Valentine's Day Greetings
Dehradun January 2025 Vol. XVIII Issue No. 205
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
Dear Reader,
I am pleased to release February 2025 issue of Rainbow Stamp News. It is
my pleasure to publish memorable experiences of a philatelic exhibition by
noted philatelist, Dinesh Chandra Sharma in this issue. Hope readers would enjoy
this section. I welcome readers to send their memorable philatelic experiences for
publication. It is not just the memory but a detailed depiction and personal
experience of the event through the eyes of the philatelist…These experiences
when shared with other philatelists, become a philatelic treat for all….
February is the Month of Love with beautiful issue of stamps for
Valentine’s Day from different postal administrations. Collect these beautiful
stamps and make your collection wonderful and do not forget to gift few of
these beautiful stamps to your loved ones!
This is all for this month. More in the next issue. Happy Collecting!
Contents
·Editorial
· From the Desk of
Naresh Agrawal
· Recent Indian Issues
· In the News
. Philatelic Memories and Experiences
. Book Review
· Specialized Section
· Beginners’ Section
. Stories Behind
Stamps
· Thematics
. New Issues from
Other Countries
· Philatelic Clubs and
Society
· Blogs and Websites
on Philately
· Current Philatelic Magazines and Newsletters
PARTICIPANTS IN LITERATURE CLASS : LET’S BE TRUE AND
ORIGINAL
Exhibiting in philatelic literature class appears to be easy because presently it is being encouraged by the organizers and philatelic promoters but in fact, it is not that easy because philatelic literature is study which is supposed to be original, well in depth researched, skill fully developed, carefully treated, technically sound, nicely produced and well-presented adhering to the set parameters, norm, rules and regulations.
Well, as I remember, in one
of my previous articles, I had mentioned about the increasing interest of
philatelists in Literature class. The reason may be that philatelic promoters have
started encouraging Literature Class in exhibitions at all levels. The
purpose of such encouragement to philatelists to participate in philatelic
literature competition class is to encourage, support, evaluate, and improve
philatelic publications both print or electronic, regardless of length or
method of presentation and distribution. The other purpose is also to collect,
preserve and present the social history, development of civilization in all
parts of the world and also the postal history and also to put before the
readers the happenings of and in the philatelic field. Such encouragement not
only helps in recognition of efforts of participant but help philatelists to
get their literature and other philatelic exhibits a better and well researched
shape. From literature point of view the feedback received through these
exhibits helps authors and editors to produce an even better product to help in
giving better satisfaction to philatelists and promote and develop philately in
better way in the time to come.
Apart from the basic reason
discussed above, we shall try to analyse other reasons behind this growing
interest and also the increasing participation in Literature Class in
philatelic exhibitions.
“Philately for satisfaction
and relaxation” is the old quote which hardly has any practical value today.
“Philately for awards” if I say so, should be the better quote when I look on
to the mind set of philatelists who intend to exhibit in philatelic completions
today. And this participation has a strong intention and well, if not lust, to
get award only. Today time is short with people, aspirations are high, short
term enjoyment and relaxation have become way of life. And so is with the
philatelists and exhibitors who too want to participate in short time with
minimum efforts. Looking in to other classes of philately where every piece of
stamp or philatelic item needs rich study and to prepare an award-winning
exhibit requires lot of involvement, research, hard work to prepare an exhibit.
In comparison, what I see, it is easier to get award in Literature Class today.
In the last few years
various new books, periodicals, journals, newsletters and other philatelic
literature items have emerged in huge numbers in the philatelic field and most
of these are being produced to get placed in Literature class of philatelic exhibitions
and further are being awarded appreciably also. This serves the very purpose of
the participating philatelists.
We must appreciate one
thing that an original and true literary work is outcome of in-depth research
and very hard work. Originality is the
aspect of created or invented work that distinguish it from reproductions,
clones, forgeries, or substantially derivative works. Literature is not just a work which a philatelic writer produces but
it is the work which informative and the one preserved for the
generations to come as historical document or collection.
When we
look at the normal components of adjudication of a literature class exhibit, we
see that in normal practice the marks allotted to different assessing
parameters are:
Treatment (of contents) or “Authorship and Editorship”
— 30%
Originality, Significance,
and Research — 50%
Technical Matters — 15%
Production — 5%
It is clearly evident that
the judging has main concern on treatment, originality, significance and research
having almost 80 marks. This is where our above discussion focuses. How many
literary works, published through print media or electronic media adhere
genuinely to the above requirements? How many philatelic writers truly write
from their own brains, wisdom and intelligence? How much hard work is done by a
participant of this class before preparing his exhibit?
In today’s scenario there is huge philatelic literary work done in different field of philately. Preparing catalogues, periodicals, journals, newsletters, articles, books and articles related to different fields of philately etc. Writing a book in philately on some subject of philatelic interest used to take years in the past but today with the help of Internet and Artificial intelligence; books are written not in months but in few days’ time. Publishing of course has become easy. Plenty of sales platforms too have emerged. In fact, the search required to do is done just to search related information on net which is very handy. Hence, the book writing is one of the simplest ways today because it is not original, poorly treated and developed, no research done and hence not original. I understand jury needs to check this aspect carefully before allotting marks.
Well,
having said and discussed this, I never mean to demean the efforts done by
participants. Whatever they do, to a big extent it is helpful for philatelists
but my only contention is that they should be original, have their own
efforts put in and should be original research oriented. I understand a very
good practice of getting the exhibits published in form of book is prevailing
today. Very good idea to preserve lifelong efforts to serve philatelists. But a
publication, say book with good number of images but poorly treated and
developed, with no appropriate research, lacking originality not supported by
quality text make such publication poor. Readers might not appreciate this.
Yes, such publication today might get an award in philatelic exhibition but it
can never help development of philately.
While I
appreciate the efforts of such philatelists, I most humbly appeal them to do
some hard work in research, in treatment and development and to be original.
Awards will come, certainly come. They will enjoy reading their own publication
again and again.
-Naresh Agrawal, Bilaspur (C.G.) email nareshkumar1992@yahoo.co.in
Recent Indian Issues
1 December 2024 : 75 Years of UNICEF with India
15 December 2024 : 200th Birth
Anniversary of Maharshi Dayananda Saraswati- Rs 5
15 December 2024 : Centenary of Tansen Samaroh – Rs 5
25 December 2024 : Atal
Bihari Vajpayee Birth Centenary - Rs 5
25 December 2024 :
2800th Nirvan Kalyanak of Bhagwan Parshvanath- Rs 5
30 December 2024 : 50 Years of NIMHANS – Rs 5
31 December 2024 : Veer Meghmaya – Rs 5
28 January 2025 : Peasant
Uprising of Patharughat – 1891 – Rs 5
New Special Covers
20 January 2025 Guru Ka Langar , Patma
22 January 2025 : Shri Panchayati Akhara , Prayagraj
29 January 2025 : Mahakumbh : Mauni Amavasya ,
Prayagraj
3 February 2025 : Mahakumbh : Kalpvas Basant Panchami
, Prayagraj
TANAPEX
2025 Special Covers
29 January 2025 : Thaikkal Rattan Craft
29 January 2025: Manapparai Murukku
29 January 2025: TANAPEX 2025
29 January 2025: East India Leather
30 January 2025 : Sholavandhan Betel Leaf
30 January 2025 : Vellode Bird Sanctuary
30 January 2025 : Authoor Betel Leaf
New Special Cancellations
1. 29 January 2025: Divya Bhavya and Digital Maha Kumbh
2. 4 February 2025 : World Cancer Day
TANAPEX 2025
New Picture Postcards
Sets of picture postcards released by PSOI under the aegis of India Post, Utter Pradesh at Prayagraj during the celebration of Mahakumbh 2025.
A picture postcard to observe World Cancer Day duly
decorated with special cancellation was released by PSOI under the aegis of
India Post Karnataka circle on 4 February 2025.
Postcard
Calendar 2025
Places of
Worship through Indian Stamps
In The News
Forthcoming Stamp Exhibitions
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 Update
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/
EuroPhilex Birmingham 2025
European Philatelic
Exhibition 7-11 May 2025
Literature Entry Deadline: 31 March 2025
Visit : https://europhilex2025.co.uk/
AMSIPEX- 2025
1st International Virtual Aerophilatelic and
Astrophilatelic Exhibition (15-23 February 2025)
Visit : www.amsipex.com
AMSIPEX-25
Webinar
18
February 2025, World Air Mail Day
PHILAKOREA 2025 Specialised World Stamp Championship
Exhibition
From 17 - 21 September, 2025
At COEX Le West Convention Center in Seoul, Rep. of Korea.
PhilaKorea 2025 with a capacity of 2000 display frames, is
organized by The Philatelic Federation of KOREA under the Patronage of FIP.
Classes available for participation are: Traditional,
Postal History, Postal Stationery, Aerophilately, Astrophilately, Thematic,
Maximaphily, Revenues, Open Philately, Picture Postcards, One Frame, and
Philatelic Literature. Plus, a new Experimental, Class 12 -II, for 2 or 3
Frames exhibits.
Detailed rules of exhibition (IREX) and Exhibit Application
Forms are available for download at https://philakorea2025.kr
The duly filled Form along with a copy of the first page of
the exhibit should be submitted by
January 25, 2025,
To
the National Commissioner for India,
KAPIL GOGRI
Email : kapilg25@hotmail.com WhatsApp +91.98211.11140
OR CC. to the Apprentice National Commissioner for India,
Meena Mutha :Email meenu55@gmail.com
News from Philatelists and Philatelic Societies
TANAPEX 2025 : State Level Philatelic Exhibition: 29 January – 1 February 2025: Chennai
Glimpses
Glimpses of MAHAPEX 2025, Mumbai
MAHAPEX 2025
Maharashtra State Level Philatelic Exhibition,
Department of Posts, Government of India was held at the World Trade Centre,
Mumbai from 22-25 January 2025.
Mahakunbh 2025
- Prayagraj Special Cover
Anatomy
of the cover released on Amrit Snan.
The Special Cover released on Shri Panchayati Akhada Mahanirvani is unique in nature.
1) First cover on a recognised Akhada. This Akhada has the
privilege of taking the first dip in the Sangam during Royal Baths.
2) First cover in India with a cancellation based on Bhagwan
Kapil Mahamuni, who had a great impact on Buddhism & Jainism apart from
being the 'Aradhya dev' of some Akhadas in Hinduism.
3) The front of the image shows the real image of Naga
Sadhus marching towards the ghat before the sunrise with their weapons &
deities on the left and the common people taking bath after all 13 Akhadas have
finished their bath & prayers on the right.
4) First cover in U.P. with an image of the sitting Prime
Minister in the back.
5) The back of the cover also features the newly
constructed railway bridge on R. Ganga, very recently inaugurated by the PM.
6) On the corner is the image of " Alopi Devi / Alop
Shankari " which is a Shaktipeeth in Prayag ( One out of three
shaktipeeths in Prayag).
7) First & only cover released from the temporary post
office Central Mahakumbh Mela P.O. (211020) till date at the temporary 45 day
district of U.P. the " Mahakumbh Mela district ".
- Dr.Aditya Singh , Prayagraj
Special Cover released at Patna
Guru Ka Langar special cover released by Chief Postmaster General Mr. Anil Kumar at Patna GPO on 20 January 2025 to honor the spirit of anchor and the remarkable contribution of the Sikh community. It's a beautiful tradition that continues to thrive in Sikh communities worldwide. Nearly Six Millions (60 lacs) have Langar prasad everyday which is record by any institution in the world.
Takht Harmandir jee Sahib representative were also present
with Philatelist Paramjeet Singh. They are going to set ‘Langar’ alive on 27th
Jan – 1.00 to 2.00 noon at Patna GPO complex for the entire Postal employees of
Bihar Postal Circle at Patna GPO – One thousand (1000) members.
-Pradip Jain, Patna
New Book ‘Ramayana on Stamps’ released……
On the first anniversary of the Prana
Pratishtha of the Ayodhya Shri Ram Temple, the book "RAMAYANA ON
STAMPS" by M Lokeshwara Rao was unveiled at the General Post Office
Philatelic Bureau by Chief Postmaster General, Sri Rajendra Kumar.
The Ramayana is a Sanskrit epic written in India 2,500 years ago as part of the Hindu canon the Smriti. The epic tells the adventures of Lord Rama, an incarnation of the God Vishnu, and his fight against Ravana, the demon king. The Ramayana is a tale of devotion, separation, and reunion and an expression of the eternal battle between good and evil. In general, the epic explores the tenets of human existence and the concept of Dharma—the person’s righteous duty on earth.
“Ramo Vighravan Dharma” means Shri Ram is Dharma incarnate. Maharishi Valmiki called Shri Ram ‘Dharmavigrah’ in the Ramayana, signifying that God incarnated for the welfare of the people. Maharishi Ved Vyas stated that the incarnation of Shri Ram was not just for killing demons but for teaching dharma to humans. Patience, forgiveness, control of mind, selflessness, purity, restraint of senses, wisdom, knowledge, truth, and mercy—these ten characteristics of dharma are properly reflected in the entire conduct of Shri Ram.
The Sage Valmiki is the author of the most popular Sanskrit epic, the Ramayana. The Ramayana is called the Adikavya, the first poetry in classical Sanskrit, and in its present form, it is dated variously by scholars: Thus, it appears that the current form of the Ramayana in proper classical Sanskrit was due to some re-editing accomplished within the Valmiki School of tradition by a later sage. For the world, the Ramayana is an epic composed in Sanskrit by Maharishi Valmiki. It tells the life story of Prabhu Shriram, the Supreme Being who was elevated to the status of the most worshipped Hindu god.
The story of Lord Rama, the seventh Avatar of Lord Vishnu, is a fascinating tale from this ancient Indian epic. The Ramayana narrates the divine incarnation of Lord Rama and his heroic journey. The Valmiki Ramayana is the first classical epic in Sanskrit, and no other book in the world has had such a profound impact on the lives and thoughts of people across many nations, including India. The story of Lord Ram, Sita, his brother Laxman, and Hanuman has found resonance in different parts of the world. “The story of Rama lives in the mind of every Indian.”
The book “Ramayana on Stamps” contains a total of 39 chapters, some important shlokas have been included in the synopsis of each Kanda in the chapter “Ramayana at a Glance,” and additional shlokas are featured in other chapters as well. All details of the Ramayana are provided in the chapter titled “All about Ramayana.” Ayodhya Ram Janmbhoomi stamps are included in a separate chapter. One chapter is dedicated exclusively to “Ram Van Gaman Path on Stamps” (Rama’s Exile Path), where stamps and special covers related to the places Rama visited during his exile are featured. Stamps related to the Ramayana issued by different countries are included in the country-wise chapters of “Ramayana on Stamps.” Quotations taken from the Ramayana are provided in the “Life Lessons of Ramayana” chapter. A separate chapter, titled “Raghupathi Raghava Raja Ram,” is also included at the end of the book. Under the “Nama Ramayanam” chapter, 108 shlokas have been included; Nama Ramayanam is the condensed version of the epic Ramayana. Detailed references are added to the bibliography.
In this modern world filled with complexities and moral dilemmas, the Ramayana highlights the importance of righteousness, truth, and moral integrity as anchor points. The lessons of the Ramayana remain relevant today, just as they were thousands of years ago, as it shows us that the pursuit of truth and ethical conduct is not limited to any one age but is rather universal path towards a better and more enlightened world. This book is valuable to a wide range of stakeholders, including individuals, managers, employers, employees, students, environmentalists, and philatelists. Foreword written by CPMG, Karnataka Circle Sri S, Rajendra Kumar and book is released by Sri S, Rajendra Kumar, CPMG, Karnataka Circle on the occasion of first anniversary of Prana Pratistha of Lord Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
Details
of Book
Book:
“Ramayana on Stamps” Author: Shri M. Lokeswara Rao IFS (Retd.):Year of
Publication: 2025 : Pages: 237, more than 400 colour images : Publisher: Indie
Press: Paper Back: ISBN: 978-93-6045-826-3: MRP: INR 1779 :Contact author:
9436215175, madirajul@gmail.com : 10%
discount on MRP inaugural offer, the price inclusive of registered parcel
Study Group for Europhilex 2025 in Birmingham between 7-11 May
Europhilex 2025 is in Birmingham between 7-11 May and promises to be an outstanding show. I am forming a group of Philatelists interested in attending the event.
Schedule:
Arrive in London on Monday 5 May (free day)
London – Tuesday 6 May – Visit Postal Museum, Mail Train ride, visit RPSL, Rowland Hill statue and common lunch. Evening train to Birmingham.
Birmingham – Wed-Sat (7-10 May) – attend
Europhilex including the following planned activities
- Club Meetings (prior permission from
respective societies will be needed) – Wed/7th India Study Circle, Thu/8th
Royal Philatelic Society London, Fri/9th British Air Mail Society, Sat/10th
Pakistan Study Circle (?)
- Selected exhibits walk through along with
exhibitor
- Informal dinner and philatelic discussions.
- In depth philatelic introduction of each
person including show & tell, talks etc.
- Plenty of free time to visit dealer stalls,
see exhibits etc.
- Birmingham sightseeing
You need to make your own arrangements for air
tickets, hotel, visa etc.
All persons interested in participating, please connect with me on Private Message via WhatsApp or Email. Piyush Khaitan : Email pk@khaitan.in : Phone +91 98200 19000 (WhataApp only).
Philatelic
Memories and Experiences
Olymphilex – 2000
My most memorable and Special Philatelic Exhibition held in conjunction
with the Sydney Olympic Games
In August 1993 travelling
to Singapore to represent Republic of Nauru at SINGPEX -1993, International
Philatelic Exhibition, I had a stopover in Sydney (my first ever visit). Sydney
was decorated with flags, posters with Olympic Rings as Sydney was one of the
bidders to host the 2000 Olympic Games. I did know that Sydney might be the
next city to host the Olympic Games. I was thrilled just to think if the
Olympics are awarded to Sydney, I may say that I have visited the city going to
host the Olympic Games. Although I visited Sydney few more times later.
On 23rd
September, 1993 the news came that Sydney had been chosen to host the Olympic
Games in 2000. Being an Olympic Philatelist, I was hopeful to participate in
the Olymphilex - a philatelic exhibition that showcases Olympic
collections from around the world. It has been held in conjunction with
the Olympic Games since 1988 Olympics.
In 1999 while attending
(represented Nauru Post) the CHINA -99, World Philatelic Exhibition held at
Beijing, received the invitation to attend the OLYMPHILEX – 2000 from
the President of Organising Committee Mr. Bernard Beston (a good friend since
we met in Fiji in 1995). He became the President of Federation of International
Philately later.
From Left: Late Mr. Rantag
Harris- Director Nauru Post, Mr. Bernard Beston -President of Organising
Committee and myself at the Nauru Post Booth at China -99 World Philatelic
Exhibition, Beijing
I had been participating in
the editions of Olymphilex since the first edition OLYMPHILEX – 1985 held in
1985 at the headquarter of International Olympic Committee Lausanne,
Switzerland. Also I had already participated in the editions of Olymphilex held
in 1988 Seoul Olympics (First time in conjunction of Olympic Games), 1992
Barcelona Olympics and 1996 Atlanta Olympics. I was preparing to send my
exhibit for my participation at OLYMPHILEX – 2000.
Nauru Postal Administration
had chosen me to represent them in OLYMPHILEX – 2000. On the other hand,
my exhibit was also accepted. Therefore, I participated in two categories –
Official as well as in personal capacity. Until that time I had never visited
any Olympic Games.
On 15th
September, 2000 the inauguration of OLYMPHILEX – 2000 took place at the
City Centre, the venue for the exhibition and I was exhilarated when I was
asked to be a part of the inauguration ceremony. Mr. Juan Antonio Samaranch
President of International Olympic Committee along with President of organizing
committee and President of Australian Philatelic Federation and other
dignitaries. I still have the ribbon with five Olympic Colours. What a moment
was that. President Samaranch presented me pin with the Olympic rings.
Part of the opening ceremony of ‘OLYMPHILEX – 2000’. From left in front row Mr. J. A. Samaranch, President of International Olympic Committee, Mr. Bernard Beston, President ‘OLYMPHILEX – 2000’ and Mr. Bernard Doherthy, Commissioner General, ‘OLYMPHILEX – 2000’
With Mr. Knud Mohr- FIP
President and Dr. E.C. Druce from Australia at Nauru Post Booth
1. With late Mr. Shenoy, Mr. Trevor – Nauru Post & Korean representative at Nauru Post Booth
2. With Shahnawaz Husain during the stamp issue by India Post at
Sydney
With Mr. Maurizio Tecardi
-Secretary General FIPO
At Sydney 2000 Olympic
Games, my dream to attend the Olympic Games as well as an Olymphilex came true.
During the stay of 20 days I had a chance to witness the Olympic city with
cultural activities, fire work. I did not have chance to watch any sport event
as I had to work for Nauru Post, but after work it was exciting to watch the
events on very big Panasonic screens among a large gathering at Sydney Harbour,
Darling Harbour and some other parts of the city. An unforgettable great
atmosphere with high Olympic Spirit.
I could see some finest
exhibits on Olympic and Sport Philately. I did this about an hour before the
exhibition’s opening time and after the close of the exhibition. It was
possible because of attending the exhibition as Postal Administration. I really
enjoyed the outstanding exhibits.
When I was in school I read that chess Grandmaster Anatoly Karpov has a collection of Olympic stamps and other philatelic items related to the Olympics and his collection was considered one of the world's most important stamp collections. I just began collecting Olympic Stamps (not seriously) at that time and I used to play chess and followed chess tournaments. Karpov participated at Sydney OLYMPHILEX – 2000. I had seen his impressive exhibit on '1920 and 1924 Olympic Games'. What a coincidence after 25 years we both displayed exhibits in the same exhibition. I think his exhibit was awarded a Vermeil Medal. I was hoping to meet him but he did not visit Sydney. When I went to Moscow in 2001, I tried to meet him but he was travelling.
My exhibit was displayed at Canberra, so I have visited for one day to see the exhibition at Canberra. Since the available space was not enough to display all the exhibits at Sydney venue a part of exhibition along with Olympic memorabilia exhibition were housed at the Australian Mint’s spacious premises in Canberra. The Canberra exhibition was opened two days before and because of it I could visit. I travelled by bus and approximately 300 kilometers were covered in 3 hours.
The Palmares was held on 21st September, 2000. Mr. Samaranch had to attend the plamares but he had to fly back to Spain as he lost his beloved wife. I won a Large Silver Medal and I was expecting it to be received from Mr, Samaranch.
At Palmares of OLYMPHILEX –
2000 held at Race Course. In the photo from left Mr. Maurizio Tecardi
-Secretary General FIPO, Mr. Knud Mohr- FIP President, Mr. Dinesh Sharma and
Dr. E.C. Druce from Australia .
The exhibition was over on
28th September, 2000. I had full day on 29th September to
experience the atmosphere in the day- time and I walked the whole day to
different parts of the city (very limited taxis were in operation to keep the
traffic quite low). On 30th I had my flight to return to Nauru and I
had really tough time as I could not book the call taxi. No one was accepting
to go to airport. Finally, one taxi stopped and I was a bit relieved. The taxi
driver was a Bangladeshi. He told me that there were traffic restrictions due to
the Marathon race. He told me that he saw my desperation and considering me
either from Bangladesh or India, he decided to help. If I had missed my flight
I had to give explanation to my Minister at Nauru, but the kindness of the taxi
driver saved me.
A lot is there to share but
I conclude before it gets boring. Thanks Mrs. Jeevan Jyoti for your kind
request to write my experience of a memorable exhibition I have visited.
Commemorative Coins, Covers
and Stamps Issued
· -To
commemorate the 2000 Olymphilex exhibition, the Royal Australian Mint released
a one-dollar coin.
· -- Special covers and stamps are also issued to commemorate Olymphilex exhibitions.
-Australia Post issued digital stamps (introduced for the first ever time by any postal administration) to commemorate the Australian Gold medalists the next day of the event and every morning 100s of Australians were lined up even before the opening of the Australia Posts booth.
Book
Review
-By M. Lokeswara Rao (IFS Retd.)“Tiny
Treasures: The Science and History Behind the World of Stamps”
-Dr MR Ramesh Kumar
Tiny
Treasures: The Science and History Behind the World of Stamps : Author - Dr
M.R. Ramesh Kumar : Year of Publication – 2025 : Publisher - Notion Press : ISBN
979-8-89632-799-8(Paper Back): ISBN 979-8-89632-792-6(Hard Case) :MRP - Paper
Back: INR 725 : Hard Case: INR 900 :The price inclusive of Registered Parcel
Philately is a hobby which teaches so much and also provides fun and pleasure. A postage stamp is a small piece of paper issued by a post office or an authorized vendor to a customer who pays for ‘postage’, which is the cost for insuring, moving or registering mail. On 1 May 1840, the ‘Penny Black’, the first adhesive postage stamp was issued in the United Kingdom. Within three years postage stamps were introduced in Switzerland, Brazil and the United States. By 1860, nearly 90 countries had issued postage stamps. Stamps are miniature gateways to the world. Every stamp and piece of mail tells a story. It’s a way to explore the world and tell the story of different countries, their diverse history, their colourful cultures, their natural beauty, flora and fauna. Nations have represented themselves and honoured their priorities through stamps. The effectiveness of stamps as tools to engage the public is demonstrated by the enduring popularity of stamp collecting, which began the year after the stamp’s invention. In this Digital and Technological Era, Philately can still bring the good old charm of writing a letter, and sending a Postcard to a friend through Post crossing, looking at the newer technologies gives such as Quick Response (QR) code or Augmented Reality (AR) and crypto stamps too have added the charm in collecting and knowing the stamps and Stamp Collecting in more detail.
There are several books in the market for beginners of stamp collecting. But the book “Tiny Treasures: The Science and History Behind the World of Stamps” written by Dr Ramesh Kumar, is unique one, which gives complete information about stamp collecting. The book guides beginners to choose different themes for collection of stamps.
Dr Ramesh Kumar has written this book in a very easy to read and understanding way and the book takes reader to the journey of
philately and various aspects of philately. The book covers various chapters
like Chapter 1 History of Postage Stamps, Chapter 2 Interest in Philately and
Some Philatelists, Chapter 3 covers Environment theme, Chapter 4 India’s Rich
Cultural Heritage covers, Saints and Poets of India, Personalities of India,
Forts of India, Festivals and Fairs of India, Art, Cinema, Dance, Music and
Paintings of India, Tribes of India, Yoga and Ayurveda, Food and Spices of
India, Handlooms of India, Museums of India, Means of Transport Through the
Ages. Chapter 5 Sports and Games, Chapter 6 Scientists and Scientific
Institutions in India. Chapter 7 Magic of Indian Movies. The book also covers
Countries and their Names on Stamps, Glossary, Philately Quiz, Some
Useful Philatelic Links. It is a must read book for all sections of society especially children.
Specialized Section
Late Dr Satyendra Agrawal was a regular contributor to
Rainbow Stamp News. He wrote more than 100 articles for Rainbow’s Specialized Section.
I am giving a series of some of his very special articles published in earlier
issues of Rainbow long time back. -Editor
POSTS,
you never dreamed of….
Girl child to be posted
This event alerted The US
Post Office Department and on June 13, 1920 it issued new rules, announcing
that children would no longer be accepted as a parcel post. Still two more
incidence of booking of a baby
to the husband who had left her and the
body of a child who had died of natural causes come in light when it was mailed
to an undertaker in Albany, New York. It arrived on November 20, 1922, and
carried no 'return address'. She was buried '...through the kindness of
individuals' under the apt name of 'Parcella Post.'
Even mailing of a young man
also published in early 19th century when to save him
from slavery, Henry “Box” Brown, mailed himself to freedom on March 29, 1849
with the help of a storekeeper in Louisa County, Virginia. He packed himself
into a crate that was 3’x 2’x 2.6’ and labeled “This Side up with Care,” to be
sent to the home of Philadelphia abolitionist James Miller McKim.
With only a small container
of water he journeyed for 27 hours loaded onto a wagon, then to the baggage car
of a train, then another wagon, then a steamboat, then another wagon, then a
second baggage car, then a ferry, then a third railroad car, and finally a
wagon that delivered him to McKim’s house. When the box was opened, Brown stood
up, and passed out.
Chrissie Maclean writes in
his book ‘'The Stornoway I Knew Memories from 1930s to 1950s', published by
Stornoway Historical Society that ‘During the war ... Some unusual parcels went
through the mail then. Often a customer would come in with a large dead hen,
complete with feathers, its legs tied with string to which was attached the
address label. These hens were destined for mainland relatives.’
One more interesting story
related to delivery of unusual item by post born in1916 when construction of
historical building of The Bank of Vernal (or Parcel Post Bank) started
by WH Coltharp. He wanted to use textured bricks to give a modern style to
the facades. Since those bricks were manufactured in Salt Lake City the
delivery cost was enormous, amounting to four times the cost of the material.
Coltharp managed to send
those bricks by USPS, through the standard mail delivery system: bricks were
packaged in 50 pound parcels (7 bricks each), and sent by lots of 40 packages
per day. The total amount exceeded 80,000 bricks.
Again US Postal Regulations
were changed to avoid further exploiting of the service, and a limitation of
200 pounds per day per receiver was introduced. The United States Postmaster
General Albert Sidney Burleson explicitly stated in a letter that "it is
not the intent of the United States Postal Service that buildings be shipped
through the mail".
The United States had a
special rate for "live bees, baby alligators & chicks."
Occasionally ladybugs were also sent by mail.
In December, 1954, the
postmaster in Orlando, Florida, received a chameleon posted from Fostoria Ohio
with request to let him deliver somewhere in the ground as in Orlando was too
cold for his chameleon to live. He also requested for acknowledgement of its
safe arrival which was done happily by the postmaster in following words “I
received your chameleon yesterday and he was immediately released on the post
office grounds. Best wishes for a merry Christmas!”
But can you imagine in your
post-box a field post envelope made of birch bark or letter written on a leaf
attached to it a 7k commemorative the international post charges for a postcard from Yalta, Crimea in the USSR to New York? Apparently, the item caused
some consternation in Crimea as it received the postage-due oval and the
manuscript "T". Both have been subsequently erased
Field post envelope made of birch bark
Posted in July 1928
from Yalta, Crimea in the USSR to New York.
Hundreds of coconuts were
also sent back to U.K. Pacific Ocean, via the mail system. Many tourists paint
a tropical island scene on one side, put the address and stamps on the other
and off they would go.
Examples of booking of many
more strange articles with stamps pasted directly on the booked item with
address written on them also exist. Strangely reports of their safe delivery to
the recipients were also recorded.
Toys
Ball
Bone
Human Mask Glass bottle
Gramophone Record
Delivery of a biscuit that
was sent to an American student away at college in the early 20th century - not
wrapped or packaged in anyway, simply a biscuit with postage and address
somehow affixed was also reported in a magazine. It is said that the
biscuit was being preserved in the University's archives.
And what would be a great
surprise for the receiver and a matter of pride for the postman who got the
opportunity to deliver a rose bud to others Valentine sent per post attached to
a card that was tied to the stem with address and stamps on it. It has
taken three days to get delivered but rose bud was still gracing the stem. What
an efficient US postal system is.
And what will you do with
the wine filled bottle received as an FDC? Not a dream but it happened for an
“Australian Folklore” series of 1983, consisting a set of five se-tanent
stamps issued to commemorate the 107th Anniversary of Birth of C. J. Dennis,
who wrote numerous verses, one of which was the Sentimental Bloke, popularized
in films, stage plays, musicals, records, and radio & TV programs and
depicted on these stamps .Along with regular FDCs, in Auburn, Australia,
the birth place of Dennis, 540 bottles of 1976 vintage port wine were
also used for FDCs on which this set of se-tenant strip of five stamps
were pasted on the obverse and cancelled with the pictorial postmark of Denis
with a Tobacco pipe in his mouth on 7 September 1983.
Se-tenant stamps of five pasted on a 1976 vintage port wine bottle with First Day pictorial cancel of Dennis.(Sorry, bottle is missing)
Beginners’ Section
Love Stamp
US #1475 was issued on this day in 1973.
On
January 26, 1973, the USPS issued its first Love stamp. In 1962, the Post
Office issued its first Christmas stamp after numerous calls for a stamp honouring
the holiday. After the Christmas stamps proved popular, they turned their
attention to a new holiday in the 1970s.
A holiday with a close
connection to greeting cards, Valentine’s Day was a natural choice to receive
its own special stamp. For the design, the USPS turned to artist Robert
Indiana. Indiana had come up with the now famous design in 1958. Then in 1965,
he provided the design for the Museum of Modern Art Christmas card. That card
was the most popular card they ever produced. The following year, Indiana
created his first LOVE sculpture. In the years since the sculpture has been
replicated in different colors and cities all over the country and the world.
The new Love stamp was issued on January 26, 1973, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, “The City of Brotherly Love.” The USPS didn’t call it a Love stamp and didn’t see it as the start of a new series. They called it “A Special Stamp for Someone Special.” They printed more than 320 million stamps. It was generally very popular, though some called it a “Hippie stamp.” When the first-class postage rate was raised the following year, the USPS received many requests to issue the stamp at the new rate, but they didn’t.
Requests
for another Love stamp began to pour into the USPS. Finally, in 1982, they
released a second stamp, with the word Love spelled out in flowers. Two years
later, the third stamp was released. Like the stamp before it, these Love
issues weren’t considered part of a series and were issued in higher quantities
and available for longer lengths of time than standard commemoratives. As the
USPS described it, the stamps were “not just for Valentine’s Day, but for
special occasions throughout the year, such as weddings, birthdays,
anniversaries, and letters to loved ones.”
The second Love stamp issued
in 1982
Love-themed
stamps continued in this way until 1987. That year the USPS officially
announced that they would issue a new Love stamp every year. By the following
year, annual production of Love stamps neared one billion. 1988 also marked an
interesting first. It was that year that the USPS first issued two Love stamps.
One was for the one-ounce first-class rate and the other for the two-ounce
rate. Love stamps had become popular on Wedding invitations, so this gave
couples the opportunity to use matching stamps on their invitations and RSVP
envelopes. In 2006, the USPS issued the first stamps specifically designated
for Weddings.
There wasn’t a
Love stamp in 1989, but there was a Love stamped envelope. This was the first
of a handful of stamped envelopes the USPS would issue in the coming years.
The Love Series continues to be popular today, with both Love and Wedding stamps issued on a regular basis.
Source :
Mystic Stamp Co.
Stories Behind Stamps
France - 10c Bister
10c Bister on yellowish
tete – beche block, issued in 1849
Price : $90,000
-Nisarg Sutaria : email : nisargsutaria78@gmail.com
Thematics
MAJESTIC WORLD OF AVIAN PHILATELY
-Capt.
Vijay Wadhwa
Tinamous
Camouflage Masters with Melodious Calls
Tinamous are a fascinating group of birds belonging to
the family Tinamidae within the order Tinamiformes. Native to
Central and South America, they are among the world's most ancient bird
lineages. Despite their superficial resemblance to game birds like quails and
partridges, tinamous are more closely related to the flightless ratites, such
as ostriches and emus, forming part of the avian superorder Palaeognathae.
Tinamous exhibit a combination of primitive features and adaptations that make
them unique among birds.
Known for their shy behaviour, distinctive calls, and
ecological importance as seed dispersers, they hold a unique place in the avian
world. Among the 47 species of tinamous, a select few, such as the Solitary
Tinamou (Tinamus solitarius), Great Tinamou (Tinamus major),
Cinereous Tinamou (Crypturellus cinereus), and others, have been commemorated
on postage stamps by nations across the globe. These stamps highlight the
significance of these birds, showcasing their beauty and reminding us of their
ecological roles.
Morphological Characteristics
Tinamous are medium-sized, ground-dwelling birds with
a plump, oval-shaped body, short legs, and rounded wings. They exhibit subtle
but beautiful plumage, with earthy tones of brown, grey, and buff, often
patterned with spots, stripes, or mottling. This coloration provides excellent
camouflage against predators.
- Size: Tinamous range in size from the Dwarf Tinamou
(Taoniscus nanus), which measures about 20 cm (8 inches), to the Gray
Tinamou (Tinamus tao), which can reach up to 49 cm (19 inches).
- Beak: Their beaks are short and slightly curved,
adapted for a diet that includes seeds, fruits, and small invertebrates.
Feet: Unlike
many ground birds, tinamous have three forward-facing toes and lack a
functional hind toe (hallux) in most species. This adaptation aids their
terrestrial lifestyle.
Tinamous
occupy a diverse range of habitats, including tropical rainforests, dry
savannas, grasslands, and montane regions. They are widely distributed from
southern Mexico to Patagonia.
Feeding
Habits
Tinamous
are omnivorous, feeding primarily on seeds, fruits, insects, and small animals.
They forage by walking slowly and pecking at the ground or low vegetation.
Vocalization
One of
their most distinctive traits is their melodious calls, which are used for
communication and territorial defence. Their whistles and trills vary by
species and are particularly resonant in forest species.
Reproductive Behaviour
Tinamous
exhibit a unique reproductive strategy:
- Mating System: They are polyandrous, with females laying eggs
for multiple males, each of whom incubates the clutch and cares for the
chicks.
- Nesting: Nests are simple
scrapes in the ground, often hidden among vegetation.
- Eggs: Tinamous lay
glossy, brightly colored eggs, often in shades of green, blue, or purple.
These eggs have a porcelain-like sheen and are among the most striking in
the bird world.
- Chicks: Precocial and
capable of walking and feeding themselves shortly after hatching, the
chicks are cared for by the male parent.
Taxonomy
and Species Diversity
The
family Tinamidae comprises approximately 47 species divided into 9
genera. Below are the key genera and representative species:
1.
Tinamus (Forest Tinamous)
- Large-bodied
species inhabiting dense forests.
- Examples:
- Great Tinamou
(Tinamus major): Found in lowland tropical forests; known for its
haunting calls.
Gray
Tinamou (Tinamus tao): The
largest tinamou species, inhabiting Amazonian rainforests.
2.
Nothocercus (Highland Tinamous)
- Medium-sized
birds adapted to montane forests.
- Examples:
- Highland Tinamou (Nothocercus bonapartei): Found in cloud
forests of the Andes.
- Tawny-breasted Tinamou (Nothocercus julius): Inhabits subtropical
regions.
3.
Crypturellus (Wood Tinamous)
- The most diverse
genus, with small to medium-sized species found in woodlands and forests.
- Examples:
- Little Tinamou
(Crypturellus soui): A shy species common in lowland forests.
- Red-legged Tinamou (Crypturellus erythropus): Recognized by
its distinctive red legs.
4.
Eudromia (Elegant Crested Tinamous)
- Plains-dwelling
species with a distinctive crest.
- Examples:
- Elegant Crested Tinamou (Eudromia elegans): Found in arid
scrublands and grasslands of southern South America.
5.
Nothura (Grassland Tinamous)
- Small tinamous
adapted to open grasslands.
- Examples:
- Spotted Nothura (Nothura maculosa): Common in pastures
and agricultural areas.
6.
Rhynchotus (Red-winged Tinamous)
- Medium-sized
tinamous with striking plumage features.
- Examples:
- Red-winged Tinamou (Rhynchotus rufescens): Found in open
grasslands and savannas.
7.
Taoniscus (Dwarf Tinamou)
- The smallest
tinamou species.
- Example:
- Dwarf Tinamou
(Taoniscus nanus): Endangered due to habitat loss in Brazil’s
Cerrado region.
8.
Nothoprocta (Andean Tinamous)
- Highland species
adapted to rocky, barren terrains.
- Examples:
- Andean Tinamou
(Nothoprocta pentlandii): Found in high-altitude grasslands of the
Andes.
9.
Tinamotis (Puna Tinamous)
- Large-bodied
tinamous of arid regions.
- Example:
Puna
Tinamou (Tinamotis pentlandii):
Adapted to the dry Puna grasslands of South America
Conservation
Status
While
some species like the Little Tinamou are widespread and common, others
face significant threats. Habitat destruction, hunting, and fragmentation have
pushed several species to the brink of extinction. For example:
- Endangered
Species: The Dwarf Tinamou (Taoniscus
nanus) and the Yellow-legged Tinamou (Crypturellus
noctivagus) are critically endangered.
Conservation
efforts focus on habitat preservation, anti-poaching measures, and raising
awareness about these unique birds.
In local
folklore, tinamous are often symbols of stealth and resilience. They have been
hunted for food by indigenous peoples for centuries due to their rich, gamey
meat. Today, they are admired for their elusive nature and enchanting
vocalizations.
Recommendation
It is
vital for postal administrations worldwide to recognize and commemorate other
species of tinamous on stamps. This would not only celebrate their diversity
but also raise awareness about their conservation before these remarkable birds
vanish from our ecosystems. Highlighting their plight on stamps could inspire
action and appreciation, ensuring their survival for future generations.
Conclusion
Tinamous are a remarkable example of avian diversity, showcasing ancient evolutionary
traits and complex ecological roles. Protecting these birds is essential for
preserving the intricate ecosystems of Central and South America, where they
play crucial roles as seed dispersers and prey for larger predators. Their
quiet yet impactful presence in the natural world reminds us of the delicate
balance of life on Earth.
-Capt. Vijay Wadhwa : email : vicks552000@gmail.com
New Issues from other countries
Aland
3 February 2025: Boathouse
Boathouse
The stamp is one in a 3-year series featuring
boathouses on Åland. The stamp series is issued from 2024 to 2026 and consists
of a total of six stamps.
Eckerö
The stamp shows two
boathouses in Käringsund, Eckerö – one of the oldest preserved fishing villages
on Åland with origins stretching back to the 17thcentury. These simple and
functional boathouses stand on stone chests in the water and have wooden boardwalks
to land. They are large and unpainted – having turned silver-grey over time –
with tin roofs and few windows.
The denomination
Inrikes (domestic postage) of the stamp indicates a specific franking value
when you use it to frank letters or cards. The value corresponds to the current
postage tariff for a mail item up to fifty grams sent to Finland.
Hammarland
The stamp shows a
boathouse in Bovik, Hammarland, built in 2016–2017 by the owner Conny Häger.
Inspired by the technique of "timber framing", this new boathouse
combines the joy of carpentry with traditional craftsmanship. Built of Åland
pine, the boathouse measures 10 x 6 meters and has room for two boats.
The centre gutter of the stamp sheet shows a
close-up of the boathouse and the owner’s fishing boat made from oak in the
1960s.
France
27 January 2025:
Pierre Herme
Pierre
Hermé, heir to four generations of Alsatian bakers and pastry chefs, founded
Maison Pierre Hermé Paris in 1997. Celebrated in France, Japan and the United
States, the man who was voted Best Pastry Chef in the World by the World’s 50
Best Restaurant Academy in 2016, brought taste and modernity to pastry. With
“pleasure as his only guide”, Pierre Hermé invented a universe of tastes,
sensations and pleasures. His original approach to the pastry chef’s profession
led him to revolutionize the most established traditions. His work and his
audacity make him an essential name in French gastronomy today.
In
this spirit of creation and innovation, Pierre Hermé has imagined for La Poste,
the 2025 Collection of the famous Heart Stamp. The two resulting stamps are
based around the House’s iconic flavor combination, Ispahan, which intertwines
the suave and floral scent of roses, the delicate sweetness of lychee and the
tangy liveliness of raspberry. This initiative celebrates the encounter between
philately and haute pâtisserie, two disciplines deeply rooted in French
culture. By combining tradition and modernity, La Poste and Pierre Hermé Paris
pay tribute to French crafts and gastronomic excellence. The subtly scented
stamps capture notes of Rose in their hearts, becoming missives with a sweet
trail. All you have to do is take out your finest pen to write your message,
adorned with the new Pierre Hermé Paris Heart Stamp.
Greenland
31 January 2025 : Gender Equality
Greenland’s Council of Gender Equality - NALI
Greenland’s independent Council of Gender Equality was founded on 1st July 1998. The Council has since strived, within a funding framework and with rotating chairpersons and members, to reshape societal views of equality between women and men.
31
January 2025 : Greenlandic Dog Sleds II
Greenlandic Dog Sleds II
In this second part of our series about Greenland dog sleds, we feature the East Greenland sled. The construction of dog sleds varies depending on whether they are used in North, West or East Greenland. Dog sleds used on the East coast are specially designed with ‘skis’ underneath instead of runners, which affords the necessary flexibility to navigate in deep snow and tackle the challenging terrain of high mountains. The East Greenland dog sled is constructed of polished wooden batons lashed together with cord or leather straps. If the sled was assembled with screws, the wood would quickly split. The hunter binds his equipment securely to the sled. It must be lashed so tightly that the sled can roll 180 degrees without anything falling off. The dog sled must be able to carry a lot of equipment: rifle, clothes, tent, cookware and food, along with the catch. Most hunters also bring an ice auger for hacking holes in the ice, as well as a shooting screen to hide behind as they approach a seal lying on the ice.
31 January 2025 : SIRIUS Patrol Celebrates 75th Anniversary
SIRIUS Patrol
Celebrates 75th Anniversary
This year, we can celebrate the 75th anniversary of the legendary SIRIUS Dog Sled Patrol. The patrol is a small Danish special military unit under the Arctic Command that patrols by dog sled in Northeast Greenland.
The sled dogs
It is no coincidence that the sled dog patrol is named after the brightest star in the constellation, the Great Dog. Without sled dogs, the SIRIUS Patrol would not exist. Through extensive crossbreeding, a unique dog breed has been bred called the ‘SIRIUS dog’. It is both larger, heavier and stronger than normal Greenlandic sled dogs. The ideal SIRIUS dog is human-friendly, short-haired, pointy-eared, long-legged and weighs between 40 and 50 kilograms. The dogs are usually worn out after about five years of service, having typically pulled their own body weight through more than 20,000 kilometres of patrols. The dogs must be able to pull the sled across all kinds of terrain. After five years of service with the SIRIUS Patrol, the fate of the dogs is decided. Perhaps to live out their retirement with the staff at the civilian weather stations. If they have become too worn out, they are put to sleep.
Hungary
30
January 2025 : 50th Anniversary of The Patenting Of The Rubik’s Cube
50th Anniversary Of The
Patenting Of The Rubik’s Cube
Magyar
Posta is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the patenting of the Rubik’s Cube®
with a stamp issue.
The Rubik’s Cube®, or Magic Cube as it was originally called, was invented by the architect, interior designer, designer, toy designer, and Kossuth and State Prize-winning Hungarian sculptor Ernő Rubik Jr. An honorary professor, he was awarded the title of Artist of the Nation and is a member of the European Academy of Sciences. An expert on innovation and creativity at international level, his toys were inspired by a child-like inquisitiveness and imaginativeness. As a designer, he created many logic toys and his most famous invention, the Rubik’s Cube®, is a captivating puzzle. Rubik applied for a patent for the Cube on 30 January 1975, which was granted on 31 December 1977. Success came soon after. It is not a simple game, but takes the cuber straight towards human creativity. The Cube activates in everyone skills such as concentration, curiosity, playfulness and the desire to find the solution. The Rubik’s Cube® became a global craze. It has appeared frequently in books, plays and Hollywood blockbusters, has been the subject of university courses and is used as a piece of sporting equipment at world speed solving competitions. Over its past of almost half a century, it has become the game of a billion people.
The
stamp design of the numbered souvenir sheet issued by Magyar Posta shows a
scrambled Rubik’s Cube®, while the squares and rectangles forming the frame are
in the colours of the Cube. The special first day cover features an image of
the so-called Retro Rubik’s Cube®. The Hungarian version of the official logo
for the 50th anniversary of the creation of the Rubik’s Cube® (50 Years of the
Rubik’s Cube®) appears on the souvenir sheet, the first day cover and the
imprint of the postmark on the cover.
Monaco
4 February 2025: International Cat Festival
International Cat Show
Organized by the Monegasque association “De Gati de Munegu”, the Monaco
International Cat Show delights cat lovers every year. The stamp represents a
Selkirk rex, a breed of cat with curly hair like a sheep, which appeared in the
United States in 1987.
New Zealand
5 February 2025: The
British Empire Games 1950
The British Empire Games 1950
In February 1950, New Zealand hosted the British Empire Games - now known as the Commonwealth Games - for the first time. At the time it was by far the biggest international sporting event ever held in this country. Based in Auckland, it took place only a few years after the end of the Second World War and was seen as an opportunity to reinforce New Zealand’s ties with other Commonwealth countries.
Five hundred and
ninety athletes from 12 countries competed in 11 sports, watched by a total of
246,694 paying spectators. Highlights included New Zealand’s Yvette Williams
winning gold in the long jump and silver in javelin, and Harold Nelson winning
the 6-mile race. New Zealand won 10 gold, 22 silver and 22 bronze medals to
place third on the medal table behind Australia and England.
The stamps in this
series give a taste of the games by showing some athletes in action. The 1950
Empire Games were long remembered as a spectacular sporting event that marked
an end to post-war austerity.
Slovenia
31 January 2025 : Greetings Stamp
Spain
30 January 2025
: Popular Festivals - Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
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
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.
Eduitor – 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
-VADOPHIL, Apr-Dec
2024 issue Editor - Prashant Pandya &Timir Shah and published by Baroda
Philatelic Society, Vadodara. Website -http://www.vadophil.org/
- Ananthapuri Stamp
Bulletin February 2025 issue edited by Mohanachandran Nair: email : apa.tvpm@gmail.com
- Judaica Thematic
Society, UK . Society Newsletter February
2025 edited by Gary Goodman email : judaicathematicsociety@talktalk.net
- FILA Capsule January 2025 issue edited
by Dr Bibhudutta 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.; Pan India Pictorial
Place Cancellations ;
Pradip Jain – Patna ; Timir
Shah - Vadodara; Prakash Mody - Canada; M.Lokeswara Rao-Bangalore; Aditya Singh
– Allahabad ; Mohammed Dhia – Baghdad ,Iraq
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 ……….
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