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 Aug 15, 2020

Issued for : Department of Posts is glad to issue a set of five Commemorative Postage Stamps and a Miniature Sheet on UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India-III. The stamps have been designed based on the photographs of the prize-winning entries.

Credits :
Stamps/Miniature Sheet/FDC/Brochure : Smt. Nenu Gupta. Based on the photographs of the prize-winning entries
Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Nenu Gupta

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise (5)

Stamps Printed : 500000 each

Miniature sheets printed : 110000

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Department of Posts has been conducting Stamp Design competitions since 2015 to commemorate Independence Day, Republic Day and Children’s Day at the National level. Based on the prize-winning entries, stamps are designed and released to mark the occasion. This year too, Department of Posts conducted a nationwide Photography contest for Stamp Design, on the theme UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India (Cultural). The first three winners are Ms Sanya Khandale, Ms Madhu Tripathi and Ms Poonam Amol Bhosale. Five consolation prize winners are Sr Jousse, Mr Saksham Saxena, Mr Hardik Kansara, Ms Arishna Kamran and Mr Atul Padia. There are 38 World Heritage Sites located in India. These include 30 Cultural sites, 7 Natural sites and 1 Mixed site.
• One of the prominent landmarks of the Historic City of Ahmadabad a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Sarkhej Roza is known for its rich history and reverence. The architecture of the complex is credited to Azam and Muazzam Khan; two Persian brothers who are buried in the tomb near Vasna, Ahmedabad. Like many monuments built during that period, the Sarkhej Roza fused both non-Indian and Indian principles of architecture. In its architecture, Sarkhej Roza is an example of the early Islamic architectural culture of the region, which fused Islamic stylistic influences from Persia with Indian Hindu and Jain features to form a composite Indo-Saracenic architectural site.
• The Church of Bom Jesus is a Roman Catholic basilica located in Goa, and is part of the Churches and Convents of Goa UNESCO World Heritage Site. The basilica holds the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. ‘Bom Jesus’ (literally, ‘Good (or Holy) Jesus’) is the name used for the Ecce Homo in the countries of Portuguese colonization. Construction work on the church began in 1594. The church was consecrated in May 1605 by the archbishop, Dom Fr. Aleixo de Menezes. This is one of the oldest churches in Goa and in India. The floor is of marble inlaid with precious stones. Apart from the elaborate gilded altars, the interior of the church is simple.
• The Qutb Minar, is a victory tower that forms part of the Qutb Minar and its Monuments, Delhi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Qutubuddin Aibak, at that time a deputy of Muhammad of Ghor, but after his death, founder of the Delhi Sultanate, started construction of the Qutb Minar’s first storey in 1199. It has a height of 72.5 meters, making it the tallest minaret built of bricks in the world. The surface is elaborately decorated with inscriptions and geometric patterns. The tower has five superposed storeys. The lower three comprise fluted cylindrical shafts or columns of pale red sandstones, separated by flanges and by storied balconies. The fourth column is of marble, and is relatively plain. The fifth is of marble and sandstone. The whole tower contains a spiral staircase of 379 steps.
• Located in Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho Group of Monuments is a famous UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for a group of Hindu and Jain temples, well known for their Nagara style symbolism. The Javari temple is one of the most prominent of all of these temples in the Khajuraho complex. It was built between 975 and 1100 A.D. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity Vishnu. It has well-proportioned architecture, with a sanctum, vestibule, mandapa and portico, but without pradakshinapatha. It has Makara Torana (Capricorn Arch) and shikhara (top). It has three bands of carved sculptures on the outer wall. The entrance gate of sanctum has sculptures depicting nava-graha on the top. Along with nava-graha sculptures, sculpture of the Hindu deities Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva can also be seen.
• Group of Monuments at Pattadakal is a complex of 7^th and 8^th century AD Hindu and Jain temples in northern Karnataka. Located on the west bank of the Malaprabha River in Bagalakote district, this UNESCO World Heritage site is 14 miles (23 km) from Badami and about 6 miles (9.7 km) from Aihole, both of which are historically significant centres of Chalukya monuments. The Hindu temples are generally dedicated to Shiva, but elements of Vaishnavism and Shaktism theology and legends are also featured. The friezes in the Hindu temples display various Vedic and Puranic concepts, depict stories from the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, the Bhagavata Purana, as well as elements of older Hindu texts, such as the Panchatantra and the Kirātārjunīya. The Jain temple is only dedicated to a single Jina. A number of inscriptions in the old Kannada language have been found at the complex.
• Text : Shri Pallab Bose

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Issued by India

Issued on Mar 16, 2020

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to release a set of five Commemorative Postage Stamps and a Miniature Sheet on Natural sites under the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India-II.

Credits :
Stamps/Miniature Sheet/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Shri Brahm Prakash

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise (2), 1200 Paise (3)

Stamps Printed : 500000 each

Miniature Sheets Printed : 110000

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• UNESCO World Heritage Convention which was established in 1972, recognised various sites of cultural and natural importance around the world. After the latest addition to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, India now has 38 World Heritage Sites and that makes India the country with the 6^th largest number of World Heritage Sites in the world.
• MANAS WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
  • On a gentle slope in the foothills of the Himalayas where wooded hills give way to alluvial grasslands and tropical forests, lies the Manas Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is home to rare and endangered wildlife species such as Pygmy Hog, Golden Langur, Hispid Hare and the Assam Roofed Turtle.
• GREAT HIMALAYAN NATIONAL PARK
  • Located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, the Great Himalayan National Park is one of India’s prominent national parks. The National Park was established in 1984 and is spared over an area of 1,171 sq km at an altitude between 1,500 and 6,000 m. In June 2014, the Great Himalayan National Park was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites.
  • The National Park protects over 800 plant species, including many medicinal herbs, 31 mammal species and 209 bird species, as well as amphibian species, reptile species and insect species. A trek of 35 to 45 km in any of the park’s valleys brings one into the high altitude habitat (3,500 m and above) of animals such as Blue Sheep, Snow Leopard, Himalayan Brown Bear, Himalayan Tahr and Musk Deer. Best sightings can be made in autumn (September-November) as animals start their seasonal migration to lower altitudes.
• NANDA DEVI & VALLEY OF FLOWERS NATIONAL PARKS
  • The Nanda Devi National Park or Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, established in 1982 is a national park situated around the peak of Nanda Devi (7,816 m) in the state of Uttarakhand in northern India. The gentle landscape of the Valley of Flowers National Park complements the rugged mountain wilderness of Nanda Devi National Park. Together they encompass a transition zone between the mountain ranges of the Zanskar and Great Himalaya. The National Park was inscribed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988.
  • Nanda Devi National Park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Some 312 floral species that include 17 rare species have been found here. Fir, birch, rhododendron and juniper are the main flora. Common larger mammals found in this National Park are Himalayan Musk Deer, Mainland Serow and Himalayan Tahr. Goral are not found within, but in the vicinity of the park. Carnivores are represented by Snow Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear and perhaps also Brown Bear.
  • One of the most picturesque and colourful natural sights in India is the Valley of Flowers National Park. Nestled in Uttarakhand, this National Park is famous for its charming meadows of alpine flowers. Legends believe it to be the place from where Hanuman collected the Sanjeevanibuti for curing Laxman. This National Park has floral pastures, running streams and beautiful backdrop of mountains. The valley was declared a national park in 1982 and is a World Heritage Site.
• WESTERN GHATS
  • The Western Ghats, also known as Sahyadri (Benevolent Mountains), are a massive mountain range that covers an area of 1,40,000 square kilometres parallel to the western coast of the Indian peninsula, traversing the states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra and Gujarat. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the eight “hottest hot-spots” of biological diversity in the world. According to UNESCO, the Western Ghats are older than the Himalayas. They influence Indian monsoon weather patterns by intercepting the rain-laden monsoon winds that sweep in from the south-west during late summer.
  • The area has over 7,402 species of flowering plants, 1,814 species of non-flowering plants, 139 mammal species, 508 bird species, 179 amphibian species, 6,000 insect species and 290 freshwater fish species. It is likely that many undiscovered species live in the Western Ghats. At least 325 globally threatened species exist in the Western Ghats.
  • The major river systems originating in the Western Ghats are the Godavari, Kaveri, Krishna, Thamiraparani and Tungabhadra rivers. The majority of streams draining the Western Ghats join these rivers, and carry a large volume of water during the monsoon months.
• Text : Shri Pallab Bose

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Issued by India

Issued on Dec 29, 2018

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a set of six commemorative postage stamps on the theme UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India : Hill Forts of Rajasthan.

Credits :
Stamps/Miniature Sheet/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Shri Brahm Prakash

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 1200 Paise (3) & 500 Paise (3)

Stamps Printed : 5.0 Lakh each

Miniature Sheets Printed : 1.1 Lakh

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) seeks to encourage the identification, protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage around the world, considered to be of outstanding value to humanity. This is embodied in an international treaty called the Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, adopted by UNESCO in 1972. There are many UNESCO recognized World Heritage Sites in India. One of them is Hill Forts of Rajasthan. Six Hill Forts of Rajasthan, examples of Rajput military hill architecture, namely Amer Fort, Chittorgarh Fort, Gagron Fort, Jaisalmer Fort, Kumbhalgarh Fort and Ranthambore Fort were included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list during the 37^th meeting of the World Heritage Committee in Phnom Penh during June 2013. World Heritage sites belong to all the peoples of the world, irrespective of the territory on which they are located.
• Amer Fort is a fort located near Jaipur, Rajasthan. Located high on a hill, it is the principal tourist attraction in Jaipur. The town of Amer was originally built by Meenas, and later it was ruled by Raja Man Singh–I (21^st December, 1550 – 6^th July, 1614). With its large ramparts and series of gates and cobbled paths, the fort overlooks Maota Lake, which is the main source of water for the Amer Palace. Constructed of red sandstone and marble, the palace is laid out on four levels, each with a courtyard. It consists of the Diwan-i-Aam, or “Hall of Public Audience”, the Diwan-i-Khas, or “Hall of Private Audience”, the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) or Jai Mandir and the Sukh Niwas where a cool climate is artificially created by winds that blow over a water cascade within the palace.
• Kumbhalgarh Fort (“Kumbhal fort”) is a Mewar fortress on the westerly range of Aravalli Hills, in the Rajsamand district near Udaipur of Rajasthan. It was built during the course of the 15^th century by Rana Kumbha. Built on a hilltop 1,100 m (3,600 ft) above sea level on the Aravalli range, the fort of Kumbhalgarh has perimeter walls that extend 36 km, making it one of the longest walls in the world. Kumbhalgarh has seven fortified gateways. There are over 360 temples within the fort. The sand dunes of the Thar Desert can be seen from the fort walls.
• Jaisalmer Fort is situated in the city of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. It is believed to be one of the very few (perhaps the only) “living forts” in the world, as nearly one fourth of the old city’s population still resides within the fort. For the better part of its 800-year history, the fort was the city of Jaisalmer. The first settlements outside the fort walls, to accommodate the growing population of Jaisalmer, are said to have come up in the 17^th century. Jaisalmer Fort is the second oldest fort in Rajasthan, built in 1156 AD by the Rajput Rawal (ruler) Jaisal from whom it derives its name. The fort stands amidst the sandy expanse of the great Thar Desert on Trikuta Hill.
• Gagron Fort is situated in Jhalawar district of Rajasthan. It is an example of a hill and water fort. The fort is surrounded by water bodies from three sides which makes it unique. It has remarkable construction as it takes support from the hill of Burj from one side. The famous fort was built by Raja Bijili Dev in 12^th century and it was ruled around 300 years by Khinchi dynasty. The fort stands at the juncture of Kalisindh and Ahu rivers and is surrounded by greenery.
• Chittorgarh Fort is one of the largest forts in India. Chittorgarh (garh means fort) was originally called Chitrakut. The fort was the capital of Mewar and is located in the present-day town of Chittor. Set atop a 180 meters high hill this majestic fort features in tales of courage, pride and romance that the bards of Rajasthan have been singing for centuries. The fort, when viewed from above, looks roughly like a fish. Spread across an area of 700 acres, the circumference of the fort alone covers an area of 13 kilometers. There are seven massive gates, safeguarding all the entrances. The main gate is called as Ram Gate. The fort has 65 structures including temples, palaces, memorials and water bodies. There are two prominent towers within the premises of the fort namely Vijay Stambha (Tower of Victory) and Kirti Stambha (Tower of Fame).
• Ranthambore Fort lies within the Ranthambore National Park, near the town of Sawai Madhopur. It was built by the Chauhan rulers in the 10^th century. Due to its strategic location, it was ideal to keep the enemy at bay. The fort is characterised by temples, tanks, massive gates and huge walls. Constructed in 944 AD, Ranthambore Fort has witnessed many sieges and battles. An architectural marvel, the fort includes many attractions such include Toran Dwar, Mahadeo Chhatri and Sametonki Haveli within its premises.
• Text : Information collected from online sources.

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Issued by India

Issued on Aug 15, 2018

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a miniature sheet and a set of two Commemorative Postage Stamps on Holiday Destinations in India based on the prize-winning entries.

Credits :
Stamps/Miniature Sheet/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Alka Sharma, based on selected entries received from participants

Type : Stamps, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 1500 Paise (2)

Stamps Printed : 5.0 Lakh each

Miniature Sheet Printed : 1.10 Lakh

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Department of Posts has been conducting stamp design competition or photography competition on various themes since 2015 on the occasion of Republic Day, Independence Day and Children’s Day at national level. Based on the entries received from the participants, stamps are designed and released. Selected participants are given cash awards. This time, a nationwide photography competition on the theme “Holiday Destinations in India” was conducted on the occasion of Independence Day, 2018. Based on the selected entries, Stamps, Miniature Sheets, First Day Covers and Brochures have been designed. The first three winners of Photography Competition are Sh. Sandeep Nema, Sh. Maninder Singh Sodhi and Sh. Pranil Anil Borkar. Five consolation prize winners are Ms. Tina Verma, Sh. Prashant Singhal, Sh. Patel Narayan Dwarkadas, Sh. M. Vinoth Kumar, Sh. Dattaprasad V. Mantri.
• India is one of the most diverse and colorful countries in the world. It is home to numerous attractions, amenities and activities. Starting from the valleys of Kashmir to the tri-colored sea of Kanyakumari, tourist attractions abound. Therefore, people from various countries come to India every year to visit these historic sites and places of pilgrimage. During travel, a tourist must assimilate what nature has to offer, what relics of history teach and what life ultimately seeks to convey. Travelling helps the visitors get acquainted with the culture, customs, language and way of life of the local people. Besides, travel brings the much needed relaxation to our mind, body and soul.
• Based on the prize-winning entries of the instant competition, two stamps and a Miniature Sheet have been designed. The Miniature Sheet is designed with the photograph showing the Thar Desert and its integrated relationship with the local culture. The Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert, is a large arid region in the northwestern part of the Indian subcontinent. It is the world’s 18^th largest desert, and the world’s 9^th largest subtropical desert. The desert provides recreational value in terms of desert festivals organized every year. Rajasthan desert festivals are celebrated with great zest and zeal. This festival is held once a year during winters. Dressed in brilliantly hued costumes, the people of the desert dance and sing haunting ballads of valor, romance and tragedy. The fair has snake charmers, puppeteers, acrobats and folk performers. Camels play a stellar role in this festival, where the rich and colorful folk culture of Rajasthan comes alive. Desert safaris on camels have become increasingly popular around Jaisalmer. Domestic and international tourists frequent the desert seeking adventure on camels. During the safaris, tourists are able to view the fragile and beautiful ecosystem of the Thar Desert.
• The prize-winning photographs selected in this competition depict the geographical and cultural diversity of the country. One of the stamps is designed based on the winning photograph showing the City Palace of Udaipur, Rajasthan. Often referred to as the ‘Venice of the East’, the city of lakes Udaipur is located around azure water lakes and is hemmed in by lush green hills of Aravallis. Udaipur was founded in 1553 by Maharana Udai Singh II as the new capital of Mewar Kingdom. It is located in the fertile, circular Girwa Valley to the southwest of Nagda, which was the first capital of Mewar. The beautiful City Palace adds to the architectural grandeur of the city. The City Palace towers over Lake Pichola. The balconies, cupolas and towers of the palace give a panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding city. The main part of the palace is now preserved as a museum displaying artifacts.
• The other stamp depicts the Stone Chariot of Hampi of Karnataka which is also one of the most visited tourist destinations in India. Hampi, also referred to as the Group of Monuments at Hampi, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in east-central Karnataka, India. It became the capital of the Hindu Vijayanagara Empire in the 14^th century. Hampi’s ruins are spread over 4,100 hectares (16 sq mi) and it has been described by UNESCO as an “austere, grandiose site” of more than 1,600 surviving remains of the last great Hindu kingdom in South India that includes “forts, riverside features, royal and sacred complexes, temples, shrines, pillared halls, mandapas, memorial structures, water structures and others”. The “Stone Chariot”, as it is often referred is the flagship tourist attraction of Hampi. This is not a chariot, as the name suggests, rather a shrine built like a chariot. This stone shrine was built with many giant granite blocks. The joints are smartly hidden in the carvings and other decorative features that adorn the Stone Chariot.
• Other prize-winning photographs depicted in First Day Cover and Brochure also display the splendor of tourist destinations in India.
• Text : Based on information available on internet.

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Issued by India

Issued on Sep 26, 2010

Issued for : India Post is happy to issue a commemorative postage stamp on Brihadeeswarar Temple on the completion of 1000 Years of construction.

Credits :
Stamp & FDC : Brahm Prakash
Cancellation : Alka Sharma

Type : Stamp, Mint condition

Colour : Multi colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 0.4 Million

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Brihadeeswarar Temple was built by King Raja Raja-1 of Chola dynasty at Thanjavur, the capital of his Kingdom, in Tamil Nadu.
• Originally named as Rajarajeswaram by Raja Raja Chola, it is now called Brihadeeswaram in Sanskrit & Peruvudaiyarkoli in Tamil. The construction of this granite temple began in AD 1003-04 and it was consecrated in the year AD 1009-10. One of the outstanding temples in South India, the Brihadeeswarar Temple is a tribute to the Chola dynasty’s power, wealth and artistic merit. It showcases the pure form of Dravida temple architecture and mathematical prowess & symmetry, covering the skills of architecture, sculpture, painting and bronze casting.
• The temple occupies an area measuring 800′ x 400′. The 64.8 m tall tower over the sanctum sanctorum is testimony to the engineering skill of the Cholas. 13 tier pyramid shaped vimanam (tower) raised from a square base is topped by a huge monolithic cupola carved from an 81.3 tonne block of granite. It was raised with the aid of a 6 km long inclined plane.
• Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the sanctum sanctorum houses “Mahalingam” in the shrine, measuring 4 meters in height. A monolithic Nandi chiseled out of a single rock, measures 5.94 meters in length, 2.51 meters in breadth and 3.66 meters in height.
• The temple is replete with famous series of paintings by Chola, Nayak and Maratha artists. Beautiful Chola fresco paintings of about 1000 AD and the Nayaks paintings of 17^th century can be seen on the four side walls of the central cell along the circumambulatory passage.
• A complete inventory of a number of copper, silver, gold and brass images gifted to the temple by Rajaraja, his family members, officers and others are referred in the inscriptions of this temple.
• This temple is under the care of the Archaeological Survey of India from 1946 and is being maintained as a protected monument of national importance. Recognising its unique architectural excellence, UNESCO has declared it a World Heritage Monument.
• Text : Based on materials provided by the proponent.

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Issued by Bangladesh

Issued on Apr 18, 2008

Issued for : Bangladesh Post Office releases these Commemorative Postage Stamps and Souvenir sheets to present a showpiece of natural history and a world heritage site to the world community in a graceful fashion and the Post will continue its efforts to issue stamps on the Sundarbans in future.

Designer :
Stamps : Anowar Hossain & BPO (design adviser K. G. Mustafa)
Souvenir sheet : A T M Anowarul Quadir

Type : Se–tenant Block of 4 Stamps, Mint Condition

No. of Stamps : 4 (Four)

Colour : Multicolour

Denomination of Stamps : Tk. 10.00 (Taka Ten) each

Size of Stamps : 42 x 32 m.m.

Size of Souvenir sheets : 168 x 95 m.m.

Perforation of Stamps : 12.5

Types of Souvenir sheet : With perforation and without perforation

Value of Souvenir sheets : Tk. 50.00 (Taka fifty)

No. of stamps in each sheet : 100 (25 set)

Process of Printing : Offset

Printer : The Security Printing Corporation (Bangladesh) Ltd. Gazipur

About : 

• The Sundarbans (the beautiful forest or forest of Sundari trees) is the largest single block of tidal halophytic mangrove forest in the world. It got inscripted as a “UNESCO World Heritage Site” in 1997 and was designated a “Ramsar Site” in 1992.
• The Sundarbans is a cluster of islands forming the largest block of littoral forest, located in the southwest corner of Bangladesh. It lies on the Ganges–Brahmaputra Delta at the point where it merges with the Bay of Bengal. The forest lies a little south to the Tropic of Cancer between the latitudes 21°30′ N and 22°30′ N, and longitudes 89°00′ E and 89°55′ E.
• The Sundarbans was originally measured (about 200 years ago) to be about of 16,700 sq. km. Now it has dwindled to about 1/3 of the original size. Because of the partition of India, Bangladesh received about 2/3 of the forest; the rest is on the Indian side. It is now estimated to be about 4,110 sq. km. of which about 1,700 sq. km. is occupied by waterbodies. The Sundarbans is bounded in the north by Bagerhat, Khulna and Satkhira districts, in the south by the Bay of Bengal, in the east by Baleswar (or Haringhata) river of Perojpur district, and in the west by Raimangal and Hariabhanga rivers which partially form Bangladesh boundary with West Bengal, India.
• The climate in the Sundarbans is moderate. Air is humid. Full monsoon is from June to September. The average annual maximum and minimum temperature vary between 30°C and 21°C. The annual rainfall is in the range of 1640 to 2000 mm. During ebb-tide the forest becomes bare by 6-7 feet and at high tide the entire territory of the forest floats on water.
• The flora of the Sundarbans is largely of mangrove type. More than 334 species of trees, plants and shrubs grow in this forest. Most trees have pneumatophores for aerial respiration. The prominent species is Sundari and the others flora include Gewa, Keora, Goran, Golpata, Passur etc.
• The Sundarbans also hosts a large variety of animals. Within the forest habitats there are about 50 species of mammals, about 320 species of inland and migratory birds, about 50 species of reptiles, 8 species of amphibians and about 40 species of fish. It is also a centre of economic activities, such as extraction of timber, fishing and collection of honey.
• Thousands of meandering streams, creeks, rivers and estuaries have enhanced its charms. Sundarbans is the natural habitat of the world famous and ruthless, yet majestic and graceful Royal Bengal Tiger, spotted dear, crocodiles, jungle fowl, wild boar, lizards, rhesus monkey, pythons and an innumerable variety of beautiful birds. Migratory flock of Siberian ducks flying over thousands of sail boats loaded with timber, golpata, honey, shell and fish add to the serene natural beauty of the Sundarbans. With the approach of the evening herds of deer make for the drinking glades, where boisterous monkeys shower keora leaves from above for sumptuous meal for the deer. For the botanist, the lover of nature, the poet and the painter this land provides a variety of wonders for which they all crave.
• The Sundarbans has been recognised globally for its importance as reservoir of biodiversity. It is an abundant natural resource for a number of leisure, travel and research activities. With its array of trees and wildlife the forest is a showpiece of natural history. A visit to Bangladesh would remain incomplete if the Sundarbans did not appear in the itinerary. The noteworthy beauty spots of the Sundarbans are, Katka, Hironpoint, Kachikhali, Dublar Char (Island), Tin Kona Island etc.

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Issued by India

Issued on Nov 9, 2003

Issued for : The Department of Posts commemorates 100 years of the Kalka–Shimla Railway.

Credits :
Stamp & FDC : Designed by Kamleshwar Singh, based on material provided by proponents & from “Kalka Shimla Railway” by R.R. Bhandari, Secretary, Railway Board.
Cancellation : Alka Sharma

Type : Stamp, Postal Used

Colour : Four Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Overall size : 2.9 x 3.91 cms.

Printing size : 2.9 x 3.91 cms.

Perforation : 13 x 13

Paper : Imported unwatermark stamp paper

Print Quantity : 3 Million

Number of Stamps per sheet : 50

Printing Process : Photo Offset

Printer : Eagle Press Pvt. Ltd.

About : 

• 1816 saw the tract of land on which Shimla stands today, transferred to the East India Company under the Nepalese Peace Treaty, in return for the security provided by the Company to Sikkim. The British were quick to realise the potential of the environs as an alternative England in India. The bumpy 43-mile ride on ponies or in jampans (sedan-chairs) was, however, a discomfort to the Governors General who braved the track. Nonetheless, the idea of a railway line, came from a plea in the Delhi Gazette of November, 1847 to make this “the permanent seat of a Government, daily invigorated by a temperature adapted to refresh a European constitution, & keep the mental power in a state of health, beneficial both to rulers & the ruled”.
• The railway surveys of 1884-95 were followed by the signing of a contract in 1898 between the Secretary of State & the Delhi–Umbala Railway Company. On 9^th November, 1903, a 96 km railway line was launched in the limestone & shale rocks of the Shivalik Hills after three years of dedicated labour. Laid on sharp curves, the line passes over 864 bridges and through 102 tunnels using a narrow gauge of 2’6” in deference to hill formation and gradient.
• The journey from Kalka to Shimla is absolutely out of this world. The toy train provides a breath-taking view of the Kushalya river, the moment it enters the foothills. The serpentine splash of mercury keeps disappearing and reappearing with each bend for some time. Passage through the Koti tunnel makes you hunt for a coat and the air jabs you the moment you hit Jabli, 1240m above sea-level.
• Three picturesque loops near Taksal, Gumman and Dharampur provide photo-opportunity to an enthusiast. The ascent is steady. The train winds its way across green meadows, capsicum fields, re-roofed chalets and half-timbered houses. Each coach has chuckle under its wheels. About seven coaches form a train, to accommodate about 200 passengers per trip. The extremities of weather do not dislodge the determination of the 700 horse power B-B type diesel engines. They run to the call of duty in temperatures ranging from 0-45 Celsius and in snow which averages 2 feet during winters, and an annual rainfall of 200-250 cm. The average speed of 25-30 kmph ensures that “hurry” is replaced by a naturalness of demeanour.
• To taste the beauty of nature in exclusivity, travel in the Rail Motor Car which houses only 18. They are four and of them, three date to 1927, while the last dates to 1930. The original White & Pope petrol engines fitted by Drewry Car Company Ltd., London, were replaced during the Second World War as petrol was scarce. Americans supplied the diesel engines to the car, from General Motors, U.S.A.
• Nature unrolls its bounty as you travel. Gurgling brooks flowing down mountains, passing under the stone bridges; greenery & fragrances that live beyond photographs; clouds of mist gingerly touching you. The train meanders through Kumarchatti, then enters the Barog tunnel (1144 metres long) which crosses the Panchmunda ridge about 900 feet below the road. At Barog, it is mealtime on the morning trip. Though the English firm of “Spencers” which built the restaurant at Barog is no longer there, the hospitality continues to live.
• From Barog to Kandaghat the train runs downhill, past beautiful and quaint retreats of Solan and Saloghra. The final climb begins at Kandaghat. Gradually, solemn forests of deodars and pines replace the meadows. At Shogi, a heart-warming view of the Chail Valley brings numerous anecdotes associated with a Prince from Punjab. Banished from England society at Shimla, he built for himself a palace at Chail, a nearby resort.
• Past Taradevi, the railway takes you under Prospect Hill to Jutogh, winding its way like a naughty current of air teasing you, till it pauses at Summer Hill. Finally, under the Inverarm Hill, you emerge like a happy child at Shimla.
• Text : Sandeep Silas, Director (Information & Publicity), Railway Board.

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Issued by India

Issued on Jan 21, 2002

Issued for : The Department of Posts is happy to issue a set of four stamps on the Bauddha Mahotsav.

Design : The first day cover carries a picture of the imposing statue of Lord Buddha at Bodhgaya. The four stamps depict important landmarks of the ‘Buddhist Circuit‘ along with illustrations of festivities.

The first stamp shows the Mahabodhi temple located adjacent to the Mahabodhi tree at Bodhgaya. This magnificent temple dating back to the second century A.D. is an amalgamation of architectural features representing many cultures. The second stamp shows the Gridhakuta hills of Rajgir, from where the Lord had delivered many of his sermons. The third stamp depicts the Dhamek Stupa of Sarnath from where Lord Buddha is believed to have given his first sermon and the fourth, the Mahaparinirvana temple of Kushinagar where he is stated to have attained release from the endless cycle of birth and rebirth. The four stamps also carry pictures of prayers and festivities, in an attempt to capture the spirit of the Bauddha Mahotsav.

Credits :
Stamp & FDC : Sankha Samanta
Cancellation : Alka Sharma

Type : First Day Cover

Colour : Four Colour

Denomination : 1500, 400, 400 & 800 Paise

Overall size : 2.90 x 3.91 Cms.

Printing size : 2.50 x 3.55 Cms.

Perforation : 13.5 x 13.5 mm with elliptical hole on each 3.91 cm sides

Paper : Matt Chromo

Stamps Printed : 1.5 million each

Number per issue sheet : 40

Printing Process : Photo Offset

Printer : Calcutta Security Printers Ltd.

About :

• Buddhism taught humanity the middle path, the virtue of observing moderation in life and staying clear of the extremes of both self-indulgence and self-mortification. It rejected ritualistic practices and emphasised the need to eliminate desire in order to attain salvation from suffering. It also advocated peace, non-violence and respect for all forms of life. Having originated in India, Buddhism spread far and wide, to different corners of the world.
• India, the ‘cradle of Buddhism‘, has a past rich with Buddhist history and traditions. The places connected with the four principal events of Lord Buddha‘s life, viz. his birth, enlightenment, first sermon and nirvana, which took place respectively at Lumbini (Nepal), Bodhgaya, Sarnath and Kushinagar, are looked upon with great veneration. Sravasti, Sankisa, Rajgir and Vaishali, together with the first four are regarded as the eight holy places (Ashtamahasthanas) and are well known pilgrimage destinations.
• The annual Bauddha Mahotsav festival aims to propagate the message of Lord Buddha and to create awareness about India‘s rich Buddhist heritage. Promoting pilgrimages and tourism as well as increasing the travel facilities are integral to this festival. The Bauddha Mahotsav also aims to strengthen the cultural links provided by Buddhism between different countries and their peoples.
• Text : Based on material received from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.

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Issued by India

Issued on Dec 1, 2001

Issued for : The architectural magnificence of Konark has drawn the attention of art lovers all over the world and found it a place in the World Heritage List. For years, this magnificent poetry in stone was in a state of utter negligence and near ruin. Steps for the scientific conservation of the temple were started in 1901. This year, the temple completes a century of its conservation. Department of Posts is happy to release these postage stamps to commemorate hundred years of conservation efforts of the Sun Temple, Konark.

Credits :
Stamp & FDC : Sankha Samanta
Cancellation : Alka Sharma

Type : Se–tenant pair of 2 Stamps, Mint Condition

Colour : Four Colour

Denomination : 400 & 1500 Paise

Overall size : 2.90 x 7.82 cms.

Printing Size : 2.90 x 7.82 cms.

Perforation : 13.5 x 13.5 mm

Paper : Matt Chromo

Stamps Printed : 3 million

Number per issue sheet : 18

Printing Process : Photo Offset

Printer : Calcutta Security Printers Ltd.

About : 

• One of the most stunning symbols of ancient Indian architecture, the Sun Temple of Konark represents the quintessence of temple architecture and art of Orissa. This temple, once widely known as the Black Pagoda, was built by the King Narasimhadeva–I of the Ganga dynasty in the thirteenth century, perhaps as a royal proclamation of the political supremacy of his dynasty. It is said that a workforce of twelve hundred artisans and architects invested their creative talent, energy and artistic commitment for a period of twelve years to create this colossal monument. The temple was constructed as a monumental representation of a massive chariot drawn by seven spirited horses on twelve pairs of exquisitely carved wheels, lying on an east-west axis in which the Sun God Surya was pulled across the sky.
  
• The grand temple complex consists of Deula (Sanctum), Jagamohana (Audience hall) and the Nata Mandir (Dancing hall). The temples faces the east to greet the first rays of the rising sun. The Deula and Jagamohana, forming component parts of one architectural scheme, stand on a magnificent platform. The temple abounds in sculptural work. The walls of the temple are richly carved and contain superb carvings of divine, semi-divine, human and animal figures amidst floral and geometric ornamentations. The vivacious ‘kanyas’ and danseuse are remarkable for their sensuous modelling, pulsating with human emotions in a variety of gestures and rhythmic actions. Each wheel of the chariot is a masterpiece of Indian art. The seven splendid stone horses near the eastern flight of steps to drag the chariot, the ornamental platform and the wheels impart a feeling of movement to the monument as a whole. The contemporary life and culture as well as the character of an entire classical dance style can also be traced out from the surface of the temple.

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