Head Post Office, Pune
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | INDIPEX 97 |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | December 15, 1997 |
| Denomination | Rs. 2 |
| Quantity | 700,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ x 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Printing Process | Photogravure |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1593 Stamp Number IN 1657 Yvert et Tellier IN 1369 Stanley Gibbons IN 1758 |
| Themes | Animals (Fauna) | Buildings | Elephants | Logos | Mammals | Philatelic Exhibitions | Post Offices |
Introduction
The Pune Head Post Office, popularly known as Pune GPO, is one of the notable heritage buildings associated with India’s postal history. It stands as a symbol of architectural elegance and the longstanding tradition of postal services in the country.
Construction and Location
The building was constructed in 1913 on a spacious two-acre campus situated in the heart of Pune city. Its prominent location reflects the importance of the Head Post Office as a central hub of communication and administration.
Architectural Style
The design of the Pune Head Post Office was inspired by the works of Andrea Palladio, the renowned 16th-century Italian Renaissance architect. The structure follows the Palladian style, known for balance, proportion, and classical beauty.
Its characteristic architectural features include:
- Tuscan columns in the verandah
- Arched windows
- Balustrades for railings and parapets
- High-ceiling halls
- Symmetrical and graceful design
Historical Significance
The building is not only an operational post office but also a reminder of the growth of organized postal communication during the colonial and modern periods of India.
Unique Garden Features
Within the garden premises are two historic “Hatti Dagad” (elephant stones), once used for tying elephants that carried mail in earlier times. These rare relics connect the building to an even older era of mail transport.
Philatelic Recognition
The Pune Head Post Office Heritage Building was featured in the final series of commemorative stamps issued for Indepex ’97 World Philatelic Exhibition, highlighting important themes of India’s postal herita