Children’s Day 1976
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Children's Day |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | November 14, 1976 |
| Denomination | 25 p |
| Quantity | 3,000,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ x 14 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 698 Stamp Number IN 741 Yvert et Tellier IN 500 Stanley Gibbons IN 831 Phila-India IN 705 |
| Themes | Children | Drawings |
Children’s Day, celebrated on November 14th each year, is a special occasion dedicated to honoring and cherishing the joy and innocence of childhood. This year, the theme chosen for the Children’s Day stamp is Children’s Literature, highlighting the importance of books in shaping young minds. As children grow, they develop a love for reading and storytelling, which plays a crucial role in their intellectual and emotional growth.
Over the years, children’s literature in India has evolved significantly, transitioning from traditional folk tales to modern adventure stories and science fiction, reflecting the changing times. Despite these changes, classics, mythology, and legends continue to hold a special place in children’s literature, serving as a timeless treasure trove of wisdom and cultural heritage.
The Panchatantra, a collection of ancient Indian fables attributed to the Brahmin Vishnusharman, remains a beloved classic in children’s literature. These stories, with their engaging narratives and insightful moral lessons, have transcended borders and been translated into numerous languages worldwide.
In homage to the enduring legacy of the Panchatantra, the P and T Department has chosen a child’s painting based on one of its stories for the design of this year’s stamp. The selected painting depicts the poignant tale of the loyal mongoose, whose selfless act saves a baby from a snake, only to be mistaken for a threat by the farmer’s wife. The emotions captured in the painting – the mongoose’s hurt expression and the woman’s realization of her mistake – resonate deeply, conveying the timeless themes of loyalty, forgiveness, and redemption.
The artwork featured on the stamp and First Day Cover was created by talented young artists, 10-year-old Kum. Hansa D. Bhatia and Kum. Vyomini Mehta, respectively. These paintings were submitted as entries in a competition organized by Guest Keen & Williams Ltd. and graciously provided by Smt. Hara Gupta.
Through this commemorative stamp, the P and T Department celebrates the rich heritage of children’s literature in India and honors the timeless tales that continue to inspire and enchant young readers across generations.