Philately Day Celebration – Release of “Sawantwadi Ganjifa Cards” Picture Postcards and Special Cancellation

Mumbai, 8th October 2025

As part of the ongoing National Postal Week 2025 celebrations (6th–10th October 2025), the Maharashtra Postal Circle Celebrated Philately Day today with a special function held at the Mumbai GPO Heritage Building (East Wing, Ground Floor) at 11:00 AM.

The event was presided over by Shri Amitabh Singh, Chief Postmaster General, Maharashtra Circle.

To mark the occasion, a Special Cancellation on Philately Day was released by the Chief Postmaster General, Maharashtra Circle.

This was followed by the release of a book titled “India Post Cards 1949–2025” authored by eminent philatelist Shri Pratisad Neurgaonkar. The book chronicles the evolution of Indian postcards over the decades and serves as a valuable reference for philatelists and collectors.

Thereafter, Ranisaheb Shubhadadevi Bhonsle from the Sawantwadi Royal Family enlightened the gathering about the history and cultural significance of Sawantwadi Ganjifa cards, an ancient Indian art form known for its intricate hand-painted designs and mythological themes.

Following this, a set of 10 Picture Postcards on “Sawantwadi Ganjifa Cards”, depicting beautiful images of the Dashavatara (Ten Incarnations of Lord Vishnu), was formally released by the Chief Postmaster General, Maharashtra Circle, accompanied by a Special Cancellation.

After the releases, Shri Amitabh Singh, CPMG Maharashtra Circle, addressed the gathering, highlighting the Department of Posts’ enduring commitment to preserving and promoting India’s rich artistic and cultural traditions through philatelic materials. He also emphasized that philately continues to play a vital role in connecting people, promoting heritage, and nurturing creativity among youth.

The function was graced by the Royal Family of Sawantwadi, represented by:

• Rajesaheb Khem Sawant Bhonsle

• Ranisaheb Shubhadadevi Bhonsle

• Yuvraj Lakham Sawant Bhonsle 

• Yuvrani Shraddha Lakham Sawant Bhonsle

Senior Postal officers who shared the dais included:

• Ms. Jayati Samaddar, General Manager (Fin), Maharashtra Circle,

• Shri Manoj Kumar, Director Postal Services (Mails & Business Development)

• Smt. Kaiya Arora, Director Postal Services (Mumbai Region)

• Ms. Simran Kaur, Director Postal Services (HeadQuarter)

• Smt Rekha Q.A. Rizvi, Director Mumbai GPO 

The event was also attended by other eminent guests from the Royal Family of Sawantwadi, noted philatelists, and members of the public, who appreciated the Department’s efforts to celebrate and revive traditional Indian art forms through philately.

About Ganjifa Cards:

Ganjifa (also spelled Ganjapa, Ganjappa, or Ganjipha) is a traditional Indian card game known for its rich history, artistic detail, and cultural symbolism. Originating in ancient India, these hand-painted circular cards often depict religious and mythological themes, especially the Dashavatara — the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu.

The art form flourished under royal patronage in regions such as Sawantwadi (Maharashtra), Odisha, and Mysore, each developing distinctive styles. Traditionally made of cloth, palm leaf, or handmade paper, Ganjifa cards are meticulously painted with natural dyes and lacquered finishes.

Today, Ganjifa is a rare and endangered folk art, with only a few artisans continuing the craft. Through this release, the Department of Posts seeks to raise awareness and support the revival of this valuable heritage.