Upon establishing this blog, I endeavored to select an appropriate name, only to discover that it had already been claimed by someone else. Undeterred, I contemplated the inherent sweetness associated with the term "dairy" and found resonance with the delightful nature of Postcrossing. Consequently, I crafted the page under the title "Postcrossing Dairy." Please refrain from interpreting this choice as an error or typographical mistake.
Friday, August 7, 2026
Handlooms of India
Saturday, July 11, 2026
Historical journey morse key in Sri Lanka
The postage stamp featured in the image is a significant commemorative issue celebrating a crucial milestone in Sri Lanka's telecommunications history. The name of the country, 'SRI LANKA', is prominently inscribed at the top left in three languages: Sinhalese, Tamil, and English. At the center of the stamp is a map of the island, beautifully designed alongside illustrations of historic communication equipment that represent the country's technological journey. The face value of the stamp is clearly marked as 2.00 rupees.
This particular stamp was issued to commemorate the 125th anniversary of telecommunication services in the country, as indicated by the bold text "125 YEARS OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS". This historical journey of over a century highlights the birth and rapid evolution of modern information exchange in Sri Lanka, making this stamp a valuable historical document in its own right.
A closer look at the map reveals the inscription "1st Telegraph Transmission - 1858", with a red line connecting two major coastal cities: Colombo and Galle. This marks the historic moment in 1858 when the first-ever telegraph service was successfully established between these two locations. Flanking the map are detailed illustrations of an early telegraph key and an antique receiver or horn loudspeaker, visually emphasizing the vintage nature of this early technology.
In conclusion, this postage stamp is far more than just a piece of paper used for mailing; it is a miniature archive of Sri Lanka’s communication heritage. It serves as a timeless reminder of an era when cities were first connected through electrical signals, making it a prized collectible for historians and philatelists alike.
Saturday, June 6, 2026
Book Review: Philately for the Young
Philately for the Young, authored by Mathew Varki, illustrated by Seema Pandey, and edited by Bhavana Nair, serves as an engaging and comprehensive primer designed to transform casual stamp collectors into passionate philatelists. The book is beautifully typeset in Palatino font and features a vibrant cover designed by Subir Roy. Spanning 100 pages, this publication elegantly guides readers through the educational and historical layers behind global and Indian postage stamps, showing how they vividly reveal a nation's history, flora, fauna, and culture.
The volume transitions smoothly from general hobbyist practices to serious philatelic study, providing foundational knowledge that is accessible yet intellectually stimulating for younger audiences. The text emphasizes that stamp collecting is far more than a passing interest; it is a serious pursuit capable of bringing lifetime intellectual growth and pleasure. By exploring the technical and artistic details shown on the stamps displayed across the cover pages in 1003923864.heic, the book transforms small pieces of adhesive paper into fascinating windows of historical and cultural storytelling.
Published by the Children’s Book Trust and printed at Indraprastha Press, Nehru House, 4 Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi, this well-preserved guide stands as an excellent addition to any beginner’s library. The publisher's attention to detail ensures that the text maintains a high standard of quality, perfect for inspiring the next generation of researchers. The physical book retains its enduring charm, showing a timeless layout that appeals directly to curious minds ready to dive into a structured, rewarding pursuit.
Priced affordably at Rs. 45.00, this 100-page educational resource is identifiable by its unique identifier, ISBN 81-7011-769-0, as shown on the back cover page in. It offers outstanding value for educators, parents, and young collectors eager to explore the world through a philatelic lens. By blending visual storytelling with practical guidance, it remains a foundational entry point for an enriching lifelong hobby.
Wednesday, June 3, 2026
Post Haste: Quintessential India by B G Verghese
Post Haste: Quintessential India by B G Verghese offers a fascinating, multi-layered exploration of India's evolution, cleverly viewed through the unique prism of its postal stamps. Published by Tranquebar, an imprint of Westland Books, this beautifully conceived volume serves as a comprehensive "tour d’horizon" of what constitutes the rich tapestry of Incredible India, or Bharat. Rather than relying solely on dry historical timelines, the author uses philatelic history to bridge the gap between an ancient civilizational concept and a modern nation-state in the making.
The core of the book addresses a profound cultural gap: the reality that far too many contemporary Indians know very little about their immense collective past. Verghese highlights how vital elements of Indian heritage have traditionally been left to oral traditions embedded in fading folklore, fables, and festivals. By anchoring these narratives to physical, government-issued stamps, the book beautifully preserves the stories of an amazing heterogeneity of peoples, races, faiths, histories, and cultures that have bound the subcontinent together for millennia.
Verghese does not shy away from the complexities of the modern era, capturing a new India that is being born with great hope, but notably, not without trauma. The text meticulously chronicles the multiplicity of transitions the nation undergoes across its social, political, and cultural landscapes. It acts as a visual and textual archive, ensuring that the legacy of a diverse nation isn't lost to time, but instead celebrated through the art and history of its postal system.
Spanning 372 pages, this insightful reference book features a striking red cover designed by Ahlawat Gunjan, shaped like a classic postage stamp. Priced at ₹1295, the book is a premium addition to any history or media enthusiast's collection, carrying the ISBN 978-93-83260-97-3. It stands out as an indispensable read for anyone looking to understand the deeper, interconnected layers of Indian identity through an incredibly creative and accessible medium.
Tuesday, June 2, 2026
The Complete Letter Writer
Another Original publication of POCKET BOOKS
POCKET BOOKS, a Simon & Schuster division of GULF & WESTERN CORPORATION 1230 Avenue of the Americas, New York, N.Y. 10020, USA.
Copyright 1957, 1968 by N. H. and S. K. Mager
Address
Pocket Books,
1230 Avenue of the Americas, New York, N.Y. 10020, USA.
ISBN: 0-671-83360-X
First Pocket Books printing (revised edition) December, 1968
Thursday, May 28, 2026
India Post: A Journey through Ages
The book India Post: A Journey through Ages provides an illuminating exploration into one of the world's most extensive communication networks. Written by Arvind Kumar Singh, a well-known investigative journalist, and smoothly translated into English by Shailendra Das, this volume serves as both a historical record and a cultural tribute. Published under the Young India Library series by the National Book Trust, India, the text traces how a sprawling institution successfully bound a diverse nation together long before the advent of digital technology.
Spanning 485 pages, the narrative meticulously charts how the modern Indian postal system emerged from a historical lineage thousands of years in the making. The book emphasizes that the postal network was far more than a bureaucratic apparatus; it functioned as a vital catalyst for cultural exchange, economic expansion, and social integration. Even in an era dominated by instantaneous internet communications, the author beautifully underscores how the emotional weight of a simple, handwritten postcard continues to retain its unique charm and significance.
The text does not shy away from detailing the operational complexities and the massive workforce driving this institution. Despite being more than 150 years old in its organized form, the network continuously adapts to the modern communication revolution. The book sheds light on the lakhs of postal workers who act as essential threads in the social fabric, delivering news of both joy and sorrow to remote corners of the country while simultaneously securing a livelihood for countless families across rural and urban terrains.
Written in an easy and lucid style, the book is highly accessible to general readers and historians alike. It is enriched with rare pictures that offer a vivid visual insight into the various stages of development, daily functioning, and ongoing modernization of India Post. From traditional mail runners to the integration of modern Post Office Savings Banks and EMS Speed Post services, the evolutionary milestones of the department are brought to life with impressive clarity.
The author's background as an investigative journalist shines through the thorough research and analytical depth present on every page. Arvind Kumar Singh, who received a prestigious litterateur award for journalism from the Hindi Akademi, Delhi, for the year 1999–2000, utilizes his sharp investigative vision to build a compelling narrative. Currently serving as the Resident Editor of the Hindi newspaper Hari Bhoomi and having toured numerous Asian countries, Singh brings a seasoned, global perspective to this domestic history.
This comprehensive hardcover or paperback volume is identified by ISBN 978-81-237-5592-2 and was first published in 2009 (Saka 1931). It is an incredibly affordable addition to any personal library, priced at just Rs 150.00. The excellent production quality and intentional historical preservation reflect the high standards expected of its prestigious publisher, making it a valuable educational resource for anyone interested in India's institutional history.
For those looking to procure a copy, the book is officially published by
The Director,
National Book Trust,
5, Nehru Bhawan,
Institutional Area, Phase-II,
Vasant Kunj,
New Delhi-110070.
Through this detailed address, readers, researchers, and institutions can connect directly with the publishers to explore this definitive journey through the ages of India's postal legacy.
Wednesday, May 27, 2026
Indian Postal History - A Book
The story of how messages traveled across vast distances is essentially the story of how human connections were forged, and few regions offer as rich a backdrop for this narrative as Tamil Nadu. In his seminal March 2011 work, Indian Postal History, author K. Ramachandiran explores this intricate evolution across 230 meticulously detailed pages, tracing the routes, systems, and administrative milestones that shaped communication networks.
This book Published by Chennai’s own Imayaa Publication, located at 6/11 Ramakrishna Road, Nehru Nagar, Chromepet, Chennai 600 044, the book serves as a vital historical repository. It captures how the state’s regional networks seamlessly integrated into the broader tapestry of the subcontinent's communication legacy, preserving a crucial piece of Southern India's heritage. Bringing this meticulous research to life required a dedicated collaborative effort rooted in the local literary community.
The book’s striking visual presentation, including its cover design, graphics, and layout format, was crafted by H.A. Jaleel, while the physical volumes were printed by Bharathi Achagam in Chennai. For readers looking to add this volume to their collection, it is available for purchase directly from the publisher's Chromepet address at a price of ₹400. It can be found in both a durable hardbound edition (ISBN: 978-81-920198-0-2) and an accessible paperback format (ISBN: 978-81-920198-1-9), standing as a testament to local craftsmanship and historical preservation. Copyrighted by the author since 2011, the text ensures that the unique postal legacy of Tamil Nadu is documented with both academic rigor and local pride.
The scholarly depth of the volume is underscored by the generous financial support it received from the Indian Council of Historical Research. It is important to note, however, that the intriguing theories, facts stated, and opinions expressed within its pages remain entirely those of K. Ramachandiran and do not necessarily reflect the official views of the Council, nor do they obligate the Department of Posts, India. By maintaining this independent academic voice, the book offers an authentic, unbiased window into the past, making it an indispensable read for historians, philatelists, and anyone captivated by the ways our ancestors stayed connected.
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
Rediscovery of India: Through Pictorial Cancellations
First Edition: 2022
Price: ₹250/-
Pages:112
Published by
National Philatelic Museum
Dak Bhawan,
Sansad Marg,
New Delhi 110001
Website: www.epostoffice.gov.in/Login.aspa?service=Philately
E-mail: npmdakbhawan@gmail.com
Phone: 011-23096209, 011-23044941
Monday, May 25, 2026
Thematic Collecting: Text as the Primary Subject
Just as you would collect stamps featuring birds, trains, or maps, some collectors focus on stamps where typography, specific quotes, historical text, or literature is the central design element instead of an image.
Examples:
Microprinting / Microtext: Tiny, hidden text embedded into a stamp design, often used as a security feature to prevent counterfeiting.
Poetry and Famous Speeches: Stamps printed with full stanzas of poems, declarations of independence, or historical quotes.
Calligraphy: Stamps celebrating the art of beautiful writing (common in East Asian and Islamic philately).
Microprinting is an anti-counterfeiting technique utilizing text, patterns, or numbers so small they are indistinguishable to the naked eye, requiring magnification (usually 4x to 10x) to become legible. While common in U.S. and European banknotes, Italian postage stamps (issued by Poste Italiane) more heavily rely on traditional security features like intricate intaglio, sophisticated engraving, and watermarks.
Key Anti-Counterfeit & Micro-Features
Forgeries are a primary concern for high-value collectibles and international mail.
To authenticate and secure modern Italian stamps, collectors and inspectors look for the following:
Micro-lettering: On some modern commemorative Italian stamps, you may find microscopic hidden text—such as the initials of the designer, the issuing authority (e.g., "IPZS" for the Italian State Printing Works, Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato), or the country name.
Intaglio Printing: Many Italian stamps use traditional engraving that yields a slightly raised, heavily detailed texture. When microprinted elements are applied using intaglio, they remain crisp and three-dimensional, whereas photocopies of the stamp will blur into a solid line.
Security Watermarks: A quintessential Italian security feature tracing its roots to 1282 in Bologna. Modern Italian stamps feature specialized paper watermarks that are embedded during production, making them nearly impossible to replicate perfectly using scanning or printing.
How to Inspect Them?
To identify if an Italian stamp is microprinted, you will need a reliable magnifying tool.
Tools: Use a 10x folding magnifier or an acrylic dome magnifier with an LED light.
What to Look For: Examine the margins, borders, or dense graphic areas of the stamp.
If you see what appears to be a thin colored line under normal vision but resolves into tiny repeating words or numbers upon magnification, the stamp contains microprint.
Security Microprinting: If you look closely at the upper right and left corners, the background isn't just lines; it’s composed of tiny, repeated micro-text reading "POSTE ITALIANE," a security feature used to deter counterfeiting.
Sunday, May 11, 2025
Chennai Hosts Engaging Summer Workshop on Stamps
Philately enthusiasts and curious minds gathered 11-5-2025 for the third week session of a five-week Summer Workshop on Philately & Postcrossing, jointly presented by Postally Hut and the Madras Postcrossing Commune. The free workshop, held at the Chess Square, Nageswara Rao Park, Luz Ave, Mylapore, Chennai, witnessed an enthusiastic turnout from all age groups.
The third week featured insightful sessions from experts in the field. Mr. Rolands Nelson delivered an engaging speech on the "Different Types of Stamps," enlightening the audience on the diverse world of postal issues, their designs, and historical significance.
Following this, Mr. Shridaran, a senior and highly respected philatelist, captivated the attendees with a lecture on "Discovering Postage Stamps." Mr. Shridaran went beyond mere presentation, showcasing a remarkable collection of unique stamps, offering a tangible glimpse into the rich tapestry of philately. His passion for the subject was evident as he shared the stories and intricacies behind these miniature pieces of art and history.
The workshop, scheduled weekend from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, promises to delve further into the fascinating realms of stamp collecting and the global hobby of postcrossing. Today's successful session has set a positive tone for the days to come, fostering a sense of community and learning among participants.
Organizers expressed their delight at the enthusiastic response and look forward to continuing to share the joys of philately and postcrossing with the Chennai community throughout the week.
Monday, May 5, 2025
தபால்தலை சேகரிப்பு மற்றும் போஸ்ட்கிராசிங் - கோடைக்கால பயிற்சி முகாம்
சென்னை மயிலாப்பூரில் தபால்தலை சேகரிப்பு மற்றும் போஸ்ட்கிராசிங் குறித்த கோடைக்கால பயிற்சி முகாமினை போஸ்டலி ஹட் மற்றும் மெட்ராஸ் போஸ்ட்கிராசிங் கம்யூன் இணைந்து நடத்தி வருகிறது.
தபால்தலை சேகரிப்பு மற்றும் போஸ்ட்கிராசிங் குறித்த 5 நாள் கோடைக்கால பயிற்சி முகாமில் மூன்றாம் வாரமாக, மே 11, 2025 அன்று "அஞ்சல் தலைகளைக் கண்டறிவோம்" என்ற தலைப்பிலான இந்த இலவச பயிற்சி முகாம் அனைத்து வயதினருக்குமானதாகும். இது சென்னை, மயிலாப்பூர், நாகேஸ்வர ராவ் பூங்கா, லஸ் அவென்யூ, முகவரியில் உள்ள செஸ் சதுக்கத்தில் மாலை 4:00 மணி முதல் 6:00 மணி வரை நடைபெறும்.
இந்த பயனுள்ள தகவலை வெளியிட்ட KYN-க்கு எங்கள் மனமார்ந்த நன்றிகள். தபால்தலை சேகரிப்பில் ஆர்வமுள்ள அனைவரும் இந்த வாய்ப்பைப் பயன்படுத்திக் கொள்ளும்படி கேட்டுக் கொள்கிறோம். பதிவு செய்ய இணைப்பு கருத்துப்பெட்டியில் உள்ளது.
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Saturday, April 19, 2025
A Radio Postcard Journey - 48
A Glimpse of Beijing Olympics Through a China Post Prepaid Postcard. This sticker prepaid postcard, issued and marketed by China Post, offers a snapshot of the excitement surrounding the Beijing Olympics. Released to commemorate the grand sporting event, this postcard also coincided with the launch of China's dedicated CCTV Olympic Channel, highlighting the nation's fervor for the Games.
Bearing the individual number 0177963, this collectible item offers more than just well wishes. Its design is a fascinating blend of technology and nostalgia. The pictures features a captivating array of eight distinct radio sets alongside a solitary gramophone player. This juxtaposition likely symbolizes the evolution of communication and entertainment, perhaps nodding to the modern broadcasting of the Olympics while acknowledging older forms of media.
Adding further intrigue to this postal artifact are the three special Pictorial Cancellations it bears. These unique markings, often applied to commemorate specific events or locations, would undoubtedly hold significance for collectors and add layers to the postcard's story.
This particular postcard embarked on its journey through the Postcrossing Forum in 2021, sent by Ashlay from China. This detail underscores the global reach of postcards and the way they connect people across borders, even after the initial celebratory event has passed. This China Post prepaid postcard, with its Olympic connection, technological imagery, special cancellations, and Postcrossing journey, serves as a tangible piece of history and a testament to the enduring appeal of both philately and international connection.
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Free Summer Workshop on Philately & Postcrossing
Postally Hut and Madras Postcrossing Commune Announce Free Summer Workshop on Philately & Postcrossing
Postally Hut and the Madras Postcrossing Commune are delighted to announce a joint five-day summer workshop on the fascinating hobbies of philately (stamp collecting) and postcrossing (sending and receiving postcards from around the world). This engaging and educational workshop is *free* and open to participants of all age groups.
The workshop will be held every Saturday starting from April 27th, 2025, to May 25th, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Chess Square, Nageswara Rao Park, Luz Ave, Bhaskarapuram, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004.
Participants will have the opportunity to delve into the captivating worlds of stamps and postcards through a series of interactive sessions covering various aspects of these enriching pastimes:
27.04.2025: Introduction to Postcrossing
04.05.2025: The Art of Postcard Writing
11.05.2025: Discovering Postage Stamps
18.05.2025: Exploring Special Covers
25.05.2025: Postcard Journaling
This workshop provides a unique platform for individuals to learn about different cultures, improve their writing skills, and connect with people globally through the simple joy of sending and receiving postcards. Philately enthusiasts will gain insights into the history, design, and significance of postage stamps.
Registration is mandatory for participation. Interested individuals are requested to scan the QR code provided in the poster to register for the workshop.
The workshop is organized by Dr. T. Jaisakthivel.
Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to explore the exciting worlds of philately and postcrossing!
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Wednesday, December 11, 2024
SIPA AMRITPEX AWARD
I'm also thrilled to share that I recently won a Silver Medal at the SIPA AMRITPEX for my thematic exhibit, "Radio Broadcasting." This prestigious philatelic exhibition was held in Chennai and showcased the incredible world of stamps and postal history.
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A Silver Lining: My Journey to AMRITPEX 2023
I'm thrilled to share that I won a Silver Bronze Medal at the AMRITPEX 2023 National Philatelic Exhibition for my thematic exhibit titled "Radio in the Podcasting Age." This exhibition was held from February 11th to 15th, 2023 at Hall No. 5, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
My exhibit focused on the fascinating evolution of radio and its impact on the rise of podcasting. It showcased a collection of stamps, postcards, FDC, Miniature Sheets, Travel Envelopes and other philatelic items related to radio, broadcasting, and audio technology. I poured my heart and soul into curating this collection, and it was incredibly rewarding to see it recognized with this award.
Attending AMRITPEX 2023 was an unforgettable experience. I had the opportunity to meet fellow philatelists from all over India, learn about their collections, and share my own passion for this hobby. The exhibition was also a great opportunity to learn about the latest trends in philately and to connect with experts in the field.
I want to express my sincere gratitude to the jury and organizing committee of AMRITPEX 2023 for recognizing my work. I would also like to thank Mr.Rolands Nelson a senior philatelist and President of SIPA. I also thank my family and friends for their support and encouragement throughout this Philatelic journey.
Winning this award has only fueled my passion for philately. I'm already working on my next exhibit TANAPEX 2025, and I'm excited to share it with the world. I hope to continue representing India at international philatelic events and bringing home more honors for our country.
If you're interested in learning more about philately, I encourage you to visit your local philatelic society or join an online community. It's a fascinating hobby that can take you on a journey through history and culture.
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Thursday, December 5, 2024
Chennai Philatelic Bureau Showcases Chennai-themed Postcards Ahead of TANAPEX 2025
In anticipation of the upcoming TANAPEX 2025 philatelic exhibition, the Philatelic Bureau located on Anna Salai in Chennai is currently hosting a special exhibit featuring over 180 postcards with Chennai-centric themes. This unique collection, curated by local philatelist Jaisakthivel, offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's rich history as seen through the lens of postcards.
The exhibition, which is open to the public for the next five days, provides a rare opportunity for stamp collectors and history enthusiasts to explore a wide range of postcards that depict various aspects of Chennai's past. From early issues to more recent commemoratives, the collection covers a broad chronological period and showcases the city's evolution over the centuries.
Situated directly opposite the iconic Devi Theatre, the Philatelic Bureau itself holds a special place in the city's cultural heritage. As South India's first-ever cinema hall, the this Theatre played a pivotal role in shaping Chennai's entertainment landscape. Today, the building serves as a dedicated service center for stamp collectors, a fitting tribute to the enduring appeal of philately.
"We are thrilled to be hosting this special exhibition in conjunction with TANAPEX 2025," said Jaisakthivel, the curator of the exhibit. "Chennai has a fascinating and storied past, and these postcards provide a tangible connection to that history. We invite everyone to come and explore this unique collection."
Saturday, November 4, 2023
India Post Payments Bank Special Pictorial Cancellation
On 19 August 2015, the India Post received licence to run a payments bank from the Reserve Bank of India. On 17 August 2016, it was registered as a public limited government company for setting up a payments bank. IPPB is operating with the Department of Posts under Ministry of Communications.
Friday, April 8, 2022
St.Vincent stamp with the India Post Philately Symbol
Interesting postcard received recently from Czech Republic. It
carried a St.Vincent stamp. When I looked at it, I saw the Peacock
symbol in the corner of this stamp. Then I used my magnifier and saw the
details. At last I came to know, it was released at the
India 89 World Philatelic Exhibition by St.Vincent. Postcrossing always surprise us.
Saturday, December 18, 2021
A Special cover on "Voice of Liberation"
Wednesday, December 15, 2021
Stamp on 50th anniversary of Swarnim Vijay Diwas
Rajnath Singh issues commemorative postage stamp on the occasion of 50th anniversary of ‘Swarnim Vijay Diwas’ at National War Memorial in New Delhi on 16 Dec 2021.
#VijayDiwas2021
Handlooms of India
India Post has officially immortalized the nation’s rich textile legacy with a stunning set of four commemorative postage stamps dedicated t...
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The book India Post: A Journey through Ages provides an illuminating exploration into one of the world's most extensive communication n...
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Post Haste: Quintessential India by B G Verghese offers a fascinating, multi-layered exploration of India's evolution, cleverly viewed ...
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India Post has officially immortalized the nation’s rich textile legacy with a stunning set of four commemorative postage stamps dedicated t...






















