The Nepal Tibet PhilatelicsPhilatelic Cover Exhibition – 2023
By Rishi Tulsyan FRPSL
On 27 th March 2023, the Nepal Philatelic Society organized a three-day long Philatelic Cover Exhibition in Kathmandu. The Chief guest for the opening ceremony was Dr. Baikuntha Aryal who is the chairman of the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology Nepal. This exhibition was one of its kind since the establishment of the society in 1966 because it primarily showcased the First Day Cover (The First- day cancellation on a stamp with an envelope is called the First-day cover). The major focus of the exhibition was to spread awareness about philately as a hobby in schools and colleges. Hence the event also witnessed attendees from various schools and colleges.
The history of stamps in Nepal goes back to 1881 A.D. when the first set of stamps with denomination 1 Anna Ultramarine, 2 Anna Purple and 4 Anna Green was printed on European Wove paper. Initially, letters from Nepal were sent through British Residency (Indian Embassy). The event also made us realize how a tiny piece of paper travels the world acting as an ambassador for that country. With the invention of computers, mobiles, and internet services, messages are sent within seconds, hence people are forgetting the essence of postcards, and envelopes. But I’m glad that such events are organized where philatelists can display their collections and discuss their interests in various themes.
Philately is the hobby for any age group and it has been named as “King of Hobbies”. A total no. of 19 exhibits were displayed in the competitive class and 4 in Invitees class, The exhibition had Exhibitors displaying a wide array of themes such as flora and fauna, animals, birds, animals, Postal stationery, Buddha, Aerogrammes, Himalaya, and Revenues of Nepal. The exhibition opened our eyes to the amount of detailing and creativity that goes into each stamp and envelope, as each piece consists of a story, an event, or a personality. Students from various schools and colleges were seen discussing with the exhibitors, this acts as a foundation for budding philatelists to grow and have their exhibits.
Commemorative Cover Issued on the Occasion of Philatelic cover exhibition 2023
