Celebration of Gibraltar's Philately
Dehradun October 2025 Vol. XVIII Issue No. 214
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
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Finnish Habits
Finns have several national customs, two of which are presented in colourful stamps. On the first stamp, people are lining up for free buckets, which is a well-known way of getting masses of Finns moving. On the second stamp, people are waiting for a bus at a bus stop and, as is common in Finland, they are keeping their distance from other passengers.
Editorial……
Great Performance by
Indian philatelists at Phila Korea 2025
Dear Reader,
I am delighted to present the October 2025 issue
of Rainbow Stamp News. I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to all
Indian participants who took part in Phila Korea 2025. Their outstanding
performance has brought pride to the nation, with notable achievements that
deserve special mention.
Mr. Lallan Singh's Gold Medal in the Thematic
Class is a testament to his dedication and passion for philately. He joins the
ranks of esteemed philatelists like Mr. Anand Kakad, who previously won a Gold
Medal in the same category at Hunfilex 2022 World Philatelic Exhibition. What's
truly remarkable about Mr. Singh's achievement is that he accomplished this
feat at the age of 79, proving that success knows no age bounds. His
perseverance and enthusiasm are an inspiration to philatelists of all ages,
highlighting the benefits of pursuing a hobby that keeps the mind and body
active.
I would like to congratulate Mr. Lallan Singh on
behalf of the Rainbow Team and the entire philatelic community for his
incredible achievement. It's heartening to note that 7 Indian participants won
Large Vermeil and five won Vermeil with Mr. Akhil Reddy receiving a Special
Prize. These accomplishments not only bring pride to our nation but also pave
the way for others to excel in philately.
The interview with Mr. Lallan Singh taken by Mr Naresh
Agrawal in this issue will undoubtedly motivate aspiring philatelists to
explore new paths to success. His story serves as a reminder that with hard work
determination and keeping update with the latest guidelines, one can achieve
great things.
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
. Interview
· 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
AMRITKAAL OF THEMATIC
PHILATELY : THE GOLDEN ERA
The most established
historic classes of philately like Traditional and Postal History seem to have
reached a point of stagnation as procurement of new material has become
very difficult and also requires huge money. No doubt some of the postal
history and traditional material do keep coming on the surface due to the
introduction of eBay, different net sales platforms and social media usage for
sales of philatelic material. But even then it has limitations. The other major
reason is that the available material is very costly. This has slowly led
to disinterest in these classes. However, now it’s time for Thematic
Philately having amalgamation of some percentage of Postal History and
Traditional Philately material also. Modern Philately comprising Modern Postal
History and the various new classes introduced in recent years is
strongly touching the hearts of stamp collectors and new philatelists.
Due to this reason Thematic class has emerged as the most popular philatelic
class today which has much to deliver in terms of its scope of
collection, variety of material, numerous subjects and topics as it offers
different size of collection and exhibiting.
Well, you might wonder why
I have called the recent era as Amritkaal thematic as golden class? The reason
is simple and evident. Thematic which was considered as the least
important class of philately about 40 years back slowly gained recognition but
until 2011 no
Indian could even receive the glittering GOLD in National Exhibition and until
2022 an International exhibition in this class. However, before this even in
the National Exhibitions in India it was hard to get GOLD when for the
first time Late Dr. Satyendra Agrawal, a good friend of mine got first ever
GOLD in this class in INPEX 2011. And from there and then the journey to GOLD
started in India. Mr. Dinesh Sharma ,Mr. Illyas Patel, Mr. Lallan Singh and
many others followed the same in following National Exhibitions..
This led to the
establishment of a belief that GOLD is quite achievable at International
Exhibitions also. And the great moment in the Indian Thematic field came
when Mr. Anand Kakad, the first Indian who received first ever GOLD in 5 frame
thematic exhibit in Hunfilex 2022, a FIP World Stamp Exhibition. And recently
the great news came when Mr Lallan Singh a veteran but dedicated philatelist
brought laurels to India by getting yet another GOLD in the same class
for India in 8 frame exhibiting in Phila Korea 2025, World Stamp
exhibition. So I can say now that the tradition has been set for the GOLD
in Thematic class. While searching the award lists of past exhibitions, I
could find a good number of philatelists from India who were awarded
Large Vermeil in past International shows in this class . To
name a few Mr. Ilyas Patel, Mr. Pratisad Naogaonkar, Mr. Dinesh Sharma and many
others in row who are all set for adding more GOLDS in Indian Award cart as
GOLD is quite achievable now.
It is certain that the
journey from LV to Gold is tough, painstaking, and needs extreme
dedication and continuous hard work. Of course, it needs a big pocket and
good luck too. But as Indian Philatelists have learnt to get the gold in
International; I can proudly state the AMRITKAAL of thematic philately
in India has come.
While concluding my write
up ,I wish to place my heartiest congratulations to Mr. Lallan Singh, a
dedicated sincere and hard working philatelist from Patna for getting GOLD in
PhilaKorea 2025 in 8 frames exhibiting in thematic class. His achievement has not
only brought laurels to India but will certainly help to motivate and guide the
Gold aspirants who are just very close to the Glittering award. And will also
help promote philately in the future. I am lucky to have his valued
interview where he very openly shared with us his journey to the
INTERNATIONAL GOLD. At this juncture I do remember Mr. Anand Kakkad who
brought first ever International Gold for India in 5 frame thematic exhibiting
. I was lucky enough to have his interview also. I wish all my philatelic
friends who are just a few points away from GOLD. My best wishes for them for
their future endeavours.
With
this I say “Long live Thematic philately”.
-Naresh Agrawal, Bilaspur (C.G.) email nareshkumar1992@yahoo.co.in Mob / WhatsApp: 09425530514
Recent Indian Issues
2 August2025 : 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)
New Special Cover
22 September 2025: Bhoota Kolaon : Bengaluru
A Special cover was released on 22 September 2025 featuring Bhoota Kolaon. A worshiping Ritual from Karnataka, represented in the National Award-winning Movie Kantara.
New Special Cancellations and Picture
Postcards
27
September 2025 : World Tourism Day: Thiruvananthapuram
29
September 2025 : World Heart Day : Mangalore
Karnataka Postal Circle released a
special cancellation on 29th September 2025 to celebrate World Heart Day. This
cancellation was made available at all Bureaus and other Head Post offices in
Karnataka.
Picture
Postcard and Special Cancellation: International Day of Sign Languages:
Chhattisgarh
Pili Nalike
Prathishtana
A Picture Post Card was released on the occasion of 10 years of Pilike Nallike Prathishtana at Mangalore on 1st October 2025.
In The News
Recent Stamp Exhibitions
AUSVIPEX -2025
Exhibition
Website https://ausvipex2025.com
For all enquiries email: Ausvipex2025@gmail.com
PHILAKOREA 2025 Specialised World Stamp Championship
Exhibition
From 17
- 21 September, 2025 At COEX Le West Convention Center in Seoul, Rep. of Korea.
Indian Winners
Row 1 : 1. Lallan Prasad Singh 2. Aditya Asthana 3. Sushil Mehra 4.Piyush Khaitan 5. Capt. Vijay Wadhwa 5.Vijay Seth
Row 2. 1. Savita Jhigan 2. Madhukar Jingan 3. Pratisad
Neurogoankar 4. Dinesh Sharma 5. Dinesh Kanabar 6. Jaagruthi Adka
Lallan Singh Wins Gold for his exhibit 'Hows and whys
of Birds'
Congratulations!!
The news covered by BBC Hindi on the achievement of Mr
Lallan Singh. View : https://www.youtube.com/shorts/mG-VdVMEy0M
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
PHILATAIPEI 2026
FIP Patronage General World
Dates: 19 - 24 Nov 2026
News
from Philatelists and Philatelic Societies
Air Mail Society India Foundation
We are delighted to share that AMSIPEX-26 has received confirmed patronage from the International Federation of Aero- and Astrophilatelic Societies (F.I.A.S.).
The entry form
for the World Single-Frame Exhibits Team Championship (Class 3.3) is now
live.
This championship allows three exhibitors from a single
country/society/club to form a team, with each member submitting one
single-frame exhibit under Class 3.2.13 – Single-Frame.
Exhibitors will continue to be eligible for individual medals, and the
team scores will be aggregated, with medals awarded to the team, society, or
country achieving the highest aggregate team score.No additional entry fee for
the Team Championship.
You can submit your entries by visiting www.amsipex.com
Covers
by AMSI
AXIOM Mission 4
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla,
Indian Astronaut
Commemorative Cover from
Pradip Jain
Commemorative Cover from
Pradip Jain
Commemorative Cover : 17 September
2025 :
75th Birthday of PM Narendra Modi dedicated to Matri Shakti
Interview
It is my pleasure to publish the interview of Mr
Lallan Prasad Sigh who recently won a Gold Medal in Thematic Class at Phila
Korea 2025, Seoul. It is a proud moment for Indian Philatelic Community as to
win a Gold Medal in World Stamp Exhibition is a great achievement. Mr Lallan
Singh is a great inspiration to all thematic philatelists who dream to win a Gold
Medal in an International Exhibition. Mr Naresh Agrawal talked to him and asked
questions about different aspects of philately and his long philatelic journey
to the Gold ! -Editor
Interview
with International Gold medal winner - Lallan Singh by Naresh Agrawal
Lallan Prasad Singh
Date of Birth: 1st April, 1946
Place of Birth: Bihar, India
Education: MSc. Engineering (Civil), North Eastern
University, USA
Profession: Deputy Chief Engineer, Planning and
Development, Bridge Construction Corporation (Retired)
Hobbies: Besides philately, Astrology, Gardening,
Photography, Writing poems (Hindi) and Short Stories ( English and Hindi)(A
published writer)
Philatelic Publication: 7 articles on different
themes were published in Topical Times of the American Topical Association
between 2001 and 2003.
Awards in Philately: a. Thematic Philately- Hows and
Whys of Birds-In State: Championship's Trophy in 2004, National Gold in 8
frames in 2017, FIP International Gold in Seoul in 2025.
Other awarded Thematic Exhibits: The Four Seasons,
Your Health is Where your heart is (single frame), History of European
Paintings (single frame)
b. Traditional Philately: Twin Cobra Overprints and
snake cancellation of Gwalior-Single frame-Silver at London-2010 FiP
Lallan Prasad Singh - Email : singhlallan@yahoo.com
 |
1. Thank you very much for
sparing your valuable time for Rainbow and our readers. We do understand your
recent achievement, and your deep philatelic interest at this age of yours will
not only motivate the new upcoming and thematic philatelists, but will also
help promote philately. Well, please tell us in brief something about you, your
family, and your upbringing.
I was born and raised in a middle-class family in
Bihar, India. As my father was a government officer with a transferable job, my
childhood was spent moving from one town to another, which gave me varied
experiences and shaped my outlook on life. He retired as an Assistant
Commissioner in the Commercial Taxes Department and was also well known as a
Hindi poet, playwright, and translator.
I grew up in a family where literature and learning
were greatly valued. My elder sister is a noted Hindi writer, one of my younger
brothers (now deceased) was a physician, and the youngest retired as an IPS
officer.
I am blessed with three sons. My eldest is a software
engineer in the USA, my second son is a physician in New Delhi, and my youngest
is an Associate Vice President at Titan Industries.
Professionally, I retired as Deputy Chief Engineer
from the Bihar Bridge Construction Corporation, where I devoted my career to
building and improving infrastructure in the state.
2. Before we ask anything specific, please accept our
heartiest congratulations for your achievement, i.e., an International GOLD in
Thematic Class in…….. Seoul this year. Please tell us about getting into
this beautiful hobby of stamp collecting and exhibiting.
I came into stamp collecting rather late, in my early
thirties around 1966–67. My first brush with stamps, however, goes back to my
student days in Engineering College, when I used to look for used stamps for my
younger brother who was interested in collecting. Later, after joining the
Public Works Department, I began collecting Indian stamps more seriously from
the GPO in Patna, where I also met Mr. Pradip Jain for the first time.
A real boost came when I started corresponding with
pen pals from around the world. I still recall the joy of receiving foreign
letters bearing colourful stamps, something rare in India at that time when
multicoloured printing had not yet begun. The postman himself knew of my
excitement — he would often wave a foreign letter from a distance while I
eagerly waited at the door. From my modest salary, I set aside ten rupees a
month to pursue this passion.
Right from the beginning, I was drawn to thematic
collecting. Birds were my first love, followed by flowers and paintings. My
albums soon featured beautiful stamps depicting the works of French, Italian,
and Dutch masters issued by France.
In 1975, I was posted to a small town near Bhagalpur, but continued to visit Patna regularly to collect stamps and FDCs. When the first stamp exhibition in Bihar, BIPEX 1976, was announced, I prepared an exhibit titled “How’s and Why’s of Birds” — a name the exhibit still proudly carries. With no mentor to guide me, I relied on a book about birds. The pages were made on quadrille sheets, with stamps affixed using hinges or mounts, and the write-up done in my own handwriting. I even added freehand sketches for decoration, not realizing at the time that such embellishments were not permitted.
I still remember arriving one warm November morning at Wheeler Senate Hall, Patna, the venue of BIPEX 1976. As I got down from the rickshaw, Mr. Pradip Jain, walking out of the hall, greeted me with a smile and said, “Lallan Ji, you have won a medal?” I had indeed — a Bronze, one of the few medals awarded at that exhibition. The jury, presided over by the late Dr. D. N. Jatia, explained the basics of exhibiting to us in the jury session. That was my very first lesson in the art of exhibiting.
3. We understand you have
other interests and hobbies like poetry and Story writing, Photography,
Astrology, Gardening, etc. Also, please tell us about those and also how much
time and attention you give to those hobbies, as we understand your major spare
time goes to Philately.
Having different hobbies, in fact, complements rather
than competes with one another. Each one refreshes the mind and rejuvenates the
other. I try not to waste time; every moment of my day is meaningfully occupied
until I go to bed. Everything receives attention as and when required.
Philately naturally demands more time, especially when
I am preparing an exhibit. Gardening fits easily into my daily routine — I
spend some time in the garden in the mornings and evenings, while the regular
upkeep is looked after by the gardener. Poetry, on the other hand, comes
spontaneously whenever inspiration strikes, while story writing requires
thoughtful planning and execution — in a way, it is quite similar to building a
philatelic exhibit.
It may be difficult to explain how I manage all of
these interests, but I believe that when one is truly passionate, time finds
its own rhythm.
4. At this age of about
80years, you still work hard on philately for almost every day for nothing less
than 5 to 6 hours while pursuing other hobbies. How do you manage it? At the
same time, the core secret of your health and working strategy?
(Laughs) Five to six hours a day on philately? Not at
all! That only happens in the months leading up to an exhibition. Otherwise, I
spend just a few hours here and there, whenever time permits. Of course, during
exhibition preparation, the work becomes more intensive.
My day usually begins at 6 a.m. with an hour of yoga
and pranayama, something I have faithfully practiced for the past 50 years. In
the evenings, I go for a brisk one-hour walk. This routine has been the core
secret of my good health and steady energy.
As I mentioned, I dedicate long hours to philately only about three months before an exhibition. The last three years — since London 2022, then Effiro 2024, and most recently Korea 2025 — have been especially demanding and kept me very busy. Now, having achieved a Gold at Korea, I feel a little more relaxed and able to balance my time more evenly between philately and my other interests.
Receiving medal at BIPEX 2024
5. As we understand, you are the second Indian philatelist to receive GOLD in the International FIP exhibition in the Thematic class. We are not only happy Indian philatelists but are proud of your achievement too. We would like to hear from you, how and what you feel after this achievement.
As far as I know, I am the first Indian to receive a
Gold in an International FIP exhibition in a thematic class in 8 frames. Seldom
do exhibitors get Gold in fewer than 8 frames at an International FIP
exhibition, but where the theme is a subject in which only a limited number of
items are available, and the jurors think that even fewer than 8 is enough. I
know one such exhibit from the UK, The Grey Goose Wings, that won Gold at a FIP
International exhibition in 5 frames.
In the Indian National Exhibition also after getting
LV in 5 frames, you have to exhibit in 8 frames for Gold. After getting LV for
this very exhibit at INPEX-2008, I was refused entry in 2012 with 5 frames.
Finally, I exhibited in INPEX-2017 in 8 frames and got national Gold.
Most joy you get while on the journey. After you reach
the goal, it is more of a relaxation. Every item in my exhibit has a history
behind its search and procurement, and the pleasure I got from receiving it.
That feeling is treasured in my memory, and that is the satisfaction you get by
exhibiting.
6. Please tell us about
your philatelic journey right from inception till your highest achievement,
i.e., GOLD. We do understand this will be full of hardships, patience,
systematic learning and improvement, and a lot of effort pertaining to the
procurement of material, getting information, searching, and researching. And
also, your advice to such aspirants?
I first exhibited in 1976 at BIPEX-1976 (Bihar
Philatelic Exhibition), with the same title that still defines my journey:
“How’s and Why’s of Birds.” The jury included Mr. D.N. Jatia, who later became
President of FIP, and I was awarded a bronze medal.
In 1979, I left for the USA for higher studies, and my philatelic
journey paused for a few years. On my return to India in 1985, I resumed
collecting and exhibiting at state-level exhibitions. A turning point came in
2002, when the late Dr. R.S. Gandhi, one of the most respected philatelists
from Patna, encouraged me to participate in the FIP World Exhibition in
Bangkok. There, I was introduced to FIP guidelines for exhibitors and connected
with Dr. Gian Carlo Morolli, then President of the FIP Thematic Commission. His
guidance helped me shape my first proper exhibit, and at Bangkok-2003, I won a
Silver medal—my first at an FIP exhibition. The following year, I won the
Championship Award at BIPEX-2004.
INDIPEX 2011
Progress thereafter was far from easy. International exhibition allotments were difficult to secure, and I had to patiently build my collection, purchasing material bit by bit without overburdening my resources. I was fortunate to receive guidance from senior thematic exhibitors, both in India and abroad—Dr. Satyendra Agarwal was one of the very few active Indian thematic collectors/exhibitors at that time.
In 2008, I exhibited a one-page thematic display in
Romania and won Bronze, followed by a Large Vermeil at INDIPEX-2008. I also
tried my hand at traditional philately, preparing a one-page exhibit on “The
Twin Cobra Overprints and Snake Cancellation of Gwalior (George V)” for
London-2010, winning a Silver. The news of getting silver at the London 2010
had come through an email from Mr. Pradip Jain.
INDIPEX-2011 marked a major leap forward. After eight
years of steady learning and selective acquisitions, my exhibit improved by ten
points, achieving 80 (Vermeil). The jury discussions there taught me valuable
lessons, especially about presentation. But further progress was hindered by a
lack of frame allotments until Brasilia-2017, where I again received Vermeil,
despite significant improvements. Disappointed but not discouraged, I began
consulting international bird-themed exhibitors and actively sought rare,
appropriate materials from auctions and friends overseas.
This effort bore fruit at China-2019, where I received
a Large Vermeil. The jury recognized major improvements in the appropriate
philatelic material area, though my storytelling still lagged.
The next milestone was London-2020, where I
transitioned from 5 to 8 frames—always a critical and risky stage. I was
fortunate to acquire enough quality material to expand successfully, though
changing the plan later proved to be an error. Unfortunately, COVID-19
postponed the exhibition. I was hospitalized for 15 days in October 2020 with
severe illness, and could hardly walk after recovery. But since my exhibit was
ready before falling ill, I could still participate when London-2022 finally
took place.
That exhibition gave me 87 points (Large Vermeil).
Many considered this a strong result for a first 8-frame attempt, but I was
dissatisfied. Overconfidence crept in, and despite three more
attempts—including IBRA-2023—I kept repeating the same mistakes, receiving LV
each time.
At IBRA-2023, I sought detailed feedback from the Jury
Team Leader, Dr. Gian Carlo Morolli. He pinpointed weaknesses in plan and
development—areas that become decisive at higher levels. With little time
before EFIRO-2024, I managed to correct 50 pages, and my effort was rewarded
with 14/15 in Thematic Knowledge, a personal best.
Finally, I paused exhibiting for almost a year,
rebuilt the exhibit afresh as per expert advice, and added significant missing
material. This transformation culminated at Korea-2025, where I was awarded my
first Gold medal. The congratulatory words of Dr. Morolli summed it all up:
“I share your happiness for your first Gold medal, as
it is a reward for your constant dedication and passionate love for philately.
Congratulations on the achievement and good luck with your future philatelic
journeys.”
My
advice to aspirants is
simple:
Be patient, study FIP guidelines carefully, and build your exhibit step by
step. Acquire material gradually without straining your resources, and seek
guidance from experienced exhibitors. At the higher levels, success depends not
only on rarity but on thoughtful planning, coherent development, and
storytelling. Above all, never lose your passion for philately—it is the love
of the subject that carries you through setbacks and disappointments, all the
way to Gold.
7. We understand that
collecting and exhibiting are the two main aspects of philately. Your opinion
about these two aspects and advice on how to and what to collect, and then a
bit on exhibiting.
Collecting and exhibiting are indeed two distinct but
closely related aspects of philately. One cannot exhibit without first
collecting. To put it simply, collecting is like growing wheat, while
exhibiting is like making chapati from it. Both processes are important, but
they require different approaches and skills.
Collecting is a personal journey. It is driven by joy,
curiosity, and passion, without the need to follow strict rules. You are free
to collect whatever interests you—be it stamps, postal stationery,
cancellations, or covers. This freedom is what makes collecting so rewarding,
as it reflects your own tastes and enthusiasm.
Exhibiting, however, is a more structured endeavor. It
requires adherence to well-defined guidelines depending on the class in which
you wish to exhibit. Exhibiting is not merely about displaying a collection—it
is about telling a story through philatelic material, showcasing items that are
unusual, rarely seen, or significant in the chosen theme. In doing so, you not
only share knowledge but also give visitors an opportunity to appreciate
philately in a new light.
Collecting offers pure happiness, while exhibiting
takes that joy a step further. It brings the satisfaction of transforming a
personal collection into something meaningful, educational, and unique.
Exhibiting allows you to contribute to the philatelic community by presenting
your research, creativity, and vision.
8. We understand exhibiting
is an art to not only display but also to talk about your exhibit to the jury,
showing your best related, good variety of material, following the set rules
and guidelines. Your opinion on our statement and experience will enlighten us.
Please also put light on how this art can be skilfully mastered to achieve the
best results in exhibition, or say, can help to impress the jury?
Believe me, there is no set formula to master the art
of exhibiting. You learn along the way step by step. The FIP guidelines are the
key. I have seen very few Indian philatelists care about FIP guidelines, and
few of those who care do not fully understand them. Though it is written in
plain and simple English but you have to read between the lines. The FIP keeps
on interpreting it differently from time to time. There has been no change
since 2002, but in 2018, it was explained in detail in a different manner. From
one FIP exhibition to the next, the standard of exhibiting enhances.
To study award-winning exhibits is another way to
learn. If the exhibit is on a similar topic to yours, it is still better. From
that exhibit, you can also learn how many different types of philatelic items
are available on that topic. For a philatelist from India who wishes to be a
thematic exhibitor to make overseas contact is a must.
One who is aspiring to be a thematic exhibitor has to
select a topic of their interest that might be related to their profession. I
know an exhibitor from abroad who won a Gold for his exhibit ‘I love Chicken’.
He has a family poultry farm. Another exhibitor from Germany, who collects
items related to shoes and plans to make an exhibit, titled ‘Step by Step’, is
an HR head in a shoe company. Hope the readers will understand what I am
hinting at. I know an exhibitor from India who has won LV in 8 frames for his
bridge exhibit. He is a bridge engineer. Go through the FIP thematic guidelines
as many times as possible and take their help while preparing your
exhibit.
One more thing about selecting a topic. You must check
before going ahead whether different types of philatelic materials have been
issued globally on your selected topic or not. If your search suggests in
negative, please leave that topic. I remember one exhibitor from India was
explaining to the jury during the jury session in INDIPEX-2011 that he did not
find a different material issue globally on his topic. The jury replied,
“Change your topic.” This is clearly covered in FIP guidelines.
After selecting the topic of your choice, think of a
title. The same topic might have two different titles and an entirely new
story. For example, a title like ‘Making of a Buddha’ will have a different
story than a theme title, ‘Teaching of Buddha after Enlightenment’, though both
topic is related to Buddha.
After the title is selected, carefully think of a
plan. It is just like the table of contents of a book. The plan will have
different chapters, and each chapter will cover different aspects of your theme
which you want to cover.
Plan every page carefully and select material
accordingly. No need to hurry. It will take some time before you are ready to
finally make your exhibit. Try to get at least a vermeil at the National level
before applying for an International Exhibition.
Each page should cover a minimum of 3 philatelic
elements, not just stamps. Make your plan in such a manner that the best
materials appear in the first 16 and last 16 pages. The jury will first see
these pages. It is a tough job, and here there are no shortcuts nor free lunch.
And this all will also cost a lot. But it will give satisfaction beyond your
expectations. If you are ready for all this, only then venture into being an
exhibitor; otherwise, enjoy collecting and be happy.
9. Thematic philately was
once not considered as the main class of philately, and later in the eighties,
it started getting recognition, but even till 4 years back, it was considered
that getting GOLD in thematic was not possible. But this has been proved to be
false. With the 4.5th generation thematic exhibiting in practice, and also the
amalgamation of other classes' material, it also becomes more challenging.
What’s your opinion and way, and advice in this context?
For India, winning Gold in thematic philately has
historically been extremely difficult, and even today, very few exhibitors are
close to achieving it. Globally, however, thematic Gold winners are numerous,
showing that success is indeed possible with dedication, research, and the
right resources. In Korea-2025, in the thematic class (Nature), only one Gold
was from India, but there were 4 others from all over the world.
In India, several factors make this pursuit
particularly challenging. Access to appropriate material is limited, and too
much reliance is placed on the India Post for organizing exhibitions.
Unfortunately, philatelic culture in India remains weak: no national
exhibitions have been held since 2019, and hosting an FIP international
exhibition is still a distant goal. BIPEX-2024 was organized after 12 years.
Additionally, postal authorities often issue first-day covers and stationery
that are not fully usable for thematic exhibits, making it difficult for
collectors to enrich their displays meaningfully.
Another obstacle is the lack of senior thematic
exhibitors who can mentor and guide newcomers. As a result, anyone aspiring to
become a thematic exhibitor in India must largely navigate the journey on their
own. Success requires patience, creativity, and proactive effort to source
appropriate material, often through international contacts or auctions.
Despite these challenges, thematic philately is a
deeply rewarding pursuit. It encourages research, storytelling, and the
development of a unique perspective, and with persistence, achieving Gold is
not just a dream but an attainable reality.
10. Tell us about your
future goals in philately, and also your advice to the new philatelists and to
the thematic philatelists who are aspirants of GOLD, while you may uncover the
secret of your success.
At present, I have not set long-term goals beyond
continuing my philatelic journey. In the near future, I plan to exhibit at
Dubai-2026, an FIP International exhibition. There, I will also present a new
thematic exhibit in Class 7, four frames, titled “The Four Seasons.”
As I have emphasized earlier, the key to achieving
Gold is hard work, dedication, and patience. Success also requires a
willingness to invest time and resources—quality material and careful planning
are indispensable. As the late Dr. R.S. Gandhi once said to me in a lighter
vein, “Lallan ji, GOLD pane ke liye, exhibit mein GOLD dalna bhee parta hai.” (
Lallan Ji To win Gold one has to put Gold in the exhibit)
For aspiring philatelists, my advice is simple: follow
your passion, learn continuously, study FIP guidelines, seek mentorship
whenever and wherever possible, and approach exhibiting as both an art and a
science. With persistence, careful research, and thoughtful storytelling, Gold
is not just a dream but a reachable milestone.
Interview by Naresh Agrawal
Specialized Section
Col.
Jayanta Dutta was an eminent philatelist. He wrote several articles with his
wife Dr Anjali Dutta who is a renowned philatelist, contributed a series of
articles for Rainbow Stamp News. I am
pleased to publish one of his articles published in Rainbow few years back.- Editor
Carriage of Indian Navy Official Mail
-Late Col J Dutta & Dr Anjali Dutta
During a meeting of a philatelic society in a pastoral area just outside Pune, a question was asked as to how naval mail is carried. Well, arcadian settings are a stimulus for such out of the box thought. We immediately shared our knowledge with some covers, which we would like to share with the readers.
All official mail from various originators is sent to the nearest Fleet Mail Office where a round handstamp (hs) is applied and the date entered in manuscript. Fig 1
Fig 1
The Fleet Mail Office delivers the mail to the Army Post Office (A.P.O.) Schedule Dispatch Service (S.D.S.) which actually sends the mail to the addressee.
Fig 2 is an OIGS (On India
Government Service) registered cover originating from Communication Center,
Bombay (now Mumbai) on 27 April (2004) which was received at Fleet Mail Office,
Mumbai on 28 April 2004. Fleet Mail Office, Mumbai sent the cover to
A.P.O.S.D.S. Mumbai where the oblong RL hs were applied with date 28 April
2004. The article was delivered at A.P.O. Pune on 29 April 2004 vide hs on
reverse. The diameter of the Fleet Mail Office hs is 25mm.
Fig 3 is an OIGS registered cover from Communication Center, Bombay for Pune via Fleet Mail Office, Mumbai and A.P.O.S.D.S. Mumbai which has larger Fleet Mail Office hs with diameter of 30mm.
Fig 4 is a cover originating from Cochin (now Kochi) for Pune which passed through Fleet Mail Office, Mumbai and A.P.O.S.D.S. Mumbai. Lower flap of cover opened to show A.P.O. Mumbai S.D.S. ccds.
Fig 4
Indian Birds on Stamps
-Col J Dutta & Dr Anjali Dutta
Over the years India Post has released a number of stamps on birds indigenous to India. They make an interesting collection and a fascinating topic for study. They truly represent the fauna of our country and are a grand display of the natural history of India for the world to see.
The first Indian stamps on birds were issued on 31 December 1968. It was a set of four stamps namely, 20p blue magpie (Urocissa crythrorhyncha), 50p brown-fronted wood-pecker (Dendrocopos auriceps), 1 Re white browed scimitar babbler (Pomatorhinus schisticeps) and 2 Rs crimson sunbird (Aethopyga siparaja).
The blue magpie (Urocissa crythrorhyncha), is about the size of a pigeon with the two central feathers of the tail 15 to 17 inches long. The head, neck and breast are black and underparts greyish white. The tail feathers are tipped white. The bill and the legs are crimson. The male and the female are alike. It is found throughout the Himalayas, up to an altitude of about 10,000 feet. This magpie is a common bird at all West Himalayan hill stations. Its flight is noisy and slow, but with the long tail spread, a bird in flight makes a charming spectacle. It is about the same size as the Eurasian magpie but has a much longer tail, one of the longest tails of any corvid.
Male and
Female
The brown-fronted wood-pecker (Dendrocoptes auriceps) is a hill bird, is about 8 inches long and is common in the forests of Western Himalayas, at elevations between 2000 and 7000 feet. Its back is cross-barred black and white. There is a red patch under the tail. The crown in the male is golden-brown in front, crimson behind. The female lacks these colours on its head.
Male and female
The crimson sunbird (Aethopyga siparaja) is the size of a sparrow, this is a brilliantly coloured, purple, green and crimson sunbird, with a long pointed metallic green tail and a distinctive yellow rump. It is found in moist evergreen forests throughout India. It flits about restlessly like a gem in the sunshine among shrubs, sometimes hanging upside down to probe into flowers for nectar. It also feeds on insects and spiders. Most species can take nectar by hovering like a hummingbird, but usually perch to feed most of the time.
31 December 1968 Bird stamps on a First Day Cover. Note that the postmark incorporates a bird
Beginners’ Section
Start of Modern FDC Collecting
October 4, 1922
The first stamp to picture Hayes, it features a photo by Matthew Brady.
On October 4, 1922, an 11¢ Hayes stamp was issued on a specific date in
a specific city for the first time. Many consider this to be the start of
modern First Day Cover Collecting.
Prior to this event, the Post Office Department didn’t often designate
specific dates for the issue of new stamps. Only a few had a set first day of
issue, and most of those were commemoratives. There were some first day covers
as early as 1851, but they were not specifically prepared like the First Day
Covers we know today.
A major step in the evolution of First Day Covers came in 1922. Then-Assistant Postmaster General W. Irving Glover announced that “henceforth every new stamp issued will have a designated first day of issue.” The first stamp issued under this new policy was #E12, the 10¢ Special Delivery stamp, on July 12, 1922, in Washington, DC.
During this time, the
Post Office had also begun plans on a new series of definitive stamps, the
Series of 1922, also known as the Fourth Bureau Issue. The stamps were to
replace the Washington-Franklins, which had been in use since 1908. Part of the
reason for the new series was to help postal workers, who had difficulty
quickly identifying the face-same Washington-Franklin stamps.
The new series would
honor several presidents and prominent Americans as well as notable American
sites and scenes. This would also be the last series of stamps printed on the
flat plate press as the post office switched to the rotary press.
The Post Office spent
several months debating the honorees for the new series and ultimately decided
the first stamp would honor President Rutherford B. Hayes. As 1922 marked his
100th birthday, they wanted to issue the stamp on his birthday in his hometown.
To meet that schedule, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing had to rush to
print the stamp. The die wasn’t finished until September 28, and the stamps
went to press on September 30, the same day the first plate was approved. A
limited number of stamps were in the first printing – less than a quarter of a
million.
On October 4, 1922, the stamp was issued in a small ceremony in Fremont, Ohio, where Hayes was born. While the Special Delivery stamp issued earlier in the year had been issued on a pre-determined date, the Hayes stamp was the first issued in a city with a special connection to the stamp under the Post Office’s new rule. It was also the first public First Day Ceremony and the first with a mimeographed program. During the ceremony, the “first sheet” was sold to Scott Hayes, the son of the former president.
Many collectors consider the Hayes stamp
to mark the start of modern First Day Cover collecting. For these early issues,
collectors would need to know the issue date to identify them as first day
covers. It wasn’t until 1937 that the words “First Day of Issue” were added to
cancels to make identifying FDCs easier.
Literature Section
Article 1: Competitive Exhibits In
accordance with Article 1.4 and 5.3 of the General Regulations of the FIP for
the Evaluation of Competitive Exhibits at FIP Exhibitions (GREV), these Special
Regulations have been developed to supplement those principles with regard to
the Philatelic Literature. For further details, refer to the Guidelines for
Judging Philatelic Literature.
Article 2 Classification of Exhibits 2.1
Philatelic literature exhibit can be any publication (monograph, periodical or
digital media), that is related to • the investigative research in the field of
philately and/or • the documentation, the education and the promotion of
philately. 2.2 Philatelic Literature can be divided into three categories. •
Monographs • Periodicals • Digital media Detailed information about these
categories is given in the Guidelines. Article 3: Criteria for Evaluating
Exhibits Literature exhibits will be evaluated according to the following
criteria: Treatment of Contents Requires an evaluation of the literary style,
clarity, and skill in communication shown in the exhibit,
Originality, significance, depth of research Requires an evaluation of the overall significance of the subject matter presented in the exhibit, as well as the degree to which the exhibit displays original discoveries, research, analysis or approaches to a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. Technical matters Require an evaluation of the overall standards of the exhibit. Presentation Requires an evaluation of the general layout and clarity of the exhibit.
Article
4: Judging of Exhibits 4.1 Literature exhibits will be judged by FIP accredited
jurors in accordance with Section V of GREX. Literature judges should have a
reading ability in at least two languages, one of which must be any of the
official FIP languages (Article 29.1 of the Statutes). Furthermore, at least
one of the jurors has to have good skills in using digital media. 4.2 For
Literature exhibits, the following relative terms are presented to lead the
Jury to a balanced evaluation:
Treatment
of contents 40
Originality,
significance and depth of research 40
Technical
matters 15
Presentation
5
Total
100
Article
5: Concluding Provision 5.1 In the event of any discrepancies in the text
arising from translation, the English text shall prevail. 5.2 These Special
Regulations for the Evaluation of Philatelic Literature Exhibits at FIP
Exhibitions have been confirmed by the Literature Bureau on 19 July 2022. It
was approved by the FIP Board on 8 August 2022 in Jakarta, Indonesia and
ratified during the 76th FIP Congress on 10 August 2022 in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Guidelines for Judging Philatelic Literature
Introduction
These
guidelines are intended as a checklist which is detailed enough to be of
service for specialized literature exhibitions as well as for general
philatelic exhibitions in which literature is only one of several classes.
General Principles While the majority of the principles in exhibiting
philatelic literature is identical to those which apply to other philatelic
classes as well, there are certain distinct differences. In the first place,
the significance and importance of a piece of literature cannot be seen from
the outside. Literature must be judged by its content, and obviously the judges
have to be familiar with that content before the start of the exhibition. While
the three to five days available for judging will allow time for review and
some reading, it in no way suffices for each judge to read each entry
thoroughly. Second, literature exhibits cannot be taken apart and improved from
one show to the next. In many cases, the exhibit represents a lifetime of
research and effort which will serve philately for years to come. For this
reason, the exhibiting of philatelic literature must be looked at primarily as
a means of encouraging and promoting such literary efforts, and only
secondarily as a competition for various levels of awards. Third, it follows
that the public must be able to examine the literature. A glance at a row
of books in a locked case gives little information, and is a disservice to the
viewer and the exhibitor. It is the content that is of interest, not the
covers. The FIP has developed a comprehensive set of regulations for evaluating
philatelic exhibits, incorporating those FIP principles common to all
competitive classes. For philatelic literature, these principles are expressed
in the Special Regulations for the Evaluation of Philatelic Literature Exhibits
at FIP Exhibitions. They are supplemented by provisions which recognize aspects
of philatelic literature which are unique to this class, the Supplementary
Rules for the Philatelic Literature Class in FIP exhibitions.
Categories of Philatelic Literature
Philatelic
Literature can be divided into three categories.
a.
Monographs
Monographs
are detailed written studies of a single specialized subject or an aspect of
it. They include · bibliographies, · special studies, handbooks and other similar publications,
· general or specialized non-periodical catalogues, · specialized auction catalogues, · documentation of collections, · exhibition catalogues, ·
documents from lectures, · collections of articles forming an
independent entity.
b.
Periodicals
Periodicals
are publications that appear regularly. They include · magazines or journals published weekly, monthly or other
regular intervals, · catalogues published in regular
intervals, · auction catalogues published in regular
intervals, · yearbooks and similar publications.
c.
Digital
media
Digital
media include all kinds of digitally produced and used publications that comply
with Article 2 of SREV. These cannot be defined precisely because of the
continuous development of technology, but they include for example
· Websites,
· Applications or software.
Use of
the Evaluation System
The use of a
point system, together with appropriate "scoring sheets", can be
helpful in reaching balanced and rational evaluations. However, it must be
emphasized that such a system cannot be applied mechanically; the final point
totals also must be looked at in terms of the overall quality of the exhibits.
Printed and digital media have two different scoring approaches.
A.
Scoring categories and considerations of printed monographs and periodicals
Treatment of contents – Authorship · How well is story identified &
told? · Evaluation
of literary style, clarity ·
Skill in communication Originality, significance, depth of research –
Philatelic Aspects ·
Overall significance = global importance to philately · Degree of original discoveries,
research, analysis ·
Comprehensive = depth & scope · Understanding of subject Technical
matters – Editorial aspect ·
How well is work constructed? · Title page, imprint, pagination, list
of contents, use of footnotes · Acknowledgements, bibliography, index
& use of illustrations & tables - captions, consistency in layout &
text PRESENTATION – Publishing aspect · Effect of binding, clarity of print,
paper quality, page size ·
Use of colour in illustrations
Scoring
categories and considerations of digital media
B.
Digital monographs and periodicals
Treatment
of contents – Authorship ·
Clarity of writing style ·
Chapter structure ·
Quality of illustrations ·
Index ·
Searchability ·
Footnotes · Use of
hyperlinks · Navigation
around digital document. Originality, significance, depth of research –
Philatelic Aspects ·
Overall significance = global importance to philately · Degree of original discoveries,
research, analysis (new or revised research) · Comprehensive = depth & scope
(depth of coverage of subject) · Understanding of subject. Technical
matters – Editorial aspect ·
Typography · Ease of
obtaining product ·
Medium (e.g. USB drive, DVD, CD, download) · Platform (e.g. PC, Mac, iPad, phone) · Compatibility with current and old
versions of operating systems. Presentation – Publishing aspect · Visual appearance; · Adherence to disability guidelines re
use of colour.
C.
Websites
Treatment
of contents – Authorship ·
Usability ·
Functionality ·
Data content · Navigation
· Pagination · Page structure · Appropriate use of free v restricted
pages ·
Searchability. Originality, significance, depth of research – Philatelic
Aspects · Creativity
· Breadth of scope covered. Technical
matters – Editorial aspect ·
Platform (e.g. PC, Mac, iPad, phone); · Compatibility with current and old
versions of operating systems. Presentation – Publishing aspect · Visual appearance; · Adherence to disability guidelines re
use of colour.
D.
Applications or Software
Treatment
of contents – Authorship ·
Technical innovation; ·
How much of the software is original development v packaged use of standard IT
tools. Originality, significance, depth of research – Philatelic Aspects · Usability · Functionality of philatelic aspects of
product ·
Navigation. Technical matters – Editorial aspect · Ease of obtaining product · Medium (e.g. USB drive, DVD, CD,
download) · Platform
(e.g. PC, Mac, iPad, phone) ·
Compatibility with current and old versions of operating systems. Presentation
– Publishing aspect ·
Visual appearance; ·
Adherence to disability guidelines re use of colour
Two
aspects of the thought process in judging are worth stressing
First,
judges should look first for the positive aspects of the exhibits, rather than
merely looking to see "how many points can I take off". Second, all
evaluations have to be made on a comparative basis with respect to what else
has been published on that subject, how well similar matters are handled in
other publications, even such questions as how significant a given publication
may be for one country or language group as compared with others. These
comparative factors can all change from one year or one exhibition to another,
and it's conceivable that such changes may affect the evaluation of an exhibit.
Concluding
Provisions
In
the event of any discrepancies in the text arising from translation, the
English text shall take precedence. These Guidelines for the Judging of
Philatelic Literature Exhibits at FIP Exhibitions have been confirmed by the
Literature Bureau on 19 July 2022. It was approved by the FIP Board on 8 August
2022 in Jakarta, Indonesia and ratified during the 76th FIP Congress on 10
August 2022 in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Stories Behind Stamps
China - Blue Military Stamp, 1953
Price: USD 428,654
Blue Military stamps were produced and supplied to active-duty troops so that they may use them to write messages. Shortly after the stamps were distributed, officials discovered that the material was somewhat translucent, posing a danger of secret information being leaked out. As a result, all mint stamps were ordered destroyed, with just a small portion that had been in use remaining. Only a few of them have survived until today. In 2011, a good example of the Blue Military stamp (shown in the article) was auctioned for 2.7 million yuan (US$428,654) in China. In June 2017, Inter-Asia auction house sold a very fine-looking sample of this well-known and rare People's Republic rarity, unworn and without gum as issued, for $281,500.
Reference : https://findyourstampsvalue.com/rarest-stamps/most-valuable-chinese-stamps
-Nisarg Sutaria email : nisargsutaria78@gmail.com
New Issues from other countries
Aland
10 September 2025 : Dove of Peace
Dove of Peace
The Dove of Peace
stamp is Åland Post’s first embroidered stamp. The stamp is part of the
international peace project Dove of peace in which Åland Post has joined forces
with more than eleven other postal administrations to issue this unique stamp
edition.
The initiators of the
stamp project are Philatelie Liechtenstein and Austrian textile manufacturer
Hämmerle & Vogel.
The common stamp motif
is a dove with an olive branch in its beak – a universal symbol of peace. This
self-adhesive commemorative stamp is issued simultaneously by all participating
postal administrations. Only the country name and denomination distinguish the
issues.
Finland
10
September 2025: 2025National Landscapes III
National Landscapes III
The popular series of roll of stamps featuring national landscapes has progressed to its third part. This time, the stamps designed by Stiina Hovi feature landscapes from Helsinki, Hämeenkyrö, Lake Köyliönjärvi, Väisälänmäki, hilltop villages in North Karelia, Imatrankoski and Olavinlinna in Savonlinna.
"The stamp series presents the stunning national landscapes of our
country, which have been admired for generations. Once again, the third series
of National Landscapes stamps feature both man-made and natural sites – each
with its own meaning in the minds of the viewers. National landscapes create a
visually diverse image of Finland.
10 September 2025 :
Veterans
Veterans
This year 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World
War in Finland. At the same time, the youngest age group called up for war
service will reach the age of 100. Today, the Tammenlehvän perinneliitto
federation cherishes the heritage of our war veterans. The photographs on the
blue-toned stamps feature a soldier on ski patrol and being treated in a
hospital.
"Veteran-themed stamps reflect the atmosphere during the Second
World War in Finland. Skiing was a cultural and tactical specialty of Finns
during the Winter War and the Continuation War. The forested and snowy
landscape was part of the environment in which soldiers lived and fought. The
hospital image conveys warm-hearted care and respect for those wounded in
war," says Pia Mikkonen, Head of Fundraising for the Veterans of the
Sotiemme Veteraanit (Our War Veterans) and Sotiemme Naiset (The Women of our
Wars) collection.
"The message from veterans to us and future generations is clear:
even a small nation can successfully defend its independence and liberty. Our
war-time generation believed in peaceful diplomacy between nations, but also
had to take up arms to defend Finland’s existence under extreme threat. They
laid the foundation for an independent and democratic Finland, and with the
release of the war veterans stamps, we want to honor their courage and
sacrifice," says Anna Storm, Vice President, Sustainability and Corporate
Affairs at Posti.
Isle of Man
22 October 2025 : Christmas 2025
Latvia
2 October 2025: Organ Donation Saves Lives
Organ Donation Saves
Lives
Organ donation in
Latvia plays a crucial role in saving lives, with the country adopting an
opt-out (presumed consent) system for organ donation. This means that
individuals are considered willing organ donors unless they explicitly opt out.
However, even under this system, the consent of the next of kin is still sought
before proceeding with organ donation. This stamp represents Organ Donation
which saves lives.
New Zealand
1 October 2025 : Christmas
Christmas
In a world of winter Christmases, Aotearoa New Zealand stands
out.Although local Christmas traditions include those seen in Britain and North
America, a summertime setting has had a strong influence on how we spend the
holiday.
In the Christmas 2025 stamps, universal Christmas iconography is
juxtaposed with the summery touch of a Kiwi Christmas.
$2.90 Snowflake/Sun - Unlike the cozy, indoor events north of the equator, Christmas Day
proceedings can be enjoyed al fresco here in the South Pacific. If you're in
one of the more reliably sunny parts of the motu (country) a ‘Christmas on the
beach’ with a picnic feast or a festive barbecue might be on the menu.
$4.00 Holly/Pōhutukawa - Known as Aotearoa New Zealand’s Christmas tree, the red blooms of
pōhutukawa trees are unique to a Kiwi Christmas. Although present in Aotearoa
New Zealand and recognised as a symbol of Christmas, European holly does not
fruit in summer.
$4.20 Stocking/Gumboot - Presented here as a playful alternative to the traditional Christmas
stocking, gumboots are strongly associated with farming and were made iconic in
Aotearoa New Zealand by comedian John Clarke (aka Fred Dagg) and his song
Gumboots. You might spot a pair of ornamental gumboots on a Kiwi Christmas
tree.
$4.70 Bauble/Cricket ball - Since Christmas Day takes place just a few days after the longest day
of the year, there are plenty of hours of daylight to enjoy. Cricket is our
most popular summer sport and a fun pastime for families on holiday.
$5.50 Pudding/Pavlova - Originating in New Zealand (or Australia - but probably New Zealand)
the pavlova was named after Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, who had toured
Australasia around the time of its invention. The light and airy meringue-based
dessert is ideal in hot weather, and a perfect vehicle for summer fruits.
Romania
10 October 2025
: The Centenary Of The Palace Of Culture in Iasi
Spain
26
September 2025: Gastronomy - Spain in 19 Dishes, Ceuta, Tuna Stew with Potatoes
Gastronomy - Spain in 19 Dishes, Ceuta, Tuna Stew with Potatoes
In the series “Spain in 19 dishes,” each autonomous community (and the two autonomous cities) is represented with a very typical recipe. In the case of Ceuta, the chosen dish is tuna stew with potatoes. It is a very simple but flavorful seafaring stew that reflects Ceuta’s cultural mix and its fishing tradition.
Serbia
30 September 2025 : Joy of Europe
In 1969, on the
occasion of the World Children’s Day, the first international festival of
children’s songs and dances “Joy of Europe” was held in Belgrade with the
support of the city authorities, President Tito, UNICEF and the United Nations
General Assembly. More than half a century has passed since then and over
20,000 children have visited Belgrade. In 1998, the 25th jubilee meeting “Joy
of Europe” received a new significant programme content – the International Art
Competition, in which individuals, preschool institutions, schools, children’s
art studios, children’s cultural centres and similar institutions and
associations from all over the world have participated since its establishment
(children and the youth aged 4 to 18). Artworks created in the pencil, tempera,
gouache, watercolour, pastel, ink, collage or graphics techniques have been
making up the rich palette of the traditional manifestation for 27 years.
The slogan of the 56th
International Gathering of Children of Europe “Joy of Europe” is EVERYTHING IS
POSSIBLE IF YOU BELIEVE IN IMPOSSIBLE! Inspired by Lewis Carroll’s masterpiece
“Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland”, it was chosen to encourage both children
and adults to dream without limits, explore a world full of wonders and believe
even when things they dream about seem impossible.
This year, 2,610 works
were submitted to the 27th International Art Competition “Joy of Europe”, from
cities across Serbia, as well as cities from: Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina,
Bulgaria, Egypt, India, Italy, Armenia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Namibia, Poland,
Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Thailand, Taiwan, Croatia, Czech Republic,
Montenegro, Finland and Hong Kong. Professionally selected artworks represent,
on the one hand, a significant document of the visual culture of childhood, and
on the other hand, a great incentive for young creators, as well as for art
pedagogues and all those who support the purity of children’s expression,
thoughts and creation
The selected artworks,
which arrived at the International Art Competition, traditionally find their
place on the commemorative postage stamp “Joy of Europe” issued by the Public
Enterprise “Post of Serbia” every year at the end of September.
The motif on the stamp
is the work of Darija Nikitjuk (age 14, Belarus). The authors of the works on
the vignettes are as follows: Tara Vorkapić (age 14, Serbia), Lena Simić (age
14, Serbia), Hong-Rui Yu (age 8, Taiwan), Rebeka Zollerova (age 7, Slovakia),
Aleksandra Tsaneva (age 6, Bulgaria), Terezia Adamska (age 8, Slovakia), Sofia
Tychyna (age 13, Belarus). The author of the work on the envelope is Artemy
Schahlov (age 11, Belarus).
Slovenia
26 September
2025: Road Safety
Road Safety -
Cyclists, look carefully all around you!
Cycling is one of the
most environmentally friendly forms of mobility, and in recent years the number
of recreational cyclists in Slovenia has been increasing. Cyclists are among
the most vulnerable road users, so it is important that they do everything they
can to ensure their own safety before setting off. They should always wear a
helmet, since this can reduce the potential consequences of head injuries in
the event of a fall by 40%–70%, and light-coloured clothing to ensure they
remain clearly visible in traffic. Cyclists should pay particular attention to
strictly observing traffic rules stopping at red lights, crossing the
carriageway correctly, signalling changes of direction in good time, and above
all riding in the correct direction. They should also avoid riding side by side
and instead ride in single file.
For safe cycling, it is important to ensure that your bicycle is always in good working order. Check key components regularly, such as the saddle, handlebars, brakes, front and rear lights, reflectors, tyres and bell. If you have not yet had it serviced this year, now is the time to do so. Do not use your phone or headphones while cycling, since they reduce your awareness of what is happening around you and increase the risk of an accident
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 October 2025 issue edited by Mohanachandran Nair: email : apa.tvpm@gmail.com
- Judaica Thematic
Society, UK . Society Newsletter October
2025 edited by Gary Goodman email : judaicathematicsociety@talktalk.net
- Vadophil Jan-Sep 2025 edited by Prashant Pandya and Timir
Shah : email :
info@vadophil.org
-Fila Capsule Sep 2025 issue : e-magazine of Eastern India Philatelists' Association, Bhubneswar Odisha; Chief Editor: Dr Bihudutta 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 ; Capt. Vijay Wadhwa- Raipur ;
Pradip Jain-Patna; Mystic Stamp Co.; MB
Stamps ; Mohanachandran Nair-Trivandrum; MB
Stamps ; Jagruthi Aadka , Bangalore
Address for communication:
Jeevan Jyoti, 509, Design Arcade, Chandrabani, Wildlife
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Happy Collecting ……….
Rainbow Stamp News is edited and
published monthly by Jeevan Jyoti from Dehradun (Uttarakhand) India for free circulation
among philatelists.
