India Israel – Joint Issue

India–Israel Joint Stamp: Celebrating Holi and Purim

The bonds between India and Israel have grown remarkably since the formal establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992. What began as a new partnership three decades ago has today blossomed into a dynamic relationship spanning defence, technology, agriculture, water management, and culture.

A major milestone in this journey was the historic visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Israel in 2017, followed by the reciprocal visit of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to India in 2018. These visits set the tone for closer cooperation, symbolizing the shared values and aspirations of both nations.

A Partnership Built on Innovation and Cooperation

India’s rising global stature and Israel’s reputation as the “Start-Up Nation” have created fertile ground for collaboration. Together, the two countries are:

• Advancing defence and strategic cooperation
• Partnering in agricultural technology, with Israel sharing its expertise in precision farming, drip irrigation, and desalination
• Establishing 31 Agriculture Centres of Excellence across 13 Indian states, benefitting farmers by improving the quality and yield of horticultural produce
• Strengthening ties in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, smart solutions, cyber security, and quantum computing under India’s Make in India initiative

From a modest bilateral trade of around USD 200 million in 1992, economic ties have surged to nearly USD 10.77 billion in FY 2022–23, showcasing the strength of this partnership.

Shared Cultural Heritage and Diaspora Connections

Beyond diplomacy and trade, the relationship between India and Israel thrives on deep-rooted cultural ties.

• The Jewish community in India has flourished for centuries, contributing to the country’s diverse cultural fabric.
• The Indian diaspora in Israel — including professionals, caregivers, businesspeople, and students — serves as a living bridge between the two nations.
• Indian traditions such as yoga, Ayurveda, cinema, and cuisine enjoy great popularity in Israel. Events like the International Day of Yoga are celebrated with enthusiasm, while young Israelis travel to India in large numbers, drawn to its spirituality and culture.
• Festivals like Diwali and Hanukkah or Holi and Purim reveal striking similarities, reinforcing the shared spirit of resilience, devotion, and joy.

The Joint Stamp on Holi and Purim

To honor these enduring bonds, the Department of Posts has released a special India–Israel Joint Postage Stamp themed on the festivals of Holi and Purim.

• Purim, a Jewish festival, commemorates the survival of the Jewish people through the courage of Queen Esther against the evil designs of Haman in the Persian Empire.
• Holi, a Hindu festival, celebrates the triumph of faith and devotion as young prince Prahlada survived the deadly plot of his father Hiranyakashipu and his sister Holika, thanks to his unwavering devotion to God.

Despite originating in different faiths, both festivals carry a shared message of the victory of good over evil, making this joint stamp a fitting tribute to the friendship between India and Israel.

Symbol of Friendship Through Philately

This India–Israel Holi–Purim Joint Stamp is more than a commemorative issue — it is a symbol of cultural harmony, goodwill, and shared heritage. For philatelists, it represents not just two festivals, but two nations united by history, values, and friendship.

The release of this stamp reflects how philately continues to tell stories that transcend borders — and this one celebrates an enduring partnership that looks firmly toward the future.