Monkey in Tree and Crocodile – The Clever Escape
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Tales from the Panchatantra |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | October 17, 2001 |
| Denomination | Rs. 4 |
| Quantity | 3000000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 |
| Printer | Madras Security Printers |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1862 Stamp Number IN 1920a Yvert et Tellier IN 1626 Stanley Gibbons IN 2027 |
| Themes | Animals (Fauna) | Crocodiles | Fairy Tales | Mammals | Monkeys | Reptiles | |
Commemorative Stamp: “Monkey in Tree and Crocodile”
Table of Contents
Design Elements:
- Main Illustration: The stamp features a vibrant depiction of the moment when the clever monkey escapes to the tree after outsmarting the crocodile. The monkey is seen perched high in a tree, looking down at the riverbank with a victorious expression. Below, the crocodile gazes up from the water, its face showing confusion and frustration.
- Background Details: The lush green foliage of the tree frames the upper part of the stamp, while the calm blue waters of the river and surrounding jungle create a serene yet dramatic backdrop.
- Natural Elements: The stamp highlights the contrast between the safety of the tree for the monkey and the dangerous waters where the crocodile resides. Birds and small forest creatures may be subtly included in the background to add life to the scene.
Cultural and Historical Significance:
- Timeless Fable: This stamp is based on one of the best-known Panchatantra stories, which teaches the moral lesson of wit triumphing over deception. The monkey’s escape from the crocodile is a metaphor for using intelligence in challenging situations.
- Indian Storytelling Tradition: As part of the Panchatantra, this story has been a fundamental part of Indian cultural heritage for centuries. It emphasizes the values of quick thinking and clever problem-solving.
Usage:
- Philatelic Collectors: This stamp will appeal to collectors who focus on themes of Indian folklore, literature, and educational storytelling.
- Educational Materials: The stamp can be featured in schools and educational institutions to teach children the values found in the Panchatantra. It can also be a visual aid in storytelling sessions.
Importance of the Commemorative Stamp:
- Preserving Folklore: This stamp plays a role in keeping traditional stories like the Panchatantra alive in contemporary culture. It serves as a reminder of India’s rich storytelling heritage.
- Promoting Moral Education: By showcasing a story with a valuable moral lesson, the stamp highlights the importance of wit, presence of mind, and non-violence.
Example of the Stamp Design:
- Vivid Colors and Illustrations: The monkey is seen with a wide grin, safe among the tree branches, while the crocodile is partially submerged in water, looking up with disappointment. The vibrant green of the forest and the clear blue of the river create a dynamic contrast that draws attention to the characters.
Significance:
- Moral Lesson: The story of the monkey and the crocodile teaches that quick thinking and intelligence can help navigate tricky situations, a lesson relevant across generations.