Children’s Day 2010

Each year on 14 November, the Department of Posts commemorates Children’s Day with the release of special postage stamps. The occasion honours the birth anniversary of Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, whose deep affection for children made the day a celebration of innocence, hope, and the nation’s future.

A Tribute to Simpler Times

The National Children’s Day 2010 issue revives nostalgic memories of a childhood shaped by simple games and traditional toys — many of which belong to a world that existed before the rapid expansion of electronic technology. While modern progress has brought new opportunities and conveniences, this special stamp issue gently reminds us of a time when joy was found in handmade playthings and shared laughter.

It also draws attention to the lives of countless children who continue to grow up without access to technological comforts. For them, play remains rooted in imagination and resourcefulness.

The Spirit of Play

For the child playing on a dusty village road, turning cartwheels on busy city footpaths, or sleeping amidst slums and construction sites, happiness often comes from the simplest of objects. An old tyre rolled with a wire, a remnant of a balloon, or a small handmade toy can provide hours of delight. These humble playthings still matter — symbols of resilience, creativity, and the enduring magic of childhood.

Miniature Sheet – A Celebration of Traditional Toys

To mark the occasion, a Miniature Sheet comprising four commemorative postage stamps was issued under the theme National Children’s Day 2010: Toys. The set beautifully depicts traditional wooden and mud toys, including colourful dolls, spinning tops in vibrant hues, and kites that brighten a child’s sky. Among them are toys reminiscent of the famed handcrafted creations of Chennapatna.

The miniature sheet also features a charming little drag-cart, its stretched drum rattling happily as a child pulls it along with a stick — an image that captures the carefree rhythm of childhood.

The accompanying brochure bursts into life with a riot of pin-wheels, reinforcing the playful spirit of the theme. The First Day Cover evokes poetic nostalgia, echoing the sentiment:
“Take away my wealth and my fame, snatch away my youth, but give me back the monsoons of my childhood; the paper boat and the raindrops…”

A Message of Compassion

This special philatelic issue celebrates a return to innocence and the tenderness of cherished memories. At the same time, it pays tribute to compassion for children who have less than others. Through this thoughtful release, India Post invites us to share awareness, kindness, and opportunity — extending the joy of childhood to every child.

The stamps serve not only as collectibles but also as reminders that the true wealth of a nation lies in the happiness and well-being of its children.