New Delhi: Puppets of India commemorative stamps mark a celebration of India’s vibrant puppetry heritage. On February 13, the Department of Posts unveiled the special issue at the Indian Habitat Centre.
Vandita Kaul, Secretary (Posts), formally released the set in the presence of artists and cultural representatives. She described postage stamps as “miniature ambassadors” of national heritage. According to her, the issue honours storytellers who preserved folklore and values across generations. Moreover, she said the stamps would inspire younger generations to cherish these traditions.
Puppets of India commemorative stamps showcase regional traditions
The Puppets of India commemorative stamps highlight eight distinct puppetry forms from across the country. These include Kathputli (Rajasthan), Yakshagana Sutrada Gombeyatta (Karnataka), Daanger Putul (West Bengal), Kathi Kundhei (Odisha), Benir Putul (West Bengal), Pavakathakali (Kerala), Ravanachhaya (Odisha) and Tolu Bommalatta (Andhra Pradesh).
Traditionally, Indian puppetry falls into four categories: string, glove, rod and shadow puppets. Over centuries, master puppeteers have narrated epics, folklore and social themes through music and visual storytelling. As a result, the art form continues to reflect India’s cultural diversity. Families sustain this tradition by passing skills and stories from one generation to the next.
Each stamp captures the distinctive costume and performance style of its region. In addition, the issue includes a First Day Cover, brochure, miniature sheet, sheetlets and special cancellation. Shri Sankha Samanta designed the philatelic material. Meanwhile, Sangeet Natak Akademi, Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, Daricha Foundation and Shri Dadi Pudumjee provided artistic references and text support.
The denomination stands at 500 paise per stamp. Philatelic Bureaus across the country offer the stamps. Additionally, collectors can purchase them through the official ePost Office portal
