Beautiful India

Photography Competition Commemorative Postage Stamps

Since 2015, the Department of Posts has been organizing national-level stamp design competitions on the occasions of Republic Day, Independence Day, and Children’s Day. Based on the creative entries received from participants across the country, selected designs are transformed into postage stamps and philatelic products, while the top three winners are awarded cash prizes.

In a novel initiative, a nationwide photography competition on the theme “Beautiful India” was conducted on the occasion of Independence Day 2017. This special contest invited photographers to capture the essence of India’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and natural beauty.

Award-Winning Photographers

The first three prize winners of the Photography Competition were:

• Sh. K. Narayanaswamy
• Mr. Pulkit Tyagi
• Sh. Mihir Singh

Photographs submitted by Sh. K. Narayanaswamy, Mr. Pulkit Tyagi, Sh. Mihir Singh, Ms. Surya R. G., and Smt. Chamah Sharma were selected for designing the Commemorative Postage Stamps, First Day Cover (FDC), and Brochure.

India – A Land of Unity in Diversity

India is a unique nation celebrated for its extraordinary diversity—

• Diversity in geography
• Diversity in languages
• Diversity in food and clothing
• Diversity in festivals and traditions

With over 5,000 years of recorded history, India’s civilization is among the oldest in the world. Its cultural heritage has flourished through centuries of cross-cultural exchanges while maintaining a remarkable spirit of unity in diversity. The theme “Beautiful India” perfectly captures this mosaic of landscapes, people, and traditions.

Depicting the Beauty of India

The selected photographs highlight the stunning natural and cultural landscapes of the country:

• A picturesque avenue lined with trees laden with yellow blossoms, with young girls walking to school — symbolizing hope and everyday rural charm.
• The majestic hills of Lahaul, Himachal Pradesh, showcasing the serene grandeur of the Himalayas.
• A refreshing and unique perspective of the Taj Mahal, captured from the garden, offering a new angle on one of India’s most iconic monuments.
• The tranquil beauty of Saryulsar Lake in Kullu, reflecting nature’s calm magnificence.
• A serene pond encircled by hyacinths and filled with countless small water birds, presenting a mesmerizing glimpse of India’s rich biodiversity.

Each image reflects a different dimension of India’s scenic splendor and cultural richness.

Commemorative Postage Stamps and Miniature Sheet

To celebrate this initiative, the Department of Posts released a Miniature Sheet and a set of two Commemorative Postage Stamps on “Beautiful India.”

These philatelic issues not only honour the creativity of talented photographers but also showcase India’s natural beauty and cultural diversity to collectors and admirers worldwide.

The Beautiful India Commemorative Postage Stamps and Miniature Sheet serve as a visual tribute to the nation’s landscapes, heritage, and enduring spirit — capturing India’s timeless charm in miniature form.