Philately exhibition in Kerala displays world's first and rare stamps

Some unique and rare stamps, ranging from the world's first 'Penny Black' to India's heritage stamps are on display at a two-day philately exhibition called 'Kochipex 2014'. 

Stamps depicting Jesus Christ's life (birth to resurrection) and painter-sculptor Leonardo da Vinci's 'Vitrovian Man' were also on display at the exhibition.

The exhibition that started with a ceremonial function was a visual treat for the enthusiasts and stamp collectors.

The exhibition also gave a chance to exhibit collection of coins and Indian rupee notes for the collectors.

Stamps carrying photos of former politicians and greats like Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and Mahatma Gandhi among others also attracted visitors.

M. Venkateswarlu, Post Master-General, said such exhibitions should be organised regularly across the country to encourage the hobby of collecting stamps, especially among students.

"Here, we are conducting a district level philatelic exhibition in Ernakulam for two days, starting from today and tomorrow also we have kept these stamps for exhibition. Professor K.V. Thomas, honourable lawmaker, has inaugurated this exhibition," said Venkateswarlu.

The postal department had arranged stamps in various segments and themes such as devotional, personality and celebrities, places of importance and rare ones including nature and 'mystamp'.

A stamp collector, Atish Kumar Jain, said Indian stamps are mostly based on famous personalities while foreign stamps depict various themes.

"I have been collecting stamps for the past 12 years. My collection is generally based on printing mistakes and errors. I collect different types of stamps that have gold, silver on it, stamps that glitter at night. But mainly I collect stamps with printing mistakes," said Jain.

The event would also feature philatelic quiz, painting and letter writing competition for school children.

The Department of Posts would evaluate the entries under competition segment and awards would be presented to the winning exhibits.

Source: business-standard.com