Children’s Day 2004

Commemorative Stamp Set: Children’s Day – Festivals Through a Child’s Eyes

Design Elements:

• Artwork by Children: The stamps feature watercolor paintings created by the winners of the All India Stamp Design Competition. Kumari Pallavi Majumder’s vibrant depiction of a festival is showcased on the stamp, while Kumari Sughosh S. Neergundh’s artwork is used for the First Day Cover. Both designs capture the joyful simplicity and wonder children associate with festivals.
• Festive Imagery: The designs incorporate traditional festival symbols like colorful flowers, fireworks, and village scenes, reflecting the essence of celebrations in rural India.
• Childlike Innocence: The stamps emphasize the purity of joy and the beauty of festivals as seen through a child’s perspective, using bright colors and playful elements to evoke a sense of happiness and simplicity.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

The commemorative stamp celebrates Children’s Day on November 14th, honoring the innocence and creativity of children. The day marks the birth anniversary of Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, who was known for his deep affection for children. This stamp set also reflects India’s rich cultural heritage, where festivals form a central part of life, and acknowledges the significant role that children play in preserving the joy and traditions of these celebrations.

Usage:

The stamps are perfect for use during Children’s Day celebrations, as well as throughout the year to mark festivals and special occasions. They can be used for everyday postal services, encouraging the spread of joy through letters, postcards, and invitations. The bright, festive designs are ideal for adding a touch of vibrancy to correspondence during India’s festival season.

Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set:

This commemorative set emphasizes the importance of children’s perspectives in understanding the essence of festivals and celebrations. By showcasing artwork from young artists, the Department of Posts celebrates the boundless creativity of India’s future generation. The stamps also serve as a tribute to India’s colorful festival traditions, while spreading messages of hope, joy, and cultural pride across the country.

Example of the Stamp Design:

The main stamp would feature Kumari Pallavi Majumder’s watercolor painting of a village festival. The image captures joyous moments, with colorful villagers celebrating amidst fireworks, dancing, and traditional decorations. The First Day Cover would display Sughosh S. Neergundh’s artwork, showing children playing during a festival with kites and flowers, symbolizing youthful excitement.

The Commemorative Stamp Set Might Include:

• Festival Symbols: Various festival elements such as lamps, garlands, and kites, representing celebrations like Diwali, Holi, and other regional festivals.
• Village Scenes: Rural life depicted through images of village festivals, simple yet vibrant in their portrayal of joy.
• Children’s Artwork: Stamps designed entirely from competition-winning entries, fostering creativity and recognizing the talent of young Indian artists.

Significance:

This stamp set holds deep cultural significance as it reflects India’s love for festivals while fostering a connection with the younger generation. It symbolizes how traditions are passed down and cherished by children, ensuring the continuity of Indian customs. The set also highlights the importance of nurturing children’s creativity and imagination, reinforcing that their innocent perspectives are central to understanding joy in its purest form. By issuing this commemorative stamp, the Department of Posts reinforces its commitment to celebrating both the country’s cultural heritage and the boundless potential of its future citizens.