20 Dec : Thailand has reportedly launched postage stamps of Hindu gods. These reportedly include Ganesa, Brahma, Narayana, and Siva; priced at five Bahts each; and each numbering 700, 000. Complete package includes Souvenir Sheets (25 Bahts each) numbering 100, 000 and First Day Covers (30 Bahts each) numbering 16, 500. Produced by Thailand Post and printed in France, these multi-color stamps were designed by Veena Chantanatat.
First Day Cover shows picture of a decorated conch-shell. Special cancellation stamp depicted Om, the mystical syllable containing the universe.
Acclaimed Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, said that Thailand coming out with postage stamps of Hindu gods was a great honor for Hindus worldwide. Zed, who is president of Universal Society of Hinduism, urged other countries of the world also to produce stamps about symbols and concepts of Hinduism, oldest and third largest religion of the world with rich philosophical thought whose ultimate goal was moksha (liberation).
Headquartered in Bangkok, Thailand Post’s beginnings go as far back as 1880. It is organizing “25th Asian International Stamp Exhibition” in Bangkok from August 04-12 next.
Thailand is popularly called “golden land” and is known for its warmth and hospitality, white sandy beaches, and fertile rice fields. Buddhism is the major religion.
