New Delhi: Odisha’s rich puppetry traditions have been featured in the Department of Posts’ new “Puppets of India” commemorative stamp series, released on Friday at the Indian Habitat Centre, New Delhi.
The stamps were formally released by Vandita Kaul, Secretary (Posts), in the presence of artists and cultural representatives.
Among the eight stamps, two highlight Odisha’s unique puppetry forms: Kathi Kundhei, the State’s traditional string puppet art celebrated for its intricate movements and folk storytelling, and Ravana Chhaya – the shadow puppet tradition that brings epics and moral tales to life through beautifully crafted silhouettes.
Besides Odisha, the commemorative issue also features other traditional puppetry forms from across the country, including Kathputli (Rajasthan), Yakshagana Sutrada Gombeyatta (Karnataka), Daanger Putul (West Bengal), Benir Putul (West Bengal), Pavakathakali (Kerala), and Tolu Bommalatta (Andhra Pradesh).
Each stamp captures the distinctive costume, structure, and performance style of the respective tradition, highlighting the artistic craftsmanship and cultural heritage embedded in India’s diverse puppetry practices.
The designs, including the First Day Cover, Miniature Sheet, Sheetlets, and Special Cancellation, were created by Sankha Samanta, with artistic references from Sangeet Natak Akademi, Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, Daricha Foundation, and Dadi Pudumjee, Founder of The Ishara Puppet Theatre Trust.
Priced at Rs500 for the set of eight stamps, these philatelic products are available at bureaus across India and online at www.epostoffice.gov.in
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