Hello! Welcome to the May 2025 highlights on Indian philately. I hope you’re all doing well and caring for your collections during these hot summer days. Last month’s highlights received lots of feedback and comments. Thank you to everyone who visited and shared their thoughts, both positive and negative. Your input helps me improve! I kindly request everyone reading this post to share a comment, suggestion, feedback, or criticism. It will help me make these monthly posts more useful for philatelic friends. Without further delay, let’s dive in!
Stampdesk India
India Honors Cinema Legends with Commemorative Stamps
On May 1, 2025, India released a special postage stamp at the World Audio Video & Entertainment Summit in Mumbai. The stamp celebrates the birth centenary of five iconic figures: Guru Dutt, Ritwik Ghatak, Salil Chowdhury, Raj Khosla, and P. Bhanumathi.
These legends shaped Indian cinema with their visionary storytelling, music, and direction. The Department of Posts issued a Miniature Sheet to honor their timeless contributions. The release marks a tribute to their lasting impact on Indian and global cinema.
International Labour Day Cancellation by Karnataka Postal Circle
The first day of the month May was celebrated everywhere around the world as International Labour’s Day. To commemorate this day a special pictorial cancellation was released at all four philatelic bureaus of the Karnataka Postal Circle.
Labour Day, celebrated on May 1st, honors workers and the labor movement, commemorating the 1886 Haymarket affair in Chicago where a peaceful rally for an 8-hour workday turned violent after a bomb was thrown. The event became a symbol of workers’ struggles, and in 1889, May 1 was declared International Workers’ Day by the Second International. Today, many countries observe it as a public holiday, though the U.S. celebrates Labor Day in September.
Maharashtra Day
On 1st May, 2025, Maharashtra Day was celebrated across the Maharashtra state. The Maharashtra Postal Circle released a special cancellation at all 5 philatelic bureaus across the state.
Maharashtra Day marks the formation of Maharashtra in 1960. The state was created from the bilingual Bombay State. This happened due to the Bombay Reorganisation Act, which split the bilingual Bombay State into Maharashtra and Gujarat. The day celebrates Marathi identity and culture.
Special Cover released on Punyashlok Ahilyabai Holkar
On the 300th birth anniversary of Punyashlok Ahilyabai Holkar, a Special Cover with Special Cancellation was released by Shri Abhijit Bansode, Director of Postal Services, Pune Region, in the presence of Hon’ble Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, during a Cabinet meeting held at Ahilyabai’s birthplace, Chondi, Ahilyanagar.
The event was graced by notable dignitaries, including Deputy Chief Ministers Shri Eknath Shinde and Shri Ajit Dada Pawar, Legislative Council Chairman Shri Ram Shinde, Chief Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar, Cabinet Ministers, Ministers of State, MPs, MLAs, MLCs, and Shri Vikas Kharge, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister and Ministry of Cultural Affairs.
Special Cover Released on Cricket Theme at EuroPhilEx Birmingham 2025
On 7 May, 2025, during the opening day of EuroPhilEx Birmingham 2025, Shri Sachin Kishore, Deputy Director General (Philately & Marketing), unveiled a Special Cover featuring a cricket-themed cancellation.
This release by India Post celebrates the spirit of cricket on an international philatelic stage, captivating collectors and enthusiasts at the prestigious event.
World Atheltics Day
A special pictorial cancellation was released at all four philatelic bureaus in Karnataka Postal Circle to commemorate World Atheltics Day 2025.
World Athletics Day, celebrated on May 7, promotes athletics and youth participation in sports, emphasizing fitness and sportsmanship. Initiated by World Athletics in 1996, it inspires global engagement in track and field events.
India Post Honors Masti Venkatesha Iyengar with Permanent Pictorial Cancellation
Shri S. Rajendra Kumar, Chief Postmaster General, Karnataka Postal Circle, unveiled a permanent pictorial cancellation at Masthi Sub Post Office in Kolar, the birthplace of renowned writer Masti Venkatesha Iyengar, on May 8, 2025. This special tribute celebrates the literary legacy of the iconic author, immortalizing his contributions through a unique philatelic honor.
Masti Venkatesha Iyengar (1891–1986) was a renowned Indian writer in the Kannada language, celebrated for his contributions to Kannada literature. Known as the “Brahma of Kannada Literature,” he wrote short stories, novels, and plays, blending humor, social commentary, and humanism. His notable works include Channabasava Nayaka and Subbanna. He was awarded the Jnanpith Award in 1983, one of the highest literary honors in India, for his profound impact on Kannada literature. (Source – Karnataka Postal Circle)
World Migratory Bird Day Cancellation Released in Maharashtra
On May 10, 2025, Maharashtra Postal Circle released special cancellation on World Migratory Bird Day at all six philatelic bureaus in Maharashtra Circle: Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Aurangabad, Nashik, and Panaji.
The postmark highlight the importance of protecting migratory birds and their habitats. This initiative promotes awareness of bird conservation.
World Migratory Bird Day Cancellation Released in Bhopal
On October 10, 2025, Madhya Pradesh Postal Circle released a special cancellation stamp in Bhopal to mark World Migratory Bird Day.
Permanent Pictorial Cancellation issued on Black Buck Sanctuary
On 9th May, Karnataka Postal Circle introduced a permanent pictorial cancellation at Ranebennur MDG. The cancellation depicts Black Buck Sanctuary of Ranibennur.
Ranibennur Blackbuck Sanctuary, established in 1974, is located in Haveri district, Karnataka, near Ranebennur town. Spanning 119 km², it was created to protect blackbucks, which now number over 6,000. The sanctuary also once housed the endangered Great Indian Bustard, which hasn’t been seen since 2002 and may be locally extinct. The area features scrub forests and eucalyptus plantations and hosts other wildlife like wolves, foxes, wild boars, and many bird species. It includes a core protected zone and a buffer zone open to tourism.
(Courtesy – Nagaraj Savanur)
Maharashtra Postal Circle Celebrated Buddha Purnima with Special Cancellation and Picture Postcards
India Post extended warm wishes of peace and serenity to everyone on the occasion of Buddha Purnima. The Maharashtra Postal Circle marked the day with a special cancellation at the Mumbai GPO.
The event also featured the release of beautiful postcards showcasing famous Buddhist caves. The celebration highlighted the timeless teachings of Lord Buddha on compassion, wisdom, and enlightenment.
Special Cover and Cancellation Released on Buddha Purnima at Lucknow GPO
A special cover and cancellation were released at the Lucknow GPO on 13th May, 2025 to mark the occasion of Buddha Purnima.
The release was done by Chief Postmaster General of Uttar Pradesh, Mr. Pranav Kumar. Postmaster General, HQ Region, Mr. Sunil Kumar Rai was present at the event. Director Postal Services, Ghaziabad, Mr. Praveen Kumar, and Director Postal Services, HQ, Dr. Anand Kumar Singh, also attended the ceremony. (Source – Uttar Pradesh Postal Circle)
Exhibitions on Buddhism Organized by Postal Circles Across India on Buddha Purnima 2025
On the occasion of Buddha Purnima 2025, various postal circles and divisions across the country organized exhibitions highlighting the theme of Buddhism.
These exhibitions showcased the life, teachings, and legacy of Lord Buddha.
Here are a few glimpses from different regions of India, celebrating this sacred day with knowledge and reverence.
Source – Social media handles of respective postal regions/circles
BuddhaPEX 2025: International Philatelic Exhibition Held in Gorakhpur
BuddhaPEX 2025, an international philatelic exhibition, was held at the State Buddhist Museum in Gorakhpur. The event was organized by the UP Department of Culture and the Philatelic Society of Uttar Pradesh to mark International Museum Day. Over 1,000 stamps and philatelic items from 150+ countries showcased the life of Lord Buddha.
Postmaster General Gaurav Srivastava inaugurated the event. Philatelists Padma Ramchet Chaudhary and Aditya Singh were also present. The exhibition included student competitions, a postcrossing meetup, and workshops. BuddhaPEX 2025 celebrated Buddha’s global legacy and promoted philately among youth.
Courtesy: Philatelic Society of Uttar Pradesh
For more details about this event, please visit: BuddhaPEX 2025
Permanent Pictorial Cancellation Released in Honour of Adikavi Pampa
A Permanent Pictorial Cancellation and Picture Postcard were released on 13 May 2025, by Shri S. Rajendra Kumar, Chief Postmaster General, Karnataka Circle, at Annigeri, Dharwad — the birthplace of Adikavi Pampa.
Pampa is hailed as one of the greatest Kannada poets and a pioneer of Kannada literature. His epic works laid the foundation for classical Kannada poetry and Jain literary tradition.
Permanent Pictorial Cancellation Released on Shri Brahma Jinalaya, Lakkundi
On 13 May 2025, Shri S. Rajendra Kumar, Chief Postmaster General, Karnataka Circle, released a Permanent Pictorial Cancellation and Picture Postcard on Shri Brahma Jinalaya Temple at Lakkundi, Gadag.
Lakkundi is known for its rich temple architecture and historic stepwells. The Brahma Jinalaya is one of the oldest Jain temples in Karnataka, showcasing the region’s artistic and spiritual heritage.
Dhai Akhar 2025: India Post Announces National Letter Writing Winners
India Post has announced the national-level winners of the Dhai Akhar Letter Writing Competition 2025. The competition is held annually to promote the art of letter writing and creative expression.
The winners were selected in two formats – Envelope and Inland Letter Card (ILC), under two age categories: up to 18 years and above 18 years.
| Envelope Category – Up to 18 Years 1. Kritika – Himachal Pradesh 2. Abhinav Shivaji Patil – Maharashtra 3. Avni Kejrival – Jharkhand | ILC Category – Up to 18 Years 1. U. Kamalini – Andhra Pradesh 2. Athar Rashid Sheikh – Jammu & Kashmir 3. Sakshi Pandey – Uttarakhand |
| Envelope Category – Above 18 Years 1. Chandrashekhar Kushwaha – Delhi 2. Md. Afsar Hayat – Bihar 3. Kabita Deb – North-East | ILC Category – Above 18 Years 1. Dadasaheb Sadolkar – Maharashtra 2. Hiranya Kumar Burman – Assam 3. Prasad Aagre – Chhattisgarh |
The competition received entries from across the country. India Post appreciated the enthusiasm shown by participants and congratulated the winners.
India Post Honors Dr. D. R. Bendre with Permanent Pictorial Cancellation
India Post released a Permanent Pictorial Cancellation at Bendre Bhavan in Dharwad on 14 May 2025. The cancellation honors Dr. D. R. Bendre, a legendary figure in Kannada literature. The release was done by Shri S. Rajendra Kumar, Chief Postmaster General, Karnataka Circle.
Dr. Bendre is celebrated for his rich poetry and contributions to modern Kannada literature. This philatelic tribute recognizes his literary legacy and deep cultural impact.
India Post Releases Stamp Celebrating 125 Years of Kodaikanal Solar Observatory
India Post released a commemorative postage stamp on 16 May 2025, to mark 125 years of the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KSO), one of India’s oldest solar research centers.
The stamp was unveiled at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bengaluru, by Shri S. Rajendra Kumar, CPMG Karnataka Circle.
Established in 1899, KSO is known for its long-term solar observations. The stamp features a high-resolution solar image and a historic sunspot diagram, highlighting KSO’s scientific legacy.
India Post Releases Picture Postcards and Cancellation on Lepakshi Heritage
On 16 May 2025, Andhra Pradesh Postal Circle released six special picture postcards and a Permanent Pictorial Cancellation celebrating the heritage of Lepakshi Temple.
The release was done by the Chief Postmaster General of Andhra Pradesh.
Each postcard showcases the temple’s rich art, culture, and architecture. The initiative highlights India’s heritage through philately and promotes the joy of postcard collecting.
The release aims to connect people with history and inspire interest in traditional art and monuments.
Permanent Pictorial Cancellation Released at Sandesh Museum of Communication
A new Permanent Pictorial Cancellation was introduced at the Sandesh Museum of Communication in Bengaluru on 19 May 2025.
The release was led by Shri S. Rajendra Kumar, Chief Postmaster General, Karnataka Circle. He was joined by Smt. V. Tara, Director Postal Services. The cancellation highlights the museum’s role in preserving India’s communication heritage.
ISRO-Themed Pictorial Cancellation Released in Bengaluru
India Post released a Permanent Pictorial Cancellation on 19 May 2025, at the NAL Sub Post Office to honour ISRO’s achievements in space research.
The release was led by Shri S. Rajendra Kumar, CPMG Karnataka Circle.
Located near ISRO, the NAL post office is a symbolic site for this tribute. The cancellation celebrates India’s progress in space science and technology.
For more details about this event, please visit: Permanent Pictorial Cancellation of NAL S.O.
Special Pictorial Cancellation Released on World Bee Day
On 20 May 2025, a special pictorial cancellation was released at all six philatelic bureaus under the Maharashtra Postal Circle.
The release marks World Bee Day, celebrated to raise awareness about the importance of bees and pollinators. Bees play a vital role in food production, biodiversity, and maintaining ecological balance.
This philatelic tribute highlights the need to protect bees for a sustainable future.
Special Cover Released to Mark 100 Years of Paljor Namgyal Girls’ School
On 21 May 2025, a Special Cover was released to commemorate the centenary of Paljor Namgyal Girls’ School (PNG) in Gangtok. The release took place during the school’s 101st Founder’s Day celebration, marking the conclusion of a year-long centennial celebration.
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The Special Cover was unveiled by Shri Supriyo Ghosh, Postmaster General of Sikkim, in the presence of Shri Bhoj Raj Rai, Minister of Urban Development; Shri Ivan Dorjee Lepcha, Principal of PNG; and Ms. Jem Pandi Targain, former Principal.
Established in 1924, PNG has been a pioneer in girls’ education in Sikkim. The school has played a significant role in empowering women through education over the past century.
Anti-Terrorism Day Cancellation Released at Raipur GPO
On 21 May 2025, a special pictorial cancellation was released at Raipur GPO to observe Anti-Terrorism Day.
The release aimed to spread awareness about the dangers of terrorism and promote peace and unity.
Postal officials and staff participated in the event. They reaffirmed their commitment to upholding national integrity and harmony.
Special Cancellation Released on International Tea Day by Karnataka Postal Circle
On the occasion of International Tea Day, 21 May 2025, the Karnataka Postal Circle released a Special Cancellation to celebrate the rich heritage of tea.
The cancellation honors the cultural and emotional value of tea in everyday life. It highlights the comfort and tradition brewed into every cup.
The special cancellation was available at four Philately Bureaus in Karnataka.
Permanent Pictorial Cancellation on Coffee Estates Released in Chikkamagaluru
Department of Posts released a permanent pictorial cancellation on “Coffee Estates of Chikkamagaluru” on May 22, 2025.
The design honors the birthplace of Indian coffee and the legacy of Baba Budan, who brought coffee beans from Yemen in 1670.
Chikkamagaluru’s cool hills and lush estates make it a top Arabica coffee producer. The cancellation celebrates the region’s rich coffee culture and farming pride.
Special Cancellation Marks International Biodiversity Day in Bhopal
Madhya Pradesh postal circle released a special cancellation in Bhopal on May 22, 2025, to mark International Biodiversity Day.
The theme for this year is “Be Part of the Plan”, focusing on protecting nature through collective action.
Karnataka Postal Circle Released Permanent Pictorial Cancellation on Panchagangavalli River
Karnataka Postal Circle released a pictorial cancellation on May 23, 2025, at Kundapura Head Post Office.
The cancellation celebrates the Panchagangavalli River, formed by the meeting of five rivers—Souparnika, Varahi, Kedaka, Chakra, and Kubja. This scenic river flows through Kundapur and joins the Arabian Sea at Gangolli in Udupi district. Kundapura, surrounded by water on three sides, is closely tied to this river and its history.
Special Cancellation Released on World Turtle Day in Kendrapara
Odisha Postal Circle released a special pictorial cancellation on May 23, 2025, at Kendrapara Head Post Office to mark World Turtle Day.
The design highlights the region’s role as the world’s largest nesting ground for Olive Ridley turtles. The initiative aims to raise awareness about marine conservation and Kendrapara’s ecological importance. The cancellation was well received by philatelists and environmental enthusiasts.
For more details about this event, please visit: World Turtle Day 2025 Cancellation from Kendrapara
Special Cover Released to Mark 100 Years of Howrah Division
A special cover celebrating 100 Glorious Years (1925–2025) of the Howrah Division, Eastern Railway, was released on May 26, 2025.
The release was led by Shri Riju Ganguly, Postmaster General, South Bengal Region. The event took place in the presence of several dignitaries and railway officials.
The cover highlights a century of service and legacy of the Howrah Division, a major part of Indian Railways. The Howrah Division is the oldest division under the Eastern Railway zone of Indian Railways. Established on August 15, 1854, it marked the beginning of railway services in eastern India with the inaugural train journey from Howrah to Hooghly. The division’s headquarters is located at Howrah in West Bengal, and it plays a pivotal role in connecting Kolkata with various parts of India through an extensive railway network.
Permanent Pictorial Cancellation Released at Anjanadri Hill
Karnataka Postal Circle released a permanent pictorial cancellation on May 28, 2025, at Anegundi B.O., Anjanadri Hill.
It marks Kishkindha, the mythical land from the Ramayana and birthplace of Lord Hanuman. The spot, near Hanumanahalli in Gangavathi, is home to the sacred Anjaneya Temple. Pilgrims climb 575 steps to reach the hilltop shrine, known for its serene and divine atmosphere.
India Celebrates 50 Years of Sikkim Statehood with Commemorative Stamp
On May 29, 2025, India released a special postage stamp to mark 50 years of Sikkim’s statehood. The ceremony took place in Gangtok, Sikkim’s capital, honoring the state’s integration into India in 1975.
The stamp, issued by the Department of Posts, showcases Sikkim’s vibrant culture, scenic landscapes, and rich biodiversity. It highlights the state’s journey as India’s 22nd state and its contributions to the nation. This release celebrates Sikkim’s unique heritage and its harmonious blend of tradition and progress.
Permanent Pictorial Cancellation on Rani Abbakka Devi Released
A permanent pictorial cancellation on Rani Abbakka Devi was released on May 29, 2025, at Ullal. The cancellation honours the brave 16th-century queen.
Rani Abbakka Devi was the fearless 16th-century queen of Ullal who bravely fought the Portuguese for over 40 years. She is considered India’s first woman freedom fighter. Her legacy lives on through folk tales, festivals, and a Coast Guard ship named in her honour.
Museum Society of Mumbai Honoured with Special Postal Cover
On May 29, 2025, the Maharashtra Circle of India Post released a Special Cover to celebrate 60 years of the Museum Society of Mumbai. Shri Amitabh Singh, Chief Postmaster General (CPMG), led the release at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS).
The cover includes a special cancellation, marking six decades of the Society’s work in preserving India’s art, history, and heritage.
The event was attended by Mr. Cyrus Guzder, Chairman, Board of Trustees, CSMVS; Dr. Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Director General, CSMVS; Ms. Simran Kaur, Director Postal Services (HQ), Maharashtra Circle; and Dr. Pheroza J. Godrej, Chairperson Emeritus, Museum Society of Mumbai. (Source – Maharashtra Postal Circle)
Permanent Pictorial Cancellation on Kota Shivaram Karanth Released
A permanent pictorial cancellation on Kota Shivaram Karanth was introduced on May 30, 2025, at Kota Sub Post Office, Udupi Division.
The release was led by Sri Ramesh Prabhu, Superintendent of Post Offices, Udupi Division. Senior philatelist Sri M.K. Krishnayya and Sri Jayaprakash, Sub Postmaster of Kota SO, were present at the event.
Kota, a small town in Udupi district, Karnataka, is known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty. It is the birthplace of Jnanpith awardee Dr. Kota Shivaram Karanth, a legendary Kannada writer and thinker. The cancellation honours Kota Shivaram Karanth, a renowned Kannada writer, thinker, and cultural icon. Located near the Suvarna River, Kota is also famous for its traditional coastal cuisine and vibrant folk arts.
Permanent Pictorial Cancellation on Kavi Shaila Released
A permanent pictorial cancellation on Kavi Shaila, dedicated to Kuvempu, was released on May 30, 2025, at Devangi Sub Post Office, Karnataka.
Kavi Shaila is a hill monument built in memory of Rashtrakavi Kuvempu, located near his birthplace Kuppalli. Inspired by Stonehenge, it features rock pillars around Kuvempu’s memorial, symbolizing strength and creativity.
The cancellation honours Kuvempu’s literary legacy and celebrates his contribution to Kannada literature and Indian thought.
New Commemorative Postage Stamp Honours Ahilyabai Holkar on 300th Birth Anniversary in Bhopal
Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a commemorative postage stamp honoring Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar during a ceremony at Jamboree Ground in Bhopal. This release marks the 300th birth anniversary of the revered 18th-century queen.
The stamp features a portrait of Ahilyabai Holkar, celebrated for her exceptional governance and contributions to Indian culture. She is remembered for rebuilding temples, promoting education, and supporting social welfare.
For more details about this event, please visit: Postage Stamp on 300th Birth Anniversary of Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar
Signed, Stamped & Sent
A registered cover was sent from the Republic of Burundi to India in early 2025. It included a miniature sheet with two stamps of 5000 Burundian francs, issued in 2023. The stamps were canceled with a special pictorial postmark dated 30 January 2025, commemorating Martyrs’ Day. The cover was processed through Burundi’s postal system and sent via registered mail. It reached India and was delivered on 20 February 2025. A delivery postmark is present on the reverse side of the cover. Burundi frequently issues stamps featuring historical and international themes.
That wraps up this month’s journey through the world of philately!
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Until next time, keep collecting and stay stamped with curiosity!
Nicely compiled info on Philatelic releases across India.