Feather Hand Fan, Delhi
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | December 30, 2017 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs.15 |
| Quantity | 100,000 |
| Perforation | 13 |
| Printer | India Security Press, Nashik |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Ms. Nenu Gupta Shri. jatin Das |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 3315 Yvert et Tellier IN 3006 Stanley Gibbons IN 3441 |
| Themes | Crafts |
The Regal Elegance of North India
Introduction
The Feather Hand Fan is one of the most graceful and opulent forms of traditional Indian hand fans. Composed primarily of peacock feathers, this exquisite fan radiates royal charm, artistic brilliance, and spiritual symbolism. Commonly found in Delhi, Rajasthan, and other parts of North India, the Feather Hand Fan is admired for its vibrant colors, soft texture, and intricate arrangement of feathers that transform it into a work of art.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The use of feather hand fans in India dates back to ancient times, where they served both ritualistic and royal purposes. In temples, peacock feather fans were used to fan deities during rituals, signifying devotion and reverence. In royal courts, these fans symbolized grandeur, prestige, and status, often held by attendants to offer comfort to kings, queens, and nobles.
The peacock, India’s national bird, holds deep symbolic value in Indian culture—representing beauty, purity, and divine protection. Hence, a hand fan crafted from its feathers naturally became a cherished object in temples, royal palaces, and aristocratic households.
Craftsmanship and Design
The creation of a Feather Hand Fan requires patience, precision, and an artistic eye. Each peacock feather is carefully trimmed and arranged in perfect symmetry to form a circular or oval-shaped fan. The fan’s handle is often made of wood, bamboo, or metal, sometimes adorned with embroidery, zari work, or bead decorations to enhance its aesthetic appeal.
Distinctive features include:
- Use of natural peacock feathers with shimmering hues of green and blue
- Handcrafted handles with ornate detailing
- Soft and lightweight design, ideal for both ritual and ornamental use
- Decorative and ceremonial versatility, often displayed as wall art or used in cultural performances
Cultural and Ritual Usage
Feather hand fans hold an important place in temple rituals and festivals across India. They are used to fan idols during daily prayers and special pujas, believed to please the deities with gentle waves of devotion. In dance performances such as Manipuri and Bharatanatyam, feather fans are used as expressive props to enhance visual storytelling.
In addition to their religious and cultural functions, these fans are also cherished as decorative accessories—symbolizing luxury and grace, often found adorning traditional homes and cultural centers.
Commemorative Postage Stamp
The Department of Posts honored the artistry and heritage of India’s traditional hand fans by issuing a commemorative postage stamp series on Indian Hand Fans. Among the sixteen unique designs featured, the Feather Hand Fan holds a special place for its elegant design, vibrant natural beauty, and cultural depth.
The stamp captures the splendor of the fan’s radiant peacock feathers, celebrating this timeless craft as a part of India’s artistic and spiritual legacy.
A Symbol of Grace and Devotion
The Feather Hand Fan is more than a cooling instrument—it is a symbol of refinement, faith, and cultural continuity. With every flutter of its iridescent feathers, it evokes echoes of India’s royal courts, sacred temples, and artistic traditions. This handcrafted marvel continues to mesmerize admirers, standing as a testament to India’s enduring love for beauty, symbolism, and skilled artistry.