28Th Olympics – Wrestling

Commemorative Stamp Set: 28th Olympic Games – Wrestling

Design Elements:

• The commemorative stamp set for the 28th Olympic Games features an illustration of two wrestlers locked in combat, symbolizing the intensity and skill of the sport. The background may showcase a wrestling mat or ancient Greek motifs to connect modern competition with the origins of the sport.
• Wrestling is depicted in both Greco-Roman and Freestyle forms, capturing the diversity of techniques and traditions.
• The stamp includes key details such as the Olympic Rings, the year “2004“, and the location, Athens, where the games were held.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

• Wrestling has been a part of the Olympic tradition since its inception in 776 BC, making it one of the oldest Olympic sports.
• The sport’s inclusion in the Athens 2004 Games marked a return to its historical roots, paying homage to the ancient Greek wrestling competitions.
• For India, wrestling holds cultural significance as a traditional sport known as kushti or pehlwani, practiced in villages and urban centers for centuries. Indian wrestlers have competed at the Olympics since the 1920s, adding to the nation’s rich history in the sport.

Usage:

• The stamp set is a way to celebrate India’s participation in the 2004 Olympics and recognize the heritage of wrestling.
• Collectors and sports enthusiasts alike can commemorate India’s continued presence in the Olympic Games.
• The stamps serve as postal currency, usable on letters and packages, while also functioning as mementos of national pride in Indian sports.

Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set:

• The stamp set honors the Olympic spirit and India’s athletic achievements. Wrestling is an essential sport in India’s Olympic journey, and this stamp set celebrates that legacy.
• It promotes the values of strength, endurance, and competition, which are integral to both the sport of wrestling and the Olympics.
• Stamps like these help preserve sporting history for future generations and encourage interest in national and international athletics.

Example of the Stamp Design:

• The stamp features two athletes grappling, one preparing for a throw, set against the backdrop of the Olympic Rings. The image evokes the physicality and discipline required in wrestling. The denomination is Rs. 5/-, making it accessible for general postal use.

Significance:

• This stamp set symbolizes India’s Olympic ambitions and wrestling tradition, bridging ancient sports history with modern competition.
• It highlights wrestling’s status as a cornerstone of global athletics and India’s growing prowess in the sport.
• By issuing this stamp, India Post reinforces the connection between cultural heritage, modern sportsmanship, and national pride.