Meeana Palanquin
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Means of Transport |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | March 25, 2017 |
| Denomination | Rs. 10 |
| Quantity | 3,000 |
| Perforation | 13 |
| Printer | India Security Press, Nashik |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Sh. Brahm Prakash |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 3128 Yvert et Tellier IN 2819 Stanley Gibbons IN 3282 |
| Themes | Transport |
Introduction
The Meeana Palanquin is one of the distinguished forms of traditional human-carried transportation used in India before the rise of modern vehicles. Known for its artistic design and dignified appearance, the Meeana Palanquin reflects the grace, culture and refined lifestyle of earlier times.
Design and Characteristics
The Meeana Palanquin was crafted with elegance and attention to detail, combining comfort with aesthetic appeal. Its key features included:
- A strong wooden frame, often decorated with intricate carvings
- A beautifully arched canopy providing shade and privacy
- Soft bedding and cushioned seating for a smooth and comfortable ride
- Long poles attached on both sides for the bearers to carry
The structure was generally more ornate compared to simpler palanquins, symbolising status and prestige.
Usage and Social Importance
The Meeana Palanquin served as a graceful and respectable form of transport for the elite and affluent. It was used primarily for:
- Short and ceremonial journeys
- Travel by nobles, aristocrats and prominent families
- Special occasions such as weddings and festivals
It ensured dignity, privacy and comfort to the rider while moving through towns and villages.
Cultural Significance
The Meeana Palanquin holds a special place in India’s social and cultural traditions. It signified:
- Honour and high social standing
- Hospitality and respect during ceremonial occasions
- The refined lifestyle of the aristocracy
Often portrayed in folk art, literature and heritage museums, it remains a symbol of India’s rich cultural past.
Transformation Over Time
With the arrival of modern means of transport such as bicycles, rickshaws and motor vehicles, the use of palanquins, including the Meeana, gradually diminished. Today, it is rarely used except during:
- Traditional wedding processions
- Folk and cultural performances
- Heritage exhibitions and tourism events
Its presence now evokes memories of tradition, elegance and timeless charm.
Conclusion
The Meeana Palanquin stands as a beautiful representation of India’s historic modes of travel. Renowned for its artistic design and dignified utility, it continues to live on as a treasured part of Indian cultural heritage. Although no longer in everyday use, its legacy remains preserved through customs, art and traditional ceremonies that celebrate the splendour of the past.