About this stamp
The Kate Festival of Viet Nam is one of the most significant traditional celebrations of the Cham community, primarily observed in Ninh Thuan Province. Recognized by the Government of Viet Nam as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, the festival reflects the Cham people’s deep spiritual connection and gratitude towards their ancestral gods and deities.
The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion, marked by rituals, music, traditional dances, and vibrant processions. It is a time for the Cham community to honor their cultural roots, preserve their ancient customs, and strengthen social unity.
The stamp depicts the Cham Temple Tower, an architectural marvel from the Champa civilization of central Viet Nam. These temple towers, part of the My Son Sanctuary, date back to the 4th century AD and are dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. The Government of India has extended support in the restoration and preservation of this historic complex, symbolizing the deep civilizational linkages between India and Viet Nam.
Through the issuance of this stamp under the ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit 2018 series, the shared cultural and spiritual heritage between India and Viet Nam is celebrated — a reminder of the enduring bonds of faith, tradition, and friendship that unite the two nations.
