cent every year – or roughly 20 kiwis every week – with both natural and manufactured threats reducing the population that seeks safety in seclusion.

Numerous conservation initiatives, including predator control, habitat restoration, and captive breeding programs, have been established to protect and restore kiwi populations. Programs like "Kiwis for Kiwi" are dedicated to increasing awareness and fostering community involvement in kiwi conservation.

-Capt Vijay Wadhwa : email : vicks552000@gmail.com


New Issues from other countries

Armenia

5 December 2024 :  2025 - Lunar Year of Snake



Lunar New Year

On December 5th, 2024, one postage stamp dedicated to the theme “Lunar New Year” has been put into circulation.The postage stamp with the nominal value of 500 AMD depicts the Snake, which is a symbol of the Lunar New Year 2025. The postage stamp also depicts the inscription “snake” in the form of a hieroglyph. The postage stamp depicts the inscription “LUNAR NEW YEAR” in Armenian and English languages. The postage stamp has a unique format, the image of the Snake and hieroglyph are embossed with golden foil.

Bosnia and Herzegovina - Republic of Srpska

2 December 2024 : 225 Years of Birth of Alexander Pushkin





225 Years Since the Birth of Alexander Pushkin

Alexander Pushkin, often called the "Father of Russian Literature," was born on June 6, 1799. This year marks 225 yearssince his birth. Pushkin is celebrated for his poetry, plays, and novels, including works like Eugene Onegin and The Bronze Horseman. His writing shaped modern Russian language and literature, making him one of Russia's most beloved cultural icons.

Finland

6 November 2024 : Christmas


Iraq

4 December 2024 : Prophet Mohammed Birth


4 December 2024 : 150 Years of the UPU



Latvia

 22 November 2024 : Christmas

 

3 December 2024 : Airport Riga


50th Anniversary of The Airport Riga

Riga International Airport (RIX) is celebrating its 50th anniversary in December 2024. This milestone will be marked by events showcasing the airport’s growth and its role as the largest aviation hub in the Baltic States. Celebrations include a special "RIX50" music and light performance by renowned Latvian composer Rihards Zaļupe, along with awards recognizing the contributions of partners and employees. These festivities coincide with broader discussions at the Riga Aviation Forum about the future of aviation in the region​.

Lithuania


Holy Christmas and New Year

The stamps dedicated to the major holidays of the year are decorated with straw gardens. In 2023 this unique cultural phenomenon was entered into the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Malta

4 December 2024 : Christmas


In the Maltese Islands, the Christmas season is perhaps various activities are held in the lead-up to Christmas Day which, on 25th December, marks the birth of Jesus Christ. It is the time of the year when people come together to share joy, also by exchanging gifts and charitable expressions of solidarity. Christmas is a worldwide festive celebration that is both religious and secular. During the festivities, flickering candles are placed on windowsills, wreaths hung on doors, houses decked with colourful decorations, pine trees glitter with fairy lights, carol singers visit homes and town squares, and young children eagerly await the arrival of Father Christmas.

This Christmas, Malta Post is issuing a set of 5 stamps all illustrating traditional celebratory events. The festive stamps each carry a denomination of 0.45 and are intended to reinforce the atmosphere generated by The Nativity.

Two stamps of the set, depict Santa Claus (Saint Nicholas) better known as Father Christmas, depicted as a benevolent old man with a flowing white beard, wearing a red gown and cap. Santa is shown encircled within a traditional Maltese "qagtal-g (Honey-Ring) which is a local ring-shaped sweet pastry with a honey-based filling.

A third stamp bears an illustration of Baby Jesus with a lamb in His arms, strengthening the Christmas message that Jesus is the "Lamb of God". A fourth stamp shows the Virgin Mary and Child Jesus, an important Christian symbol that portrays the perfect love between mother and child. The fifth stamp is an illustration of two altar boys, one delivering the traditional "Il-Priedka tal-Milied" (The Christmas Sermon) when a young altar-boy delivers the Christmas message during Christmas Eve Holy Mass. All stamp illustrations are the work of Maltese artist Marisa Attard.

Romania

4 December 2024 : Passions of The Queens of Romania



Slovakia

5 December 2024: Postage Stamp Day - Universal Postal Service



Postage Stamp Day - Universal Postal Service

The story behind this postage stamp is linked to an initiative of the Slovak Postcrossing community, which is part of a private Portuguese on-line project. After registration at www.postcrossing.com, users can exchange postcards. The project was launched in 2005 and soon became a global phenomenon. As the owners of the Postcrossing trademark have not allowed Slovak post to use the logotype of the project within the design of a postage stamp intended to present a futuristic aspect of sending letters, and that is why the name of issue was changed on the universal service. Within Slovakia this is understood as the delivery of letters up to 50 g and also includes postcards. Although they are generally classified as slips, i.e. open postal items up to 20 g, this weight class was cancelled in Slovakia in 2006. So, what does it means the universal service?


Pursuant to Section 3 of Act No. 324 on Postal Services, as amended, the universal service is the supply of postal services which ensures a minimum level of satisfaction of the postal service requirements of users in the Slovak Republic. The same rules ensure the public postal network access points and contact points are accessible under the same conditions, at a certain level of quality, an affordable price with at least one collection and delivery every business day. A universal service provider is a postal operator (or operators) who is obliged to provide universal service through a postal licence meeting the conditions and service expectations in line with the Act. The universal postal service includes: the collection and distribution of postal items up to 2 kg in weight, including the collection and distribution of literature for the blind, the collection and distribution of parcels weighing up to 10 kg, the distribution of parcels weighing up to 20 kg, if they were collected abroad by a foreign universal service provider, the collection and distribution of registered and insured items, the collection and distribution of official items, extra services connected with registered postal items according to the rules for international postal service and the return of undelivered postal items to senders.

The universal service also includes registered items. This allows a letter to be sent with a guarantee against the risk of loss, theft or damage. The sender receives a receipt to confirm the item was posted and, if required, that it was delivered to the recipient. The insured item service allows the insurance of an item against loss, theft or damage. The insured sum is specified when an item is posted. The universal service is provided for both domestic and international postal items. The international postal services are provided according to the rules that apply to international postal services.


Philatelic Clubs and Societies

Karnataka Philatelic Society - https://www.karphil.in/index.html

Prayag Philatelic Society - https://prayagphilatelicsociety.org/

Ananthapuri Philatelic Association, Thiruvanthapuram

Baroda Philatelic Society -  http://www.vadophil.org/

Chandigarh Philatelic Club

Deccan Philatelic Society – Pune, Maharashtra

Eastern India Philatelists’ Association -http://www.filacapsule.blogspot.com/

The Hyderabad  Philatelic and Hobbies Society

India Study Circle -  http://www.indiastudycircle.org/

Indian Thematic Society, Ludhiana -http://indianthematicstamps.webs.com/

Ludhiana Philatelic Club

Numismatic & Philatelic Association of Vellore Fort 

http://numismaticphilavellore.site40.net/index.htm

Philatelic Congress of India - http://www.philateliccongressofindia.com/

Philatelic Society of Rajasthan, Jaipur

Philatelic Society of India , Mumbai : http://www.psi1897.com/

Orissa Philatelic Association, Mail id-: orissaphilatelic@gmail.com

Rainbow Stamp Club -http://rainbowstampclub.blogspot.com/

Rajkot Philatelic Society – Rajkot, Gujarat

Gujarat Philatelic Association - Ahmedabad

South India Philatelists Association -  http://www.sipa.net.in/

The Army Philatelic Society, Pune

Stamps of India – http://www.stampsofindia.com


Blogs & Websites

Philatelic Congress of India

Indian Philately Digest

Stamps of India

Rainbow Stamp News

Se-tenant Stamps of India

Flags & Stamps

Europa stamps

Welcome to Indian Philately

Blogs by Kumar Biswas

The Philatelist

Ship Theme Gallery

Echo’s Phila House

Prayag Philatelic Society


RAINBOW STAMP CLUB

This is a blog of e-Stamp Club www.rainbowstampclub.blogspot.com  The idea of this blog is to extend the philatelic fraternity to all corners of the world. Readers may write about themselves with their collecting interests and share new ideas with other philatelists.  New Posts on recent issues, news on stamp activities, and Contributions by members are published every day on this blog. Readers may also express their views on any philatelic matter which will be published under Club News at Rainbow Stamp Cub Blog. Philatelic Clubs and Societies may also send brief write ups. Readers may send reports on new issues, special covers, cancellations & philatelic activities in their area for inclusion in this Blog. - Editor

Current Philatelic Magazines – Newsletters

-VADOPHIL, Editor - Prashant Pandya &TimirShah and published by Baroda Philatelic Society, Vadodara. Website -http://www.vadophil.org/ 


-Ananthpuri Stamp Bulletin - Monthly e -stamp bulletin of Anathapuri Philatelic Association,
 Thiruvananthapuram. Editor - Mohanachandran Nair

-Journal of the Army Philatelic Society

-India Post – Quarterly Journal of the India Study Circle publishes original articles submitted by members of ISC. 

-Deccan Philatelist edited by Dr Anjali Dutta email :
dranjalidutta0303@gmail.com from Deccan Philatelic Society, Pune.

-The Hyderabad Philatelist from Hyderabad Philatelic and Hobbies Society Editor – Shri Prakash Agrawal 

-SIPA Bulletin issued by South India Philatelists’ Association
 

-The Fila Capsule issued by Eastern India Philatelists' Association, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Editor - Dr Bibhudutta Mishra

Acknowledgment

- Ananthapuri Stamp Bulletin December 2024 issue edited by Mohanachandran Nair:  email : apa.tvpm@gmail.com

- Judaica Thematic Society, UK .  Society Newsletter December 2024 edited by Gary Goodman email :  judaicathematicsociety@talktalk.net 

-The Fila Capsule September-October 2024 issue edited by Dr Bubhudutta Mishra.email : bhanubibhu68@gmail.com

Courtesy - News and Image Resource to this issue :  SIPA, Philately Promoters,  EIPA , Indian Philately, Prayag Philatelic Society Group, Philatelic Exhibitions, Deccan Philatelic Society Whatsapp WOPA  Mystic Stamp Co.;   MB Stamps ; Pan India Pictorial Place Cancellations ;  Pradip Jain – Patna ; Mohammed -Al – Shirwani – Baghda , Iraq Europa Stamps ; Jaagruthi  Adka - Bangalore

 Address for communication:

Jeevan Jyoti, 509, Design Arcade, Chandrabani, Wildlife Institute Road, Dehradun-248001. India . e-mail –    j.jyoti9@gmail.com

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Happy Collecting ……….                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Rainbow Stamp News is edited and published monthly by Jeevan Jyoti from Dehradun    (Uttarakhand ) India for free circulation among philatelists.

 

 

Recent Awards

AMRITPEX 2023 - Silver

CAPE TOWN 2022 - Silver

LONDON 2022 - Silver


INPEX 2019, Mumbai - Silver

CHINA-2019, World Stamp Exhibition, Wuhan - Bronze

INPEX 2017, Mumbai - Large Silver

CHINA 2016 - Bronze

TAIPEI 2015 - Bronze

CG International Philatelic Promotion Award 2014, Germany - ( 4th Position)

INPEX 2013, Mumbai - Vermeil

SHARJAH 2012, Sharjah ( UAE ) - Silver Bronze

IPHLA 2012, Mainz - Germany : Bronze

I
NDIPEX 2011 - World Stamp Exhibition, New Delhi - Bronze

JOBURG 2010 - 26th Asian International Stamp Exhibition, Johannesburg - Silver Bronze

PORTUGAL 2010 - World Stamp Exhibition, Lisbon - Bronze

Hong Kong 2009 -23rd Asian International Stamp Exhibition, Hong Kong - Silver Bronze

About Me

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Participated in different philatelic exhibitions Wrote for philately column in The Pioneer and worked as sub-editor for U-Phil Times published from United Philatelists, Kanpur.Did Schooling from Kanpur Vidya Mandir and Post Graduation in Botany from A.N.D. College Kanpur.

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