An employee from the Udupi postal division has brought international recognition to India by winning a prestigious award at a global stamp exhibition. Poornima Janardhan, a dedicated philatelist, was honored with the Vermeil Award at the International Friendship Philately Competition and Exhibition held in Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia.
A Divine Collection Wins Top Honors
Poornima Janardhan showcased her meticulously curated stamp collection titled 'Discovering the Divine: An Exploration of Hindu Deities'. Her exhibit, which beautifully wove together philately and cultural heritage, impressed the jury and scored an impressive 81 points, securing her the Vermeil Award. The exhibition took place at the State Museum in Denpasar from December 11 to 14 and saw participation from approximately 27 philatelists from across the globe.
Beyond the Competition: Sharing Knowledge
Poornima's role at the event extended beyond being a competitor. She also participated as a resource person in a seminar focusing on philately and culture. During the seminar, she eloquently spoke about the relevance of stamp collection as a hobby and its powerful integration with preserving and understanding cultural heritage. Her insights highlighted how small pieces of paper can tell grand stories of history and tradition.
Widespread Appreciation for Cultural Showcase
The stamp exhibit, centered on Hindu gods and goddesses, resonated deeply with both visitors and the expert jurors at the exhibition. It received widespread appreciation for its thematic depth, presentation, and the unique cultural narrative it presented through philately. This achievement underscores the global appeal of India's rich spiritual and artistic traditions when presented through a dedicated and scholarly lens.
Poornima Janardhan's success on an international platform like the Bali exhibition is a proud moment for the Udupi division, the Indian Department of Posts, and the country's vibrant community of philatelists. It proves that passion, when combined with cultural pride, can achieve excellence and recognition worldwide.
