Swiss Attractions
Dehradun September 2025 Vol. XVIII Issue No. 213
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
Art
Deco
Editorial……
Dear Reader,
I am pleased to present the September 2025 issue
of Rainbow Stamp News. As the habit of writing letters fades, postage stamps
have become less relevant to the general public, especially the young
generation. However, stamp collecting remains a valuable and educational hobby,
particularly among middle-aged and older individuals.
The existing philatelic societies, stamp clubs,
and enthusiastic philatelists play a significant role in promoting philately.
Nevertheless, the Postal Department's role in promoting this hobby has been
passive. As the primary source of postage stamps, post offices, and the
Department of Posts, they have the potential to introduce philately to the new
generation.
To achieve this, the Postal Department must take
the lead and collaborate with local philatelists, philatelic societies, and
stamp clubs. These organizations can provide valuable guidance and support in
organizing exhibitions, workshops, and other activities. Unfortunately, the
Department of Posts often appears unenthusiastic about such programs, and their
staff lacks training in philatelic activities.
Effective collaboration between the Postal
Department and philatelists could significantly promote philately. Recognizing
the efforts of volunteer philatelists and societies through Certificates of Appreciation, awarding souvenir for their volunteer work and honouring them during philatelic exhibitions would be a step in the right direction. By working together,
philately could be promoted, and the Department of Posts could benefit from
increased revenue through the sale of stamps and other philatelic items.
This is all for this month. More in the next issue.
Contents
. Editorial
· From the Desk of Naresh Agrawal
· Recent Indian Issues
· In the News
· Specialized Section
· Beginners’ Section
. Literature Section
. Stories Behind Stamps
. New Issues from Other Countries
· Philatelic Clubs and Society
· Blogs and Websites on Philately
· Current Philatelic Magazines and Newsletters
Social Media And Philatelic Promotion
 |
While looking at the philatelic scenario related to philatelic development and promotion activities in India; I wonder though lots of exhibitions both physical and digital are being organized, DOP also has a big budget for organizing exhibitions mainly at Distt level; the outcome is not that encouraging rather discouraging. The entry of new philatelists is still limited. All these efforts seem insufficient to attract younger as well as veteran or old generations to enfold stamp collection. It is true that having so many distractions, digital life styles, mobiles and computers entry and dependency into every facet of life; there seems to be no interest or rather no time to look towards stamps. Stamps have literally failed to attract children mainly who are the future philatelists and torch bearers of philately in India.
I must say good efforts are
being done by DOP and philatelic societies and clubs to regenerate the interest
in school children and young ones but these efforts have proven to be
insufficient. Looking into statistics and various other parameters, the
interest in philately is found to be reducing. Yes, to some extent students are
being encouraged and somehow a little number is brought into the fold of
philately but what about others. Furthermore, the interest so generated is not
long lasting.
I must also add here that
social media platforms are of course working well to support and promote
philately but still these platforms have not been properly explored in this
direction and successfully promote the essence of philately to the people of
all ages. We must not forget, though philately is for personal relaxation but
still it has a big social impact or the other way society has a big impact on
philately. At one stage it caters relaxation and satisfaction to the individual
collector and on the other hand being educational and having the characteristic
to touch every aspect of human civilization, society, history and development;
it is a social hobby also. That is why a separate class of philately known as
Social Philately has emerged.
We know that philately used
to be the hobby of people of all ages in the past. Not only young ones, people
of all age groups and cadres loved philately. In the beginning, of
course, philately was known as the hobby of kings but with time it turned into
hobby of the masses. The history of philately is full of personalities who collected
stamps at younger as well as old age.
Well, after discussing all
this my concern is to reflect the importance of association of philately with
the social places and social events happening all around us every day,
everywhere. As philately has elements of every aspect of social, political,
scientific, natural, spiritual and economic life of human beings; it has strong
material to attract people through social events. I have seen a lot of
philatelists and / or societies club their short small exhibitions with such
events. For example, during Children’s Day celebration in schools’ philatelic
displays related to Nehru, Children Day stamp issues and related topics are put
on display. Such displays add to the celebration at one place and attract
children towards philately on the other hand. Our temples are the places
where people of all ages visit. There is a good number of philatelic material
available on God, Mythological events, religion such as stamps, brochures,
covers, cancellations, special sheets etc. And also we have seen a good
number of displays also. If temple authorities are contacted and some sought of
permanent display corner is available. It will add to the promotion of
religion, education, information and promotion of philately also.
In the recent WhatsApp
message to me Mr. Rajesh Bagri, the Hon. Secretary General of PCI and a well-known
eminent philatelist shared with me his concern on this subject. During
the celebration of 50 years of Movie Sholay where Ramesh Sippy, Director
producer of the film visited Central Hall of Mumbai GPO where CPMG, Maharashtra
& Goa were also present. He also gracefully joined the celebrations.
Displays on Indian Films, Actors, actresses, and film industry could attract
people and help to promote philately because such events are visited by a good
number of people and also get good media coverage.
Mr. Ramesh
Sippy, Film Director and Producer, Mr. Amitab Singh, CPMG, Maharashtra &
Goa Circle and Mr Rajesh Kumar Bagri, Hon Secretary PCI
He also shared brief
details and concerns on his visit to one more such event held in Mumbai
on History and new facts- Presentation talk and items about Indian National
army (INA), Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and role of Thailand in the
independence movement of India. Such events are associated with philatelic as
well as philatelically accepted social material of course add to the interest
of visitors in philately and as I have already said it helps in promotion of
philately by the help of media coverage it receives. One must appreciate there
is a lot of material available on this subject and also on the freedom movement
of India. People of all age groups are attracted to such material and so
philately plays a big role here.
We all know in Metro cities where social club activities are a strong part of life style and such activities are often associated with social events. I have seen displays of philatelic material during such events. Even talks by philatelists during such events. Again, such events play a good role in philatelic promotion. Various private and government museums can be contacted for regular displays of philatelic stuff to introduce the visitors with the rich heritage of philately and its impact on society.
Cinema halls and malls are
such places where philatelic displays can be done. Sports academies can have
permanent museums or displays, Railway station, and Air ports, community halls,
schools and colleges of course are prominent places too can help in this cause.
Active YouTubers can promote philately in a big way. I mean we just have to
think and be aware of social places and events where philately can be
associated.
I think the promotion of Social
Philately can be a big tool to promote philately. Well, discussion on this
subject is endless. I place my sincere thanks to Mr. Bagri who has been putting
all his efforts tirelessly to promote philately in India in all the possible
ways. But we must not forget, one man can not do. It needs a team, a spirit to do,
willingness to serve and a vision to achieve. Let’s think more about it and
come forward to look into what I have put before. Here neither PCI nor DOP will
help, it’s our own interest and concern which can help to promote philately at
all levels, all age groups and all cadres of people of society.
-Naresh
Agrawal, Bilaspur (C.G.) email nareshkumar1992@yahoo.co.in Mob / WhatsApp: 09425530514
2 August 2025:
Purshottam H. Purohit – Rs 5
5 August 2025: 75th Anniversary of India -Philippines Democratic
Relationship - 2 x Rs 50 MS
7August 2025: MS Swaminathan – Rs 5
17 August 2025: Laxmidas Borkar -Rs 5
24 August 2025: Vithal Bhai Patel – Rs5
30 August 2025: Sri Madhav Charya- Rs 5
4 September 2025: Centenary Year of Ranchi Institute of
Neuro - Psychiatry and allied sciences (RINPAS)
1 September 2025 : Central University
of Tamil Nadu ,Thiruvarur
10 August 2025:Kailash Mansarovar
Yatra :Gunji
31 July 2025 : AIMRA Bengal : Kolkata
12 August 2025 : World Elephant Day : Gajanur
29 July 2025: Kali Tiger Reserve
:Kulgi
World Photography Day
19
August 2025, Raipur
New
Picture Postcards from Karnataka Circle
19
August 2025 : World Humnitarian Day :Bangalore
12
August 2025 : International Youth Day : Bangalore
World
Photography Day
A
Picture Postcard with Cachet released by Raipur Philatelic Bureau Chhattisgarh
Postal Circle of India Post on 19th August 2025.
World Photography Day
19 August 2025 : Thiruvananthapuram
World Humanitarian Day
19 August 2025 : Bengaluru
12 August 2025 : World Elephant Day
Pictorial Cancellation from Karnataka Postal Circle
From MP Postal Circle
From Odisha Postal Circle
7 August 2025 : Raipur
29 August 2025: National Sports Day : Bhubaneshwar
New Postal Stationery: Inland Letter sheet
In The News
Recent Stamp Exhibitions
THAILAND 2025 Asian International Stamp Exhibition. 8 -12 August 2025
Indian Winners
Thailand 2025 : Asian International Stamp Exhibition
Congratulations!
1.Sushil
Mehra 2. Gauresh Mehra 3. M. Lokeswara Rao 4. Meena Muthu 5. Aditya Asthana 6.
Dinesh Kanabar
Awad List of Indian Participants
Indian Participants
Indian Winners at Gass 2025
In GASS 2025 Great American
Stamp Show 2025, Mr M.Lokeswara Rao received Large Vermeil medal
for his article “Great Barrier Reef on Stamps” published in American Topical
Association Magazine Topical Time November- December 2024 issue and got silver
medal for his book” Ramayana on Stamps”.
Capt. Vijay Wadhwa won 3 medals, Large Silver, Silver and Silver-Bronze for 3 of his books.
Visit : https://stamps.org/events/great-american-stamp-show to see the GASS 2025 palmares.
AUSVIPEX
-2025
Deadlines
Entries close: 28 September 2025
Title
Pages to Judges: Mon 5 October 2025
Scans
by: 20 Oct 2025 (but can be sent anytime up until then)
Exhibition
available on line for Judges: from Friday 13 November 2025.
Exhibition
available on line for public viewing: from Friday 27 November 2025.
Results
available: Friday 4 December 2025.
Feedback
to Exhibitors: Week commencing Mon 7 December 2025.
On
Line until 28 Feb 2026
Frames
Available: 500
Exhibition
Website https://ausvipex2025.com
Organisation
The Australian Virtual Philatelic
Exhibition 2025 (AUSVIPEX 2025) is an online National Philatelic Exhibition
organised by the Australian Philatelic Federation (APF). These regulations are
based on the APF Regulations for Australian Philatelic Exhibitions.
For all enquiries email: Ausvipex2025@gmail.com
Conditions of
Participation
Participation in the Exhibition is
open to all exhibitors worldwide. They
do not need to be a member of an affiliated organisation. The exhibitor must be
the bona-fide owner of the exhibit.
Exhibits must be of 2-8 frames based
on 16 sheets (approximately 28-29 cm x 23 cm each) per frame. Page size is not
critical but entries must be in the format of frames each comprising 16 single
sheets or the equivalent in double pages or square pages, or a combination of
single, double or square pages corresponding to a ‘frame’ in a physical
exhibition.
Exhibits may come from any of the FIP
or APF competitive classes, except for the One-Frame Class. Only electronic (or
digital) Literature Class entries will be accepted. Exhibits will be classified
and judged in their respective FIP class or Australian National Class. Judging
is based on the regulations of their respective classes and these Guidelines.
Each entry must be entered in the correct class. Non-competitive entries will be by invitation
of the Committee only.
Entries can be either scans of
exhibits prepared and mounted on paper or exhibits prepared using scans of
philatelic items with the pages prepared on a computer. If the latter, the nature of preparation must
be declared. The items scanned must be owned by the exhibitor and the scans
must not be embellished in any way.
All entries will be displayed on the
Exhibition website and available for public viewing.
Entry fees
The frame fee of $20 per frame (multi-frame
exhibits) or $25 (Electronic Literature entries) must accompany the entry form.
PHILAKOREA 2025 Specialised World Stamp Championship Exhibition
From 17 - 21 September, 2025 At COEX Le West
Convention Center in Seoul, Rep. of Korea.https://philakorea2025.kr
National
Commissioner for India
KAPIL GOGRI
Email : kapilg25@hotmail.com WhatsApp +91.98211.11140
Apprentice National Commissioner for India
Meena Mutha :Email meenu55@gmail.com
Dubai 2026
DUBAI
2026, Specialized FIP & FIAP patronage World Stamp Exhibition ,4-8 February
2026
Participation open in
following classes
Class 1: Traditional Philately
Class 2:
Postal History
Class 3: Postal Stationery
Class 4:
Thematic Philately
Class 5:
Picture Postcards 3
Class 6:
Experimental class
A: One
Frame Exhibit. (1 frame from above class only)
B:
Non-standard Frames Exhibit. ( 2-4 frames from above class only)
Class 7:
Youth Philately
Group A
10-15 years old as on Jan.1, 2026(1-3 frame)
Group B
16-18 years old as on Jan.1, 2026(2-4 frame)
Group C
19-21 years old as on Jan.1, 2026(3-5 Frame)
Class 8:
Philatelic Literature
A)
Philatelic books and research papers published after January 01, 2021
B)
Philatelic magazines and periodicals, whole annual volume issued after January
2024
C)
Catalogues published after January 01, 2024
Application Forms shall be submitted to Commissioners
not later than 20 July 2025 along with copy of the introductory page. When the
title of the exhibit differs from the past (irrespective of minor or major
changes), the previous title of the exhibit must be stated in the Exhibit
Application Form. FIP Exhibitor’s Identity Number must be stated which can also
be obtained from PCI.
The participation fee for Competitive Classes (except
6, 7 and 8) will be US$ 100 per frame , Experimental class (Class 6) A: One
frame Exhibit is US$ 110 per exhibit B: Non-standard frame exhibit is US$ 100
per frame , Youth Philately (Class 7) is US$ 20 per exhibit and Philatelic
Literature (Class 8) is US$ 90 per exhibit. All additional expenses will be
informed once applications are received and calculated accordingly.
For more
details & Form download click :https://dubai2026wse.com/
MACAO 2026
The FIP Patronage Specialised world Stamp Exhibition
will be held at Cotai Expo Hall A, The Venetian Macao, Taipa Macau SAR from 26
June 2026 to 1stJuly 2026.
Last date of submitting entries: 18 November 2025
Visit: https://www.macao2026.org.mo/
AMSIPEX 2026
The Airmail Soceity of India Foundation (AMSI) is conducting its 2nd Virtual International Aero & Astrophilatelic exhibition during 14 to 21 February 2026.
For more details visit : www.amsipex.com
BOSTON-2026
BOSTON
2026 GWSE is organized by American Philatelic Society (APS) in accordance with
Fédération Internationale de Philatélie (FIP) .The exhibition will open on May
23 and close on May 30, 2026.
The
exhibition will be held at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center (BCEC)
in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. Approximately 4,000 exhibition frames judged
under FIP rules will be available
National Commissioner: Mr. Pratisad Neurgaonkar, Email: pratisadn@gmail.com , Mobile: +91 9766310553
BOSTON 2026 (IREX) and Entry Form
View : BOSTON 2026 - IREX
PHILATAIPEI 2026
FIP Patronage General World
Dates: 19 - 24 Nov 2026
News
from Philatelists and Philatelic Societies
Air Mail Society India Foundation
Book published by our Member, Mr. Markand Dave FRPSL
Book Title: The Rocket Mails of India – Part 1 (A
visionary work of Stephen
Smith) Released during the Great American Stamp Show (GASS)
AMSI YouTube
Channel
Specialized Section
British India Bazar Cards
THE MIRROR OF INDIAN MYTHOLOGY
-Naresh Agrawal
Picturing Images of Ramayana and Lord Hanuman
Stamps are considered as mirror of art, culture, history, religion, mythology and other aspects of any country or society but it is not only stamps but other postal material and stationery also shares their part for the same purpose. Various philatelic materials depict and project various such aspects through the quotes, slogan, text or pictorial advertisements, vignettes printed on them and also through cancellations, labels and private text and sketches drawn / written on them.
India 1905 Bazaar Picture Postcard -Hanuman GOD
1900-30 "Bazaar" cards and covers were in fact illustrated advertising postcards and envelopes from various merchants in larger cities (Bombay, Delhi, Madras, Poona City, Jaipur, Indore etc.) promoting their products. These private printed post cards also showed printing of various pictures/ glimpse of various religions of India which were either printed by individual merchants / traders giving specific quotes and pictures or were also available in market with some standard pictorial printing done on either side of the cards. Such private printed post cards which were also on common sale in the market for usage even by non- merchants. Because those cards were mainly used by the merchants of bazaars of India for their business transactions and communication mainly day to day rates; the cards were known as bazaar cards.
Some of the cards had pictures of heroes of various mythological epics of India showing various deities, gods, scenes / images of the episodes of the epics. These cards certainly helped in promotion of religious awakening and enthusing religious spirits in India. One will certainly see a consideration of the relationship between Indian bazaar art shown on bazaar cards of that era and the formation of a modern, pan-Indian Hindu religious identity. It is seen that the popular, mechanically reproduced lithographs of Hindu mythological heroes have always attracted more attention than they have so far received from scholars of religion.
While some scholars in other fields have written politically about these images but one should take seriously their religious genealogy and treat them as vernacular religious texts where these images act as sources of insight into the formation of a modern Hindu religious identity. It is assumed that there is such an entity as Hinduism that is “Sanatana Dharma”
A close study of such cards
revealed that there was a huge variety of such cards which highlighted images
of Hindu Mythology as one could see the glimpse of Heroes of Ramayana,
Mahabharata, various Hindu deities and gods & scenes / images of various other
epics on the pictures imprinted on the cards covering partial, corner, half or
in some cases full side of such the cards and covers. These business cards are
also known as ‘Corner Card’.
Ramayana
Rama and his wife Sita, seated, with Rama's brother Lakshmana fans them, and Hanuman, the Monkey God, kneels in front of them. From the great Hindu epic, the Ramayana
Ramayana has been the main epic of Indian mythology and is followed by every Hindu. The main story of the Ramayana is about Lord Rama. In short, the Ramayana is about Rama who was born in a royal family and was supposed to be the king, but because of his step- mother, he was forced to exile from his kingdom for fourteen years. During this period his consort Sita was kidnapped by a demon called Ravan, who was the king of Lanka. Rama with the help of his brother, Lakshman, and an army of monkeys under the leadership of Hanuman, rescued Sita.
Valmiki wrote Ramayan in Sanskrit Sant Tulsidas wrote Ram Charitmanas
Ramayana was originally written by a sage Valmiki in the Sanskrit language and later on it was translated into other languages in different versions. Sant Tulsidas wrote Ram Chritman -as giving details of deeds of Ramayana in poetic form.But the Ramayana isn't only about Lord Rama and his attempt to rescue his consort Sita but is also about devotion, loyalty, family roles and respect to elders.
Ramayana does not begin with the life of Rama, but actually with the people on earth who suffered from the demon named Ravan, a cruel king who terrorizes the people of earth. Rama gets married to Sita. Sita is an adopted daughter of another king. In order to win her hand, he won the contest of bending a bow, which belonged to Lord Shiva.
King Dasrath intended to inherit his kingdom to his eldest son, Rama. But Sumitra another wife of Dashratha was provoked by her maid asks for exile of fourteen years in forests to Rama and her son Bharat to heir kingdom. King Dasrath who is in great dilemma and pain, eventually bows to her demands.
BAZAR CARDS 1906-TWIN COBRA OVERPRINTS- SNAKE CANCELLATIONS OF GWALIOR
Rama
accepts his father's decision without any argument. He along with his wife
moved out for exile. His brother Lakshman also decides to join his brother in
exile. They moved in to forests, crossed rivers and climb mountains too...
Ramayana crossing river by boat: India Indore State 1907 illustrated Bazar
Card
They came across various demons. There in one forest,a female demon, Surpanakha fall in love with Rama and she tried to seduce him. Rama being a loyal husband refused to her flirts, so she tries to kill Sita. At this point Lakshman took his sword and cut the demon's nose. She went to her brother, Ravan, and told him of the disgrace that happened to her. Ravan decided to avenge this humiliation by kidnapping Rama's wife Sita. He even noticed that she is very beautiful and desired her.
To kidnap Sita, Ravan planted a beautiful deer near Rama’s hut in forest which Sita saw and urged Rama to get it. Rama ran after deer to get it. Later, Laxman also followed Rama. And then, Ravna kidnapped Sita and flew to Lanka with her and placed her in a garden.
When Rama returned, a
vulture who had fought Ravna to rescue Sita, was found dying told them that
Ravan kidnapped Sita. Rama and Lakshman decided to find out Sita.
Rama and Lakshman needed an
army to find and fight Ravan and they got this help from the monkeys. The king
of monkeys who was exiled by his brother got Rama's help to fight and slain his
brother. After regaining his throne, the monkey king assigned one of his commanders, Hanuman to serve Rama in his assignment
to find Sita.
Lord Hanuman could fly: Flying over
Rawana’s Sri Lanka : Bazaar King Edward Postcard
Hanuman who was capable of flying,
flown to Lanka and found Sita in Ravna’s garden guarded by female demons, in a
depressed mood. He proved to her that he was Rama's messenger and offered to
carry her back. But to vindicate her honour she preferred that Rama himself should
rescue her. Hanuman promised that Rama would come and rescue her.
Lord Hanuman Ji reached Sri Lanka
India Gwalior State QV 3p on illustrated
Bazar Card 1904
After Hanuman's return,
Rama planned his way to reach Ravan's island. Rama and his advisers planned a
bridge to Lanka in the sea with trees and rocks from forests and arrived Lanka
and offered Ravna a peaceful solution but Ravna’s refusal set a war in which
even Rama and Lakshman got hurt. The monkeys also began to get weak because
Ravan's forces use biological weapons, which weaken their senses. So, a medical
expert in Rama's forces claimed that to neutralize that a special herb named
Sanjeevani booti was required which existed in a far away mountain, named
Mahodaya (Dronagiri in Himalayas).
HINDU
DIETY VEER HANUMAN CHECKING HERBS
BAZAR
CARDS-1905 TWIN COBRA OVERPRINTS- SNAKE CANCELLATIONS OF GWALIOR
Hanuman flew to that
mountain and found out that the mountain was full of different herbs, so he
brought the whole mountain to Lanka. Slowly the forces got back to their
senses.
INDIA 1905 PICTURE POSTCARD OF HANUMANJI
CARRYING THE SANJEEVANI PARVAT
Eventually after many battles Ravan faced Rama and after two continuous days of battles Rama kileds Ravan and visited Sita. But the Ramayana does not end here. The fact that Sita lived in another man's palace caused some rumors about her chastity. She was obliged to take a fire test in which she sat in a fire but came out unharmed and therefore was purified from charges.
In the original version of
the Ramayana, after Rama and Sita returned to Ayodhya, the capital of Kosala
the rumors about Sita's adultery in Ravan's captivity continued and therefore
the people disrespected her. So Rama, who was now the king, decided to banish
Sita from his kingdom. In the forests she met a sage named Valmiki, who later
on wrote the Ramayana. In Valmiki's ashram Sita gave birth to two twins of
Rama, Lav and Kush. Those two children learnt from Valmiki to sing the Ramayana
as a poem and they went everywhere and started telling everyone the Ramayana,
meaning Rama's story. They even arrived into Rama's court and told him his
story and so Rama recognized his sons. He brought back his wife Sita who
decided to prove her loyalty to Rama by asking Mother Earth to swallow her if
she was loyal to Rama and so Mother Earth to testify her loyalty, opened up and
swallowed her and Sita disappeared into earth. Later on Rama himself jumped in
the river to end his life, followed by many.
-Naresh Agrawal: email nareshkumar1992@yahoo.co.in
Beginners’ Section
Do you know
Swiss
Inventions - Toilet Duck
No busted flush
Toilet Duck first appeared in 1980. This world-famous household product
traces back to a Swiss patent that was originally owned by the Düring family
from Dällikon and their company.
The product’s founder Walter Düring Orlob was strongly advised against
naming the product “Toilet Duck”, but he ignored that advice. “In retrospect,
it was a brilliant decision, because a duck for the toilet was a very unusual
and eye-catching idea,” says Heinz Düring, the inventor’s son. Despite the
originality of the concept, Walter knew that the product could be copied, so
almost all of the budget was spent on patents. The remaining funds were just
enough for a TV advertisement. The invention then took on a life of its own:
from 1980, it conquered the domestic market and gradually spread around the
world.
A “durgol” family invention
The foundation for the product was created by the inventor’s mother,
Maria Düring Keller. Searching for additional income for her family, she first
attempted to produce potato crisps. When she realized that the company Zweifel
was already out pacing her efforts, she turned her attention to tackling limes
cale problems in the home. She experimented with various ingredients in her
garage, sometimes calling on the support of a chemist. Once she had perfected
her new product’s effectiveness and smell, she named it “durgol” a combination
of her last name Düring and the suffix “-ol”, which was often used when naming
industrial products at that time.
The businesswoman then embarked on a sales tour of buildings with large numbers of toilets, such as schools and major companies, presenting the product herself.The concept was a success, but growth as a one-woman enterprise was limited. In 1964, her son Walter Düring Orlob
joined the newly founded Düring AG, where he continued developing
durgol and experimented with plastic bottles, which were completely new at the
time. His first attempt was durgol WC. More than 10 years later, he focused his
efforts on working out how the cleaning fluid could be squirted directly under
the toilet rim. Eventually, he found the winning solution was to give the
bottle a curved neck like a duck and the Toilet Duck was born. The first
formula for the descaling fluid was produced by his wife Vera Düring. Working
in the company’s basement, she developed a product that has a fresh scent,
removes heavy limescale and is thick enough to stick to the toilet bowl and
remain effective for longer. And this innovation has proved to be anything but
a busted flush: today, the household product is still sold around the world
under the name of Toilet Duck translated into each country’s national language,
of course.
No busted flush
Toilet Duck first appeared in 1980. This world-famous household product
traces back to a Swiss patent that was originally owned by the Düring family
from Dällikon and their company.
The product’s founder Walter Düring Orlob was strongly advised against
naming the product “Toilet Duck”, but he ignored that advice. “In retrospect,
it was a brilliant decision, because a duck for the toilet was a very unusual
and eye-catching idea,” says Heinz Düring, the inventor’s son. Despite the
originality of the concept, Walter knew that the product could be copied, so
almost all of the budget was spent on patents. The remaining funds were just
enough for a TV advertisement. The invention then took on a life of its own:
from 1980, it conquered the domestic market and gradually spread around the
world.
A “durgol” family invention
The foundation for the product was created by the inventor’s mother,
Maria Düring Keller. Searching for additional income for her family, she first
attempted to produce potato crisps. When she realized that the company Zweifel
was already out pacing her efforts, she turned her attention to tackling limes
cale problems in the home. She experimented with various ingredients in her
garage, sometimes calling on the support of a chemist. Once she had perfected
her new product’s effectiveness and smell, she named it “durgol” a combination
of her last name Düring and the suffix “-ol”, which was often used when naming
industrial products at that time.
The businesswoman then embarked on a sales tour of buildings with large numbers of toilets, such as schools and major companies, presenting the product herself.The concept was a success, but growth as a one-woman enterprise was limited. In 1964, her son Walter Düring Orlob joined the newly founded Düring AG, where he continued developing durgol and experimented with plastic bottles, which were completely new at the time. His first attempt was durgol WC. More than 10 years later, he focused his efforts on working out how the cleaning fluid could be squirted directly under the toilet rim. Eventually, he found the winning solution was to give the bottle a curved neck like a duck and the Toilet Duck was born. The first formula for the descaling fluid was produced by his wife Vera Düring. Working in the company’s basement, she developed a product that has a fresh scent, removes heavy limescale and is thick enough to stick to the toilet bowl and remain effective for longer. And this innovation has proved to be anything but a busted flush: today, the household product is still sold around the world under the name of Toilet Duck translated into each country’s national language, of course.
Founding of NATO
The third anniversary of
the treaty’s signing.
On August 24, 1949, the North Atlantic Treaty came into force, officially establishing the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).The stability of world politics took a dramatic turn at the end of World War II. The Soviet Union was gaining power in Europe. Military strength became a leading concern among non-communist countries that feared they would be unable to defend against Soviet aggression.
NATO emblem – a compass
rose symbolizing the path of peace
On March 17, 1948, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, France, and the United Kingdom signed the Treaty of Brussels. This treaty expanded on the defense pledge of the Dunkirk Treaty of the year before. Three months later the Soviets began their blockade of Berlin, blocking supply routes to the area of Berlin under Western control. This led to the formation of the Western Union Defense Organization in September 1948. Realizing the military strength of the United States would be necessary to stop a potential communist attack, talks began for a new alliance.
Dean Acheson’s 100th
birthday.
In 1948, European
leaders travelled to the United States to meet with American military leaders
and diplomats to discuss a new treaty. They met with President Harry Truman’s
secretary of State, Dean Acheson. The resulting North Atlantic Treaty was
signed on April 4, 1949, in Washington, DC. The participating nations were
Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands,
Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom, and the United States. After all of the
nations ratified the treaty, it came into effect on August 24, 1949.
Member countries agreed to maintain a
unified military force to defend against Soviet invasion, and pledged to
consider an attack on one as an attack on all of them. NATO’s first secretary
general stated the organization’s goal as to “keep the Russians out, the
Americans in, and the Germans down.”
The
Korean War was the first test of the alliance. Though it was not on the
soil of any NATO country, it demonstrated the threat of communist
expansion. The organization responded with a military plan establishing
the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) as the command
structure. Sixteen UN countries joined South Korea in its fight to stop
the advance.
US #3354 – The issue of this stamp in 1999 was delayed due to the NATO-led Operation Allied Force, which involved air strikes staged against Yugoslavia.
The 50th anniversary of NATO
In 1954, the Soviet Union asked to join NATO to ensure peace in Europe. Seen as a ploy to weaken the alliance, the country’s request was rejected. The following year, the Soviets joined with seven other communist nations to form the Warsaw Pact. This led to two opposing sides during the Cold War. After the Revolutions of 1989 that brought an end to communism in Eastern Europe, NATO sought to improve relationships with former Warsaw Pact countries.
Though NATO was established to provide mutual military support, the combined forces were never called upon to fight on European or American soil during the Cold War. Most of NATO’s money and troops have come from the US, which has greatly increased American influence in Europe. Past NATO commanders have included generals Dwight D. Eisenhower and Alexander Haig. Today, NATO consists of the twelve original member states plus 18 that have been added since then. This includes former members of the Warsaw Pact, with some of the new NATO members formerly part of the Soviet Union. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Finland and Sweden were officially invited to join NATO. Their accession must be approved by all current NATO members, which as of this date, 23 members have. Furthermore, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Georgia, and Ukraine have expressed interest in joining. The organization’s headquarters are in Brussels, Belgium
Literature Section
Book Review
Echoes of Kurukshetra : A Philatelic Tribute to the Bhagwad Gita
By Sushil Mehra
Echoes of Kurkshetra : A
Philatelic Tribute to the The Bhagwad Gita : Author and Publisher - Sushil
Mehra : Pages - 40 : Size and Type - Small Coffee Table Book - Paperback : Publisher and Copyright Holder : Sushil Mehra :
Contact : WhatsApp : 9972091818 : email : gaureshmehra @gmail.com : Copyrght Holder : Sushil Mehra: The Book is for Private Circulation only
The new book recently brought out by Mr Sushil Mehra ‘Echoes of Kurkshetra : A Philatelic Tribute to the The Bhagwad Gita’ features various philatelic items related to Bhagwad Gita. The Bhagavad Gita is a sacred Hindu text presenting a philosophical dialogue between the warrior Arjuna and his charioteer, Lord Krishna, on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. It offers guidance on living a righteous life, fulfilling one's purpose (dharma), and achieving spiritual liberation by understanding the soul, the nature of action (karma), and devotion to God. The battlefield serves as an allegory for inner conflict, and Krishna's teachings empower Arjuna to overcome doubt and act with clarity.
India Post issued a commemorative stamp featuring The Shlok "कर्मण्येवाधिकारस्ते मा फलेषु कदाचन। मा कर्मफलहेतुर्भूर्मा ते सङ्गोऽस्त्वकर्मणि॥" (Karmanye vadhikaraste, ma phaleshu kadachana | Ma karma phala hetur bhur, ma te sango\'stvakarmani) from the Bhagavad Gita Chapter 2, Verse 47. It means, "You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but never to the fruits of your actions. Never consider yourself the cause of the results of your activities, nor be attached to inaction". Lord Krishna advises Arjuna to focus on performing his duties without attachment to the outcomes, emphasizing action (karma) over results and detachment from inaction, making it a famous verse on duty, selflessness, and detachment.
The book features this
stamp and special cancellations, permanent pictorial cancellation and Meter
marks based on Bhagavad Gita used in special covers, private covers and
commemorative covers at different places. It also bazaar cards, picture postcards,
Maxim cards, souvenir cards and some other items related to Bhagwad Gita, Lord
Krishan and Mahabharat.
The author has discovered
every possible philatelic material related to Bhagwad Gita. It is an excellent
guide book for thematic collectors and one can prepare a wonderful 'One Frame Exhibit 'on Bhagwad Gita Theme.
About the Author
- Glimpses of Vintage Bengaluru’,
- ‘Guide to Permanent Pictorial Cancellations of
India’,
- ‘ My Dashavatar Collection with special
emphasis on Rama and Krishna’,
- ‘Exemplified Philatelic Terms’,
- ‘Jai Hind – The True spirit of India’,
- ‘The Handbook of Permanent Pictorial
Cancellations of India’.
- ‘INK THE PPC: An Updated Guide to Permanent
Pictorial Cancellations’
- ‘My Collection of Special Covers issued by
Karnataka Postal Circle 2019-2023’
- ‘The Post Office Buildings of India’
- ‘CARRIED COVERS of INDIA’
- ‘Gandhi Connections’ on Post Offices in India
bearing the name of Gandhiji
- ‘Daakiya Aaya, Chitti Laya’ – a book in Hindi
about Postmen and Letters through the ages through the eyes of picture
postcards
He has received several awards at National and International Philatelic Exhibitions for his exhibits and books...
- Jeevan Jyoti
Stories Behind Stamps
Germany - Oldenburg 1/3 Gr. black on a green paper stamp, 1859
Reference : https://findyourstampsvalue.com/rarest-stamps/most-valuable-german-stamps
-Nisarg Sutaria email : nisargsutaria78@gmail.com
New Issues from other countries
Austria
Simon Lehner - How Far is a Lightyear, 2005-2019
The young Austrian artist Simon Lehner
creates hybrid artworks that engage with a wide range of themes. Born in 1996, Simon
Lehner studied Photography and Time-Based Media at the University of Ap- plied
Arts in Vienna. While his artistic practice is rooted in photography, it
expands into painting techniques and image processing. Using archival
photographs as a starting point, he creates three- dimensional photographic
objects and installations that are digitally altered and enriched with
painterly elements. In his cycle "How far is a lightyear?", Lehner
explores themes such as masculinity, trauma, and the development of identity
within the family. Childhood photographs are digitally reworked and recomposed
into new visual narratives and compositions.
29 August
2025 : Mushroom : Weeping Milk Cap
Weeping Milk Cap
The weeping milk cap (Lactifluus volemus) is a little-known but
delicious edible mushroom.It belongs to the Russulaceae family. Its finely
velvety cap ranges from reddish-brown to caramel in colour – slightly convex in
young specimens, later flattening out, and occasionally reaching a diame- ter
of up to 20 centimetres. The cream-coloured gills are attached to the stem and
bruise reddish- brown when pressed. The stem is typically slightly paler than
the cap. One of its most distinctive fea- tures is the milky latex that oozes
from damaged flesh or gills and turns brown when exposed to air. Another
unmistakable trait is its strong herring-like smell. Considered a delicacy, the
weeping milk cap develops its full aroma when simply pan-fried over high heat.
It grows in upland areas beneath pine, spruce, beech or oak trees, but has
become increasingly rare. The species is found in Europe, North America and
parts of Asia.
Hungary
1 September 2025: 950 Years Of Szolnok - Miniature Sheet
950 Years of Szolnok
Magyar Posta is issuing a commemorative souvenir sheet to celebrate the
950th anniversary of the foundation of the city of Szolnok. Forty thousand
copies of the black numbered perforated souvenir sheets and 4,000 copies of the
red numbered imperforated souvenir sheets designed by the graphic artist
Barnabás Baticz were produced by the banknote printing company Pénzjegynyomda
Zrt. The new issue goes on sale at Filaposta, philately specialist services,
certain post offices and www.posta.hu from 1 September 2025.
Netherlands
28 August 2025 : Gold
Stamp - Fibula from Dorestad - Gold Stamp
28 August 2025 : Underwater Life Sint
Eustatius - Miniature Sheet
28 August 2025 : Silver Stamp - Dutch Motorcycle Brands - Sparta 1950
Gold Stamp - Fibula from Dorestad
In 1969, an 8.5 cm fibula was found in a well
from the Dorestad period, where Wijk bij Duurstede is now located. Designer
Maud van Rossum selected this cloak pin, dating from around 800 AD, for her
"Fibula of Dorestad" stamp sheet. PostNL released this stamp sheet on
May 9th in conjunction with the "National Archaeological Discoveries"
theme chosen by the collaborating European postal companies for 2025.The fibula
is made of gold, which naturally called for the issuance of a gold postage
stamp.
Underwater Life Sint Eustatius
The waters around St. Eustatius are protected
areas. And that's understandable. Graphic designer Medy Oberendorff captured
some of the inhabitants of this wonderful water world in a fairytale-like post
set.This postal set consists of three cards and a stamp sheet with three
different stamps.
Silver Stamp - Dutch Motorcycle Brands - Sparta 1950
The Sparta 1950, with a 200cc Villiers engine,
was a successful and popular model, particularly due to its combination of
excellent roadholding and a top speed of 90 km/h. This is why it was included
in the series of silver Dutch mountain bike stamps, designed by Frank Janse.
2 September 2025 : Danube Delta Biosphere
Reserve
Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve
Romfilatelia
introduces into circulation on Tuesday, September 2nd, this year the postage
stamp issue entitled Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve, dedicated to ‘the youngest
Romanian land’ - the Danube Delta, which is constantly changing, having a
special ecological, scientific and touristic value. The issue consists of four
stamps and a First Day Cover.
The Danube Delta is a
true sanctuary of European biodiversity, home to over 5,000 species of flora
and fauna. Estimated to be more than 12,000 years old, it continues to expand,
known for the largest reed-bed area in Europe, the Letea subtropical forest -
the northernmost of its kind - and the presence of beluga sturgeon, the world’s
largest freshwater fish.
In 1990, the Delta was
included in the ‘Man and the Biosphere’ (MAB) program, and a year later, in
1991, it was designated a Ramsar site - a wetland of international importance -
and included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is also part of Europe’s
Natura 2000 ecological network.
Romania is the only
country in the world to have almost an entire delta declared a biosphere
reserve with international recognition and status.
In order to highlight
the importance of this unique corner of nature, by Order No. 539/2008 issued by
the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development, September 1st was
established as the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve Day.
The four postage
stamps of the issue feature emblematic species of the Danube Delta, with an
important role in maintaining the ecological balance of this unique habitat.
Great White Egret (Ardea alba), is illustrated on the postage stamp with the face
value of Lei 3. It is a migratory species, declared a natural monument. With
its immaculate white plumage and elegant silhouette, it appears in summer in
the reedbeds and marshes of the Danube Delta. In spring, the nuptial plumage is
characterized by long, fine feathers, which have been collected over the years
to adorn garments. It feeds on fish, amphibians and reptiles.
Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) is depicted on the postage stamp with the face
value of Lei 6.50. Small but spectacular, this bird has a blue head and back
with blue or greenish metallic highlights and an orange belly. It nests on the
banks of clear running or standing water, from where it dives to catch small
fish and tadpoles.
Otter (Lutra lutra), of the mustelid family, is presented on the
postage stamp with the face value of Lei 8. A carnivorous semi-aquatic mammal,
the otter is mostly active at night, but can also be seen during the day in the
quiet areas of the Delta. It feeds mainly on fish, crustaceans and other
invertebrates and is an indicator of the health of aquatic ecosystems.
Mallard (Anas
platyrhynchos) is illustrated on the
postage stamp with thw face value of Lei 14. A sedentary species, the great
duck is present in large numbers in the Danube Delta. The male has a green head
and a white collar, while the female has a brownish-speckled plumage. It is the
ancestor of the domestic duck and a key element of aquatic ecosystems. It feeds
on insects, crustaceans, worms, seeds and plant matter.
The graphic of the
First Day Cover features a specimen of the family Ciconiidae, the white stork.
It is a migratory bird.
Switzerland
4 September 2025: Dove of Peace: Miniature Sheet (Embroidered on a woven
background)
A sign of peace
To raise awareness of the importance of peace, an international
initiative has created the “Dove of peace” stamp.
Peace is a basic human need: we all want to live in harmony. And yet we
are often surrounded by different conflicts within ourselves, in our
communities or globally. To raise awareness of the value of peace and send a
message of hope, an international initiative launched the “Dove of peace” stamp
project. The centrepiece of the project is an embroidered stamp featuring a
dove as a universal symbol of peace and unity.
A shared idea for a better world
Postal administrations from various European countries (including Swiss
Post), the United Nations, the Universal Postal Union and Austrian embroidery
producer Hämmerle & Vogel are all involved in the project. “Together, we
are committed to world peace, which we are supporting through this project and
the ‘Dove of peace’ stamp,” the project sponsors announced in a communication.
The stamp will be available in the participating countries, always with the
same design and the relevant country’s text and face value. Like a dove in
flight, the project transcends borders and carries a powerful message of love,
tolerance and humanity around the world.
A call to action
The stamp is also designed as a call to action: peace begins within
ourselves and in our immediate surroundings. It requires daily effort,
resilience and a commitment to working towards a harmonious community. Even
small actions can make a difference such as using a stamp that encourages
people to join the global peace effort.
Philatelic Clubs and Societies
Air Mail Society India Foundation - https://www.airmailsocietyindia.org/
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 - https://eipa.in/home
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
Durgapur
Philatelic & Numismatic Society – https://www.facebook.com/share/1B3TasUbyR/
Blogs & Websites
Jusqu’a Markings and other Route Indicators
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
Gibbons Stamp Monthly edited by Dean Shepherd –
Stanley Gibbons
Acknowledgment
- Ananthapuri Stamp
Bulletin September 2025 issue edited by Mohanachandran Nair: email : apa.tvpm@gmail.com
- Judaica Thematic
Society, UK . Society Newsletter September 2025 edited by Gary Goodman email : judaicathematicsociety@talktalk.net
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 ; Dharam Dev Maurya- Pune; Capt. Vijay Wadhwa- Raipur ; Pradip Jain-Patna; M. Lokeswara Rao-Bangalore; Timir Shah – Vadodara ; Mystic Stamp Co. ; MB Stamps ; Mohanachandran Nair-Trivandrum
Address for communication:
Jeevan Jyoti, 509, Design Arcade, Chandrabani, Wildlife
Institute Road, Dehradun-248001. India .
e-mail
– j.jyoti9@gmail.com
A Request to Readers & Contributors –
·
Please do not send the text in scan
form or PDF. Send your write ups in MS Word only.
- Last
date for receiving articles/ News /write ups – 25th of every month.
- For
articles: Kindly send images in jpg compressed form and text
in MS Word only Please do
not use any formatting and text wrapping in the article.
Simply put the images under text where required.
- If you like this issue please forward it to
your friends and help in promoting philately.
· Please do not send forwarded messages for promotional
section if you want to give any information for promotion, please write
personally with brief write up. As this newsletter is not used for any
commercial purpose in any manner.
Attention – Please do not
send text or image for publication in PDF.
Any material from this newsletter
may be reproduced only with the written permission from the editor.
Happy Collecting ……….
Rainbow Stamp News is edited and
published monthly by Jeevan Jyoti from Dehradun (Uttarakhand ) India for free circulation
among philatelists.
No comments:
Post a Comment