Issued by India

Issued on Oct 14, 2025

Issued for : India Post is proudly releases joint postage stamp to commemorate 70^th Anniversary of the establishment of Diplomatic Relations between India and Mongolia.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Shri Suresh Kumar

Type : Souvenir Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 5000 & 5000 Paise

Souvenir Sheet Price : 10000 Paise

Souvenir Sheets Printed : 113100

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• For most Mongolians, India is a “spiritual neighbour,” a declared ‘third neighbour, a ‘strategic partner’, and a centre for pilgrimage. Lately, the 4 Ds Dharma, Democracy, Development Partnership, and Digital Development Cooperation have become pillars of the Mongolian relationship. Historically, India and Mongolia have interacted through the shared heritage of Buddhism.
• It is believed that some tribes from the Kangra kingdom migrated to Mongolian territory 4300 years ago with Mangaldev, son of the Kangra king, and the majority of them returned to India after staying there for about 2000 years, though there is no historical evidence yet to prove this. In 1924, Mongolian PM A. Amar proposed in his book that Mongolian ancestors could have come from the Himalayas.
• The ‘Ganga Nuur’ lake is believed to have derived its name from the Ganga River in India. As per the popular legends some Mongolian Lamas brought water from Ganga and poured it into the lake in Sukhbaatar Province and named it so. As for Buddhism, it appears to have traversed to Mongolian steppes through Tibet and the Himalayan region. During the Hunnu State and Great Mongol Empire periods, Buddhist monks and Indian traders visited Mongolia. In 552 BC, a Lama Narendrayash from the State of Udayana (Northern India) with some others visited Nirun state. Since India is regarded as the land of Buddha, Lamas and students from Mongolia used to travel to Nalanda, once the largest residential University in India, to study Buddhism.
• These accounts confirm that both India and Mongolia were in close direct contact especially during 5-7 centuries AD and it seems that Buddhism in Mongolia accelerated the process of further spread of Indian culture in Mongolia. The intellectual development of Mongolia is ostensibly influenced by the Mahayana school of Buddhism, its philosophy and the philosophical treaties of Nagarjuna used in simplified expression and terminology.
• Mongolian Buddhism is predominantly the Yellow Hat sect of Buddhism practiced in Tibet and China, but over the centuries, it has evolved into its own version, having incorporated the pre-Buddhist religion of ‘Tengarism’ as well as ‘Shamanistic’ influences.
• Over the last few decades, India–Mongolia relations have been on upward trajectory with several high-level visits further consolidating the relations. Late Ambassador 19^th Bakula Rimpoche, during his 10 years’ tenure in Mongolia from 1990-2000, contributed immensely to consolidating this legacy of Buddhist connection with India and was instrumental in reviving hundreds of Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia and setting up of revered Pethub Monastery in Ulaanbaatar city. The relations have deepened, intensified and consolidated our shared heritage of Buddhism with Mongolia.
• The diplomatic relations with Mongolia were established on 24^th December 1955 and in January 1956, the first Mongolian Ambassador was posted to New Delhi. However, the Resident Mission of India in Ulaanbaatar was opened on 22 February 1971 and before that Indian Ambassador in Moscow (T.N. Kaul) was concurrently accredited. In 2020, the Embassy of India marked the 65^th anniversary of India–Mongolia diplomatic relations during which a special commemorative stamp by Mongol Post on the 65^th anniversary was released in Dec 2020 by Hon. External Affairs Minister of India.
• Text : Referenced from content provided by Ministry of External Affairs.

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Issued by India

Issued on Apr 7, 2025

Issued for : India Post proudly releases commemorative stamps on 50 Years of reestablishment of diplomatic relations, celebrating culture, history and mutual cooperation between the two nations.

Credits :
Stamp/Souvenir Sheet/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Shri Kamleshwar Singh, Shri Jorge Macedo

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 5000 & 5000 Paise

Souvenir Sheet Price : 10000 Paise

Stamps Printed : 1,15,000

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• India and Portugal share warm and friendly bilateral relations, based on longstanding historical and maritime linkages and close cultural connections. Relations between India and Portugal date back to over 500 years when the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama led a sea-faring expedition to Calicut (present day Kozhikode) in Kerala in May 1498, becoming the first in the world to discover a direct sea route between Europe and South Asia, across the Atlantic Ocean and the African continent. This gave Portugal direct access to the highly profitable Indian spice market, which contributed to its later emergence as a dominant colonial trading power.
• The Portuguese colonial era in India began in 1502 when they established their first trading centre in Quilon (present day Kollam) in Kerala. Later they acquired several other enclaves on the western coast including Diu, Daman, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Goa in 1510. Subsequently Goa became the capital of the Portuguese Empire in the Orient, which stretched from Malacca (Malaysia) in the east to Mozambique in the west.
• Bilateral relations between independent India and Portugal began amicably in 1947 and diplomatic ties were established in 1949. The diplomatic relations saw a new dawn after the Carnation Revolution in April 1974, which toppled Salazar’s Estado Novo regime and ultimately restored democratic rule in Portugal. On 31 December 1974, India and Portugal signed a treaty recognising Indian sovereignty over Goa, Daman & Diu, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, which came into effect on 3 June 1975.
• There was rapid progress in bilateral relations from the 1990s, marking the beginning of an era of mutual interest in forging close ties. The ties deepened when António Costa took charge as the Prime Minister of Portugal in November 2015. PM Costa was the first Indian-origin Head of Government in the Western world. Bilateral relations gathered momentum with the reciprocal visits by PM António Costa and PM Narendra Modi in January and June 2017 respectively, followed by the visit of PM Costa to India in December 2019 and the State Visit of President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa to India in February 2020.
• The year 2025 marks the 50^th anniversary of the revival of diplomatic relations between India and Portugal. To mark this special occasion, commemorative stamps on traditional attires that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the two countries are released. The attires share some stark similarities, much like the partnership between India and Portugal.
• Viano do Castelo traditional costume
  • Among Viana do Castelo’s costumes, the holiday ladies’ outfit is the most iconic and impressive. This costume is worn by young girls during the Lady of Agony festivals and other important celebrations and is characterized by its wealth and ostentation. This very special Viana do Castelo attire includes a velvet or wool skirt, a vest embroidered with intricate patterns, a linen shirt with delicate embroidery and the most eye-catching element- the gold pieces that adorn the girls’ neck, chest, and hands.
  • Viana’s young girls are the guardians of traditions, and their attire is a symbol of the region’s cultural heritage and wealth. The gold pieces worn by them are often inherited from previous generations and are passed down from mother to daughter as a family treasure.
• Kalbelia traditional costume
  • The Kalbelia costume is the traditional attire of the Kalbelia tribe of Rajasthan, India, known for their vibrant dance and music. Women wear a Ghagra (long, flowing skirt) adorned with intricate embroidery, mirror work and bright colors like black, red, and yellow. The Choli (blouse) is fitted and heavily decorated, often paired with an Odhani (veil or dupatta) draped over the head and shoulders. The costume is designed to enhance the graceful, swirling movements of the Kalbelia dance.
  • Jewelry plays a significant role, with silver bangles, anklets, necklaces, and large earrings adding to the costume’s elegance. The ensemble reflects the community’s nomadic heritage, drawing inspiration from snake charmers, as the Kalbelia people traditionally worked with snakes. The dress not only represents their cultural identity but also enhances the hypnotic, serpentine movements of their world-famous dance, which is recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
• The Postage stamps pay tribute to India and Portugal’s cultural richness, signifying a beautiful confluence of art and history. Portugal remains a key partner of India in the EU region and the commemorative release of the stamps will reflect the strong relationship.
• Text : Shri Kamleshwar Singh, Shri Jorge Macedo

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Issued by India

Issued on Feb 25, 2024

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue commemorative postage stamp on Yakshagana and salutes the important role of this traditional dance form in preserving our rich heritage and culture.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Nenu Gupta

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 302360

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Yakshagana is a unique and representative traditional performing art form of Karnataka State. In its evolution in the last six centuries, it has progressed much from its folk roots to a highly complex theatre from combining all the major art components discussed in Bharatha’s Natya Shastra.
• Yakshagana is a combination of dance and drama. It is a synthesis of four forms of Abhinaya namely Aharya, Angika, Vachika, and Sathvika. Its music, dance, costumes and dialogues are stylized. In its internal structure it has classical discipline and in its external expression it enjoys folk liberty. It is a whole night performance depicting the stories of the Ramayana, the Mahabharatha and the Puranas. Yakshagana is a kind of ritualistic Theatre art. It is moralistic in purpose and entertaining in performance. It is intellectually appealing and emotionally entertaining.
• There are many variants of Yakshagana in different parts of Karnataka and in other states as well Yakshagana, which is the more popular name in the modern times is also known as Ata (Play), Dashavatara Ata (depicting the ten Avataras of Lord Vishnu), Bayalata (Play in the open field) etc. The variant seen in the region from Dakshina Kannada to Kasaragod is called Thenku thittu (southern style) and the variant seen from Udupi up to Uttara Kannada it is called Badaga thittu (northern style).
• The term ‘Yakshagana’ has been interpreted variously and this aspect also throws light on the historicity of this theatre. Etymologically this name is a combination of two words ‘Yaksha’ and ‘Gana’. Yaksha not only means a group of demigods in Indian mythology but also implies ‘Worship’ (Yaksha Poojaayam). ‘Yakshaganam’ is also seen in Andhra Pradesh (Kuchupudi Yakshaganam). In old Kannada and Telugu literary texts the words (Ekkala) and (Jakkala) stand for a kind of song, a group of people or community who sing in a particular style. Researchers opine that this style of singing might have led to the birth of ‘Yakshagana’. After fifteenth Century we find a kind of composition of songs which are called ‘Yakshagana Prabhandam’ (Composition). These are song texts sung in temples during temple worship. What was once a form of singing gradually transformed to theatre.
• There are no books that describe the features of Yakshagana theatre (as there are Lakshana Granthas to describe Indian Classical music or dance). There is a collection of a few Sanskrit verses and Kannada Songs called ‘Sabhalakshana’ which provide some basic theoretical information about the lead singer (Bhagavat), dimensions of performing area etc. It also contains invocatory songs to Lord Ganapathi, Lord Krishna, Subrahmanya etc.
• The traditional performance of Yakshagana reveals its strong rustic folk features. Illiterate or less educated village artists performed Yakshagana, learning the art from senior artists. This is how all our folk arts have been handed down from generation to generation. In the last one hundred years there have been many changes. Many educated people in coastal Karnataka have become artists. Quite a few have studied Yakshagana with research interest. Many Theatre persons did experiments in Yakshagana with multi dimension growth a good model of Yakshagana has emerged with rigors and discipline of classical arts.
• Text : Based on information provided by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Feb 20, 2024

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a set of commemorative postage stamps on Cultural Heritage of Western Odisha and appreciates its rich culture and heritage positively affecting the beliefs, traditions and lifestyle of people.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Sh. Sankha Samanta

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise (6)

Miniature Sheets Printed : 111000

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Odisha is a confluence of the Aryan, Dravidian and Adivasi cultures. Most festivals, art and cultural traditions in the state bring out some parts of these cultures. Sambalpur serves as the gateway to the enchanting western zone of Odisha. It is the epicentre of a very high profile and rich culture. Its art and culture is a unique proposition of dance, music, handicraft, beliefs, social values, traditional practices etc.
• Sambalpuri Bandha (Ikat) work or Sambalpuri work contains the warp and the weft tie-dyed before weaving. This is produced in Sambalpur, Balangir, Bargarh, Boudh and Sonepur Districts of Odisha. The traditional garment has the motifs like Sankha (conch-shell), Chakra (wheel), Phula (flower). These have deep symbolism with the native Odia colours i.e., red, black and white representing Odia culture along with the colour of the face of Mahaprabhu Shree Jagannatha.
• The traditional craftsmanship of ‘Bandhakala’, the tie-dye art reflected in their intricate weaves, also known as ‘Sambalpuri Ikat’. In this technique, the threads are first tie-dyed and later woven into a fabric, with the entire process taking as long as many weeks. The Ikat sarees gained popularity outside Odisha in the 1980-90s. The yarns or set of yarns so produced are called ‘Bandha’. This art is believed to have been migrated to Odisha along with Bhulia community who fled Northern India in the year 1192 A.D. The colours consisted mainly of vegetable colours. The Bandha Sarees were known as ‘Bhulia Kapta’.
• Sambalpuri fabric owes a great deal to the pioneering efforts of Shri Radhashyam Meher, who brought about a radical movement in the skills of the craftsmen and the quality of the products. Other master craftsmen who contributed to the development of Sambalpuri Textiles were Padma Shri Kailash Chandra Meher, Padma Shri Kunja Bihari Meher, Padma Shri Chaturbhuja Meher and Padma Shri Krutarth Acharya along with Handloom Technologist Shri Ramakrushna Meher (National Awardee). Bandha craftsmen are also masters of the ‘extra warp’ and ‘extra weft’ style of designing which can be seen in almost all forms of Bandha Textiles. Radhashyam Meher also produced Khadi textiles using Bandha Art. Shri Meher has established his propriety at Sambalpur for the research, production and marketing of Sambalpuri Textiles.
• Acknowledging Radhashyam Meher’s unparalleled contributions to the growth and popularity of Bandha art, the Ministry of Textiles of Government of India has sponsored Textile Exhibition coinciding with his birth anniversary on 20^th November and organised by the Director of Textiles of Government Of Odisha. Sagarpalli is a large village hosting around 500 Bhulias (weaver families). This is one of the largest weaving villages in Sonepur district, a bastion of Sambalpuri sarees. Other areas affluent with Handloom Weavers are Barpalli, Tarava, Bijepur, Patnagarh and Bargarh.
• Nuakhai festival has been a tradition since 12^th century A.D. People of Western Odisha, spreading across Sambalpur, Balangir, Bargarh, Sundargarh, Kalahandi and adjoining areas of Simdega in Jharkhand celebrate this festival with great joy and happiness. Western Odisha celebrates this agricultural festival which is known as ‘Nuakhai’. The importance of agriculture is deeply embedded in the economic development of this State.
• This is the annual harvest festival in Odisha. Nuakhai is observed to welcome the newly harvested rice of the season. According to the Odia Hindu Calendar, it is observed on Panchami Tithi of the lunar fortnight of the month of Bhadrapada or Bhadraba, the day after Ganesh Chaturthi Festival. The objective of this festival is to celebrate social bonding and strong family ties. The festival has its origin from the Vedic period where the Rishis used to discuss Panchyajna. The Pralambana Yajna is meant for cutting new crops and offering prayers to mother Goddess. People visit their native place during the festival. Nuakhai festival has nine sets of rituals that begin from Behrana to concluding with the Juhar Bhet. This day is considered as auspicious and one of the most important days marked in the calendar of the Western Odisha. Goddess Samalei, the presiding deity of the land is worshipped and is offered food prepared out of new crop or Nabanna.
• Sitala Sasthi Yatra is a sacred Hindu Festival celebrated in Western Odisha in which the divine couple’s marriage is solemnised. Sitala Sasthi is observed on the sixth day of the Jyestha month during Shukla Pakshya. People observing this festival believe that Lord Shiva represents scorching heat of summer while Goddess Parvati signifies the first rain. This holy/sacred wedding is solemnised for a good monsoon.
• The Ministry of Culture of Government of India has accorded National Festival status to Dhanu Yatra in 2014. The Yatra is performed in many places in Western Odisha. The major one of these is the original one at Bargarh. It is about the episodes from birth of Lord Sri Krishna to death of demon king Kansa including Krishna and Balaram’s visit to Mathura to witness the Dhanu Yatra Ceremony of the king Kansa. The interesting fact is that there is no written script used in these enactments. This has become the World’s largest open-air theatre till date.
• Sambalpuri Folk Dance, a dance form owes its origin to the Western part of Odisha, particularly the erstwhile Sambalpur District. This place is known for its sculpturesque Odissi dance form. Deriving its name from the presiding deity of Sambalpur ‘Samalei’, the dance form has a distinct cultural identity of its own. This dance is usually performed during festivals i.e. Dussehra, Nuakhai etc. Accompanied by the rhythm of ‘Panchavadya’ i.e. the 5 local instruments Dhol, Tasha, Nishaan, Jhanjh and Muhuri coupled with the tinkling of Ghungurus, the creative blends of both traditional and modern scintillating movements punctuated with teaming pauses.
• Text : Based on information received from the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Dec 15, 2023

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to commemorate India and Oman Friendship through the Joint Issue of Commemorative Postage Stamp and celebrates the warmth, goodwill and friendship between the two nations.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure : Mrs. Soni Budhia & Mr. Brahm Prakash
Cancellation Cachet : Mrs. Nenu Gupta

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 2500 & 2500 Paise

Souvenir Sheet Price : 5000 Paise

Souvenir Sheet Printed : 1,11,500

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• India and Oman are linked by geography, history, and culture and enjoy warm and cordial relations. While people-to-people contact between India and Oman can be traced back to 5000 years, diplomatic relations were established in 1955, which got upgraded to a Strategic Partnership in 2008. After that, the political engagement between the two countries has taken on a more strategic shape.
• As a mark of this special friendship, India has extended an invitation to the Sultanate of Oman to participate as a guest country during India’s Presidency of the Group of 20 nations (G-20). This is a symbol of the time-tested friendship between India and Oman and opens up new possibilities for deepening cooperation between the two countries.
• To commemorate the long historic friendship and cultural similarities between India and Oman, India Post and Oman Post agreed to the issuance of India-Oman Joint Stamp. An MOU in this regard was signed by the Department of Posts, Ministry of Communications, Government of India and Oman Post on 21 March 2022. The two sides agreed on the theme of traditional dance forms of India and Oman for this joint stamp issue.
• The artwork for the joint stamp has been created by Mrs. Soni Budhia, an Indian artist living in Oman over the past 12 years. The artwork showcases the traditional dance forms of India and Oman and the iconic architectural symbols of both countries. The Indian image is showcased with Hawa Mahal, a well-known landmark from the city of Jaipur, while the Omani image is showcased on the backdrop with the iconic Fort Nizwa, which is one of the most identifiable landmarks of Oman.
• The launch of India–Oman Joint Stamp marks a historic milestone in the long-standing relationship between India and Oman and will be cherished by both philatelists and art enthusiasts in both countries.
• Dandiya Raas is a popular folk dance from the state of Gujarat in India. Dandiya Raas is a rhythmic dance performed by young people moving around in a circle in measured steps to the beat of dandiya or sticks that they carry in their hands. The rhythm is maintained by the clacking sticks, with clapping hands keeping pace. The Dandiya Raas is performed with traditional songs and folk tunes to the beat of the dhol and the wind instrument Shehnai. It is associated with the autumn festival of Navaratri.
• As precious gems rooted deep in Omani heritage, various folk arts are passed from generation to the next in the Sultanate of Oman. They are living manifestations of the nation’s values, norms and behaviors that Omanis so proudly exhibit and celebrate in breathtaking spectacles brimming with national pride.
• A key component of Oman’s artistic heritage is Al Razha, an ancient folk art widely known across the Sultanate. It is a choreographed duel between two fighters, called Zavenin, armed with swords and shields and accompanied by passages recited by great poets.
• This magnificent performance is considered an artistic display of people’s celebration and happiness. It was primarily used as a call to arms, a declaration of victory or was a form of traditional celebration and entertainment during holidays and gatherings.
• Al Razha is performed in various styles depending on the performers’ movements, the rhythm and tempo and the subject of accompanying poems. Main styles of this traditional artform include Himbel, Qusafi and Lal Al Oud.
• Text : Referenced from content provided by Ministry of External Affairs.

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Issued by India

Issued on Mar 30, 2023

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a set of Commemorative Postage Stamps on the Legends of Odisha who have contributed magnificently to the art and culture of not only Odisha but also took the Indian values and culture to the international panorama.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Nenu Gupta

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 1000 Paise

Souvenir Sheet Price : 5000 Paise

Souvenir Sheets Printed : 301590

Miniature Sheet Printed : 1.11 Lakh

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Kelucharan Mohapatra

Born on 8 Jan, 1926 at Raghurajpur, Puri, Odisha, India

Died on 7 Apr, 2004 at Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India

About : 

• Born on 08.01.1926 at Raghurajpur village in Puri, Kelucharan Mohapatra, is widely known as father of architect of Odissi dance. The story of his artistic experience touches all the salient features of the cultural life of Odisha and has become the story of growth and recognition of ‘Odissi style’ as one of the classical dances of India.
• Fondly known as Guruji, he established himself as a dancer and choreographer with the Annapurna “B” Theatre in Cuttack in 1940. He established his own distinct style and developed further dances in a systematic and precise manner. He travelled widely for popularizing Odissi dance and was associated with Odissi Research Centre in Bhubaneswar for more than a decade.
• In 1966, Guruji received the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award. He was conferred with Padmashree in 1974 and Padma Bhushan in 1988. In 1993, Guruji established “Srjan” in Bhubaneswar, as a humble offering to dance, music and rich national ethos. Throughout his lifetime, he made over 200 solo compositions and about 50 dance ballets to his credit and over 5000 students from across the world learned Odissi dance from him. For him, dance was a Sadhana and teaching, a Dharma. His demise on 07.04.2004 was a personal loss to many worldwide, who knew him through his dance and love for national ethos. His legacy lives on.
• Text : Referenced from the contents provided by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Apr 3, 2022

Issued for : Department of Posts is delighted to commemorate the 30 Years of establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Turkmenistan through the Joint Issue of Commemorative Postage Stamp.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Shri Brahm Prakash

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 2500 Paise (2)

Stamps Printed : 201600 (on Sankirtana)

Miniature Sheets Printed : 111000

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• India enjoys friendly and historical ties with Turkmenistan. Archaeological finds in South Turkmenistan including near Ashgabat have reveled their contacts with Indus Valley Civilization. Traces of Soma drink preparation (mentioned in Rig Veda) in the ruins of Gonur Depe archaeological site in Mary province supports the theory of early civilizational links between the two countries. Sanskrit Buddhist manuscripts, coins and Buddha statue found in the ruins of Merv (Mary province) suggest continuity of cultural and trade linkages. ‘Turkmen Gate’ built in Delhi in memory of great Turkmen Saint Shams-ul-Arifeen Shah Turkmen Bayabani, who is believed to have lived in India during 13^th century, also bears testimony to this friendship.
• In modern times bilateral relations have been strengthened by regular high-level visits. Hon’ble President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov visited India in May 2010. Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi visited Turkmenistan in July 2015. During these visits, several significant MoUs and agreements were signed covering areas such as Science & Technology, Defence, and Tourism etc.
• Indian movies and TV serials are popular with Turkmen people. Similarly, Indian music especially Hindi songs also hold a special place in the hearts of Turkmen people. Indian film festivals are held on regular basis in different cities in Turkmenistan. ‘India Cultural Week’ including exhibition, dance performance, film and food festival was celebrated in Ashgabat in May 2017 to mark the 25^th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Turkmenistan.
• Central Asia’s first Yoga and Traditional Medicine Centre was inaugurated by Hon’ble Prime Minister of India in Ashgabat in July 2015. A Yoga Teacher and an Ayurveda Expert have been deputed to the Centre from India and offer classes / consultations to interested people. They also teach at the State Medical University of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat.
• India provides training for Turkmen nationals under its Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme. Since the inception of the programme for Turkmenistan in 1944, over 400 Turkmen nationals have been trained in various courses. In addition, Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) provides Scholarships to students from Turkmenistan to pursue graduation, post-graduation and Ph.D. There are currently over 300 students from Turkmenistan pursuing their higher education in various reputed universities in India. In 2010, a Hindi Chair was established by India in Azadi Institute of World Languages, Ashgabat where Hindi is being taught to around 50 university students.
• The joint issue of Commemorative Postage Stamp celebrates this natural friendship of India and Turkmenistan through the traditional art of singing and dancing i.e. Sankirtana and Kushtdepdi. These traditional dance and singing forms of India and Turkmenistan are part of UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
• Sankirtana encompasses an array of arts performed to mark religious occasions and various stages in the life of the Vaishnava people of the Manipur plains. Sankirtana practices Centre on the temple, where performers narrate the lives and deeds of Krishna through song and dance. Sankirtana works in harmony with the natural world, whose presence is acknowledged through its many rituals.
• Kushtdepdi is a performing art involving creative poeticizing focused on good feelings and wishes. It involves singing with vocal improvisation and dancing with movements of the hands, gestures and footsteps in accordance with the tune of the song. The rite serves as a tool for conveying good wishes and is an inseparable part of ceremonies and national celebrations.
• Text : Referenced from contents provided by Ministry of External Affairs.

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Issued by India

Issued on Jun 10, 2021

Issued for : India Post is privileged to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on 70 Years of Diplomatic Relations between India and Germany, to celebrate the natural partnership between the two vibrant democracies working together for global peace and development.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Ms. Gulistaan

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 2500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 352400

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Bilateral relations between India and Germany are founded on shared democratic principles and are marked by a high degree of trust and mutual respect. With common interest in maintaining a rule-based international order, the two democracies are close strategic partners, maintaining continuous exchange of ideas through more than thirty consultations and dialogue forums.
• The year 2021 signifies an important milestone for the India–Germany relationship as it marks the 70^th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. India was among the first countries to recognize the Federal Republic of Germany, as soon as the First Instrument of Revision of the Occupation Statute for Germany was issued on March 6, 1951, allowing Germany to conduct foreign relations, an announcement was made the next day, March 7, 1951, about the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Federal Republic of Germany.
• From the beginning, science and technology has been a key source of common interest for the countries. Germany played a crucial role in the establishment of the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras in 1959 – a trailblazer in cutting-edge science and engineering education. The visit of Dr. Heinrich Lubke, President of the Federal Republic of Germany, to India in 1962 marked the beginning of the Indo-German Technical Assistance Program. This collaboration in the field of science, research and technology marked the beginning of a long and fruitful journey which has yielded significant results and contributed immensely to the scientific and economic successes of the two nations.
• India and Germany have a long tradition of academic and cultural exchange. Max Mueller was the first scholar of Indo-European languages to translate and publish the Upanishads and the Rigveda. German interest in Indian philosophy and languages had resulted in the setting up of the first Chair of Indology at the University of Bonn in 1818. As a result of this strong tradition of academic and cultural exchange, there has been growing interest in Germany in ancient as well as modern Indian art forms, such as dance, music and literature, motion picture and TV industry.
• As India liberalised its economy in the last decade of the 20^th century, the India–Germany economic partnership emerged as one of the biggest beneficiaries. Trade and investment relations rapidly picked up and by the turn of the millennium, it was clear that the new intensity in bilateral relations had to be recognised and nurtured. On 18 May 2000, India and Germany signed the ‘Agenda for the Indo-German alliance in the 21^st century’ which laid the foundation for a higher order of bilateral cooperation in a rapidly changing global era.
• Relations between the two countries received a fresh impulse when India and Germany entered into a ‘Strategic Partnership’ in 2001. The increased momentum in bilateral relations during the first decade of the 21^st century culminated in the institutionalisation of the Intergovernmental Consultations (IGC), held since 2011 every two years at the level of Heads of Government. The IGC is a whole-of-government dialogue format which allows for a comprehensive review of bilateral relations and identification of fresh areas of engagement.
• Stepping into its 20^th year in 2021, the India–Germany Strategic Partnerships strengthened by expanding economic relations and growing people-to-people contacts. Building on the robust foundation, strong mechanisms of cooperation have been established across a diverse range of sectors – in economic, science and technology, defence, strategic and cultural spheres. In recent years, the relationship has gained immensely from the personal attention and close engagement between our leaders at the highest levels. The multi-faceted cooperation between the two countries stretches across multilateral issues, including climate change and reform of the UN Security Council. Both the countries remain committed to working together to defeat terrorism, ensure freedom of navigation and rule of law, achieve sustainable development and have a fair system of global trade.
• The bilateral relationship has reached a level of maturity with the completion of 70 years of establishment of diplomatic relations. Marking the 70^th anniversary on March 7, 2021, the Foreign Ministers of India and Germany delivered special messages conveying felicitations and good wishes to the people of both countries and calling for further intensification of partnership based on the robust foundation of the last 70 years.
• As the world grapples with the disruption brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, the India–Germany strategic partnership is poised to play a crucial role in creating and supporting global capacities to face complex challenges. Cooperation between the two countries would go a long way in ensuring that the post-pandemic global order is peaceful, development-oriented, human centric and sustainable.
• Text : Ms. Anika Singh.

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Issued by India

Issued on Aug 29, 2018

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to release a set of two Commemorative Postage Stamps between India and Armenia on the theme Dance featuring ‘Manipuri Dance’ of India and ‘Hov Arek Dance’ of Armenia.

Credits :
Stamps/Miniature Sheet/FDC/Brochure : Shri Suresh Kumar
Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Nenu Gupta

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 2500, 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 500250 each

Miniature Sheet Printed : 1.1 lakh

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• India recognized Armenia on 26^th December, 1991 and the Protocol on establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Armenia was signed on 31^st August, 1992 in Moscow. Historians have suggested that when Assyrian warrior queen Semiramis invaded India in 2000 BC, some Armenians accompanied her as they probably did Alexander the Great in 326 BC. According to literary evidence, there were Indian settlements in Armenia established by two Indian Princes who along with their families and large retinue had arrived in Armenia as early as 149 BC and were allotted land in Taron region (now in Turkey) by the then rulers of Armenia.
• Emperor Akbar, highly appreciative of the commercial talents and integrity of the Armenians, granted them numerous privileges and considerable religious freedom as also an opportunity to serve in his empire in various capacities. In the 16^th century, Armenian communities emerged in Kolkata, Chennai, Mumbai and Agra, where the first Armenian Church was consecrated in 1562. The Armenian language journal “Azdarar” published in Madras (Chennai) in 1794 was the first ever Armenian journal published anywhere in the world. The vestigial Armenian community in India is now mainly settled in Kolkata. The Holy Church of Nazareth, erected in 1707, repaired and embellished in 1734 is the biggest and the oldest Armenian Church in Kolkata.
• Bilateral dialogue between India and Armenia is conducted through the mechanisms of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) and Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technological, Cultural and Educational Cooperation (IGC), and periodic high-level interactions. In recent years, India and Armenia have supported each other in international organizations. India’s exports to Armenia were USD 19.87 million in 2017 and imports in the same period were USD 2.83 million.
• The first International Day of Yoga was celebrated in Armenia on 21^st June, 2015 in which over 300 Armenians from different walks of life participated. The event created awareness about yoga benefits among Armenians. International Day of Yoga was again celebrated in 2016 and 2017.
• India has set up a Centre of excellence in ICT in Yerevan and supported projects for supply of computers to schools in Armenia. India offers India Technical Economic Cooperation (ITEC) courses to Armenians and also scholarships to study Hindi in the Kendriya Hindi Sansthan (KHS). The Indian community in Armenia is small and consists largely of over 800 students pursuing medical education at Yerevan State Medical University and Yerevan Engineering & Polytechnic University.
• Manipuri Dance:
  • Manipuri dance is one of the major Indian classical dance forms, named after the region of its origin Manipur, a state of North Eastern India. It is particularly known for its Hindu Vaishnavism themes and exquisite performances of love-inspired dance drama of Radha–Krishna called Raslila. However, the dance is also performed on themes related to Shaivism, Shaktism and regional deities such as Umang Lai during Lai Haraoba. The Manipuri dance is a team performance, with its own unique costumes, aesthetics, conventions and repertoire. The Manipuri dance drama is, for the most part, marked by a performance that is graceful, fluid, sinuous with greater emphasis on hand and upper body gestures. It is accompanied by devotional music created with many instruments, with the beat set by cymbals (kartal or manjira) and double-headed drum (pung or Manipuri mridanga) of sankirtan. Manipuri dance is a religious art and its aim is the expression of spiritual values. Aspects of this performance are celebrated during Hindu festivals and weddings among the Manipuri people, particularly in the ethnic majority of Meitei people. The dance drama choreography shares the plays and stories of ‘Vaishnavite Padavalis’, that also inspired the major Gaudiya Vaishnava related performance arts found in Assam and West Bengal.
• Hov Arek Dance:
  • The Armenian dance heritage has been considered one of the oldest and most varied. From the fifth to the third millennia B.C., in the higher regions of Armenia, the land of Ararat, there are rock paintings of scenes of country dancing. These dances were probably accompanied by certain kinds of songs or musical instruments.
  • The Armenian dance named “Hov Arek” is staged on the basis of lyrical folk song “Hov arek sarer jan” which means “Dear mountains send me a breeze” from the collection of the famous Armenian musicologist, composer and priest Komitas. Hov Arek song is a lyrical song in which a young man implores the mountains to send a breeze to rid him of his woes. It is a deeply moving song in which the delicate melodic line encompasses a wide range of expression. The dance “Hov Arek” is performed by women that make the dance look very graceful, elegant and delicate. All dancers wear the traditional costume to embody the history of their culture.
• Text : Based on the information received from Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India and Armenia Post.

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Issued by India

Issued on Jan 25, 2018

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a set of 11 Commemorative Postage Stamps on ASEAN-INDIA COMMEMORATIVE SUMMIT 2018 on the occasion of 25^th anniversary of ASEAN-India Dialogue Partnership.

Credits :
Stamps/Miniature Sheet/Sheetlets/First Day Cover/Brochure : Shri Sankha Samantha
Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Alka Sharma

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise (11)

Stamps Printed : 0.5 million each in the form of sheetlets

Miniature Sheet Printed : 110000

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• The Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) comprises of Indonesia, Singapore, Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam, Thailand, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Viet Nam. India’s focus on a strengthened and multi-faceted relationship with ASEAN is an outcome of the significant changes in the world’s political and economic scenario since the early 1990s. India’s search for economic space resulted in the ‘Look East Policy’. The Look East Policy has today matured into a dynamic and action oriented ‘Act East Policy’.
• India is hosting the ASEAN – India Commemorative Summit 2018 in New Delhi. The theme for the Commemorative Summit, ‘Shared Values, Common Destiny’, has been displayed in the series of the 11 stamps, which have been conceptualized to thread together our historical and civilizational links that date back to over two millennia. These shared linkages which find numerous examples in texts, folklore, festivals, architecture, literature, dance-forms, music, religion, culture, motifs, symbols and everyday life may seem as quotidian, they however, are subtle reminders of a deep and enduring bond build on trust, respect and tolerance for diversity. Among these linkages, is the Ramayana, the ancient Indian text, that has its representations and interpretations in variety of dance, ballet and theatre art forms across almost all ASEAN member states, binding and connecting our common heritage.
• Below is a brief description of the eleven individual stamps:
  • Brunei Darussalam: Menyembah, the Bruneian greeting usually offered to Royalty which is akin to the Indian Namaskar is depicted in the stamp. The mudras or hand gestures found in dance forms across Southeast Asia are a distinct and recognizable connect.
  • Cambodia: The scene portraying the attack of the monkey warriors on Ravana’s brother Kumbha karan, engraved on the walls of the Angkor Wat Temple complex, is depicted in the stamp.
  • Indonesia: The Indonesian version of the Ramayana was believed to be written during the Medang Kingdom (732-1006 AD) in Central Java. Also known as the Kakawin Ramayana, its depiction has been considered to be of great artistic expression and is very well known.
  • Lao PDR: Phralak Phralam, the title referring to the brothers Lord Rama and Lakshamana, is the national epic of Lao PDR, that also boasts of significant Buddhist influences. Notably popular in Phralak Phralam is the depiction of Hanumana, representative of strength, agility, devotion, and intelligence.
  • Malaysia: A key milestone that represents the Indian-Malaysian heritage connect is the Torana Gate, a gift from the Government of India to the Government of Malaysia in 2015. The Torana, an elaborate gateway, is usually depicted in Buddhist, Hindu and Jain worship places. The Gate, with both Hindu and Buddhist influences, depicts the Jatakas (stories of the previous birth) of Gautama Buddha.
  • Myanmar: Yama Zatdaw, an adaptation of the Ramayana, is prevalent in Myanmar. Yama translates as Lord Rama and Yamayana is the equivalent of the Ramayana, while Zatdaw refers to the play enactment or part of the jataka tales. The storyline under Yama Zatdaw is true to its core with added Myanmar traditions, cultures, costumes, and customs noticeably producing a beautiful rendition of the epic.
  • Philippines: The scene depicted is from the famous and graceful dance form, Singkil, that is derived from the Darangen, an adaptation of the Ramayana. The lead dancer, a lady in the role of Putri Gandingan, graciously steps in and out of closing bamboo poles arranged in either a parallel, rectangular, or criss-cross fashion while manipulating either apir (fans), mosala (scarves), or even just their bare hands. It is a popular dance performed during celebrations and other festive entertainment.
  • Singapore: The Sri Mariamman Temple is Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple founded in 1827. The temple is symbolic of India’s relation with Singapore that transcends beyond just economic relations. The other image is of a gold earring that was found in South India and is currently housed at the Indian Heritage Centre, Singapore. It bears a lion or “singha” motif, tying back to its origins in Singapore. The lion is an important symbol in the narrative of Indian interactions with Southeast Asia and the island of Singapore (previously known as Singapura) derives its name from the Indic word simha or singha.
  • Thailand: The stamp is a pictorial representation of Khon, a traditional dance-drama genre from Thailand that derives from the Ramakien, an adaptation of the Ramayana. The show features athletic dance moves, traditional singing, and all dancers in masks forcing them to elucidate purely through movement. The other image depicted is of the Thai Hanuman, the most popular and recognisable character in the country.
  • Viet Nam: The Kate Festival is the largest traditional festival of Viet Nam’s Cham Brahman people celebrated in Ninh Thuan province and recognized by Viet Nam as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. It is celebrated for the Cham to express their gratitude to their ancestors. The Cham Temple tower, depicted in the background, is from the Champa civilization of central Viet Nam and part of the My Son temple sanctuary, dating back to 4^th century AD, dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. Government of India is helping restore portions of the My Son complex.
  • India: Scene of Rama – Sita Swayamvar is depicted in Pattam Katha, cloth-based scroll painting from Andhra Pradesh (Source – Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts).
• Text : Based on the information received from Ministry of External Affairs.

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