TN/08/2024 Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary

Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary in Ariyalur district, Tamilnadu, is a wetland covering an area of 453.7 hectares. This bird sanctuary acts as a home for more than 500 species of flora and fauna. It is basically an irrigation tank that receives water from the Mettur dam. This sanctuary is one of the most important inland water bodies which acts as a feeding ground for migratory water birds in the state of Tamil Nadu. 

Wetlands are important buffer zones between permanently water locked and dry ecosystems. After the Ramsar convention on wetlands in the year 1971, the international community has become aware of the biodiversity in these areas as well as the need to conserve them. India became a signatory to the Ramsar convention in the year 1982. This Karaivetti bird sanctuary has been designated as a Ramsar site by the Ramsar convention on 31 - January - 2024. 

This Special Cover is issued on 02 - February - 2024, celebrated as World Wetlands Day to honour the newly included Ramsar site, Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary at Ariyalur district, to create awareness among all about the importance of preserving this delicate ecosystem and boost the conservation efforts.

Cover Identification Number  :  TN/08/2024

Issue Place                                     :  Karaiyavetti 621 715

Issue Price                                     :  Rs. 50 excluding Stamp Charges

Quantity Issued                            :  600 (Each Cover is numbered)

Cover also has a QR Code on the back side which provides details about Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary.

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TN/07/2024 Epic Paintings of Maniam - 6

Born in 1924, Maniam aka. T. U. Subramaniam, was a pivotal figure in the Tamil artistic landscape. His contribution to Kalki magazine and collaboration with writer Kalki Krishnamoorthy for novels like "Sivakamiyin Sabatham” and “Ponniyin Selvan” speaks volumes about his talent. In the birth centenary year Maniam, a set of special carries featuring his iconic illustrations for the novel “Ponniyan Selvan” are issued. 

This special cover depicts the image of Arulmozhi giving up the throne and placing the crown on Madhurandhagan (Senthan Amuthan, Uttama Chozhan). This shows the magnanimous and far sightedness of Arulmozhi who became the future ruler of Chozha Empire, named as Raja Raja Chozha I. This bares the cancellation of Thanjavur Head Post office – 613 001 as the event occurred in Thanjavur which was the capital of erstwhile Chozha Empire.

The image at the back portion of this special cover contains the ceremonial procession of the newly crowned King Madhurandhagan. The elephant mahoth is Arulmozhi Varman who gave up his throne for Madhurandhagan. Though in black and white, the image shows the pomp and splendour associated with the coronation in the Chozha Empire.

This image also shows the previous King Sundara Chozhan blessing the newly crowned King Madhurandhagan. This also shows Kundavai, Vanathi and Poonguzhali greeting their new king from the palace balcony.

Cover Identification Number  :  TN/07/2024

Issue Place                                     :  Thanjavur 613 001

Issue Price                                     :  Rs. 50 excluding Stamp Charges

Quantity Issued                            :  600 (Each Cover is numbered)

Cover also has a QR Code on the back side which provides details about Maniam and the Paintings depicted on the cover. Cancellation is the Permanent Pictorial Cancellation of Thanjavur Head Post Office depicting Brahadeeswara Temple built by Raja Raja Chola I (Arulmozhi Varman in the Novel)

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TN/06/2024 Epic Paintings of Maniam - 5

Born in 1924, Maniam aka. T. U. Subramaniam, was a pivotal figure in the Tamil artistic landscape. His contribution to Kalki magazine and collaboration with writer Kalki Krishnamoorthy for novels like "Sivakamiyin Sabatham” and “Ponniyin Selvan” speaks volumes about his talent. In the birth centenary year Maniam, a set of special carries featuring his iconic illustrations for the novel “Ponniyan Selvan” are issued. 

This special cover depicts Nandhini in deep discussion with her husband Periya Pazhuvettaiyar at his palace in Thanjavur. This image is super imposed with the image of Aditha Karikalan. The fate of Aditha Karikalan, the crown prince of Chozha Empire is intertwined with that of Nandhini throughout the epic Kalki's Ponniyin Selvan. 

We also get to see the ceremonial crown, sword etc., which is presented to the king of Chozha Empire during the coronation which at that point of time rightfully belonging to Aditha Karikalan. The cancellation depicted is of Thanjavur Head Post Office – 613 001.

The back portion shows Periya Pazhuvettaiyar and his entourage carrying Pazhuvur Ilayarani Nandhini. 

Cover Identification Number  :  TN/06/2024

Issue Place                                     :  Thanjavur 613 001

Issue Price                                     :  Rs. 50 excluding Stamp Charges

Quantity Issued                            :  600 (Each Cover is numbered)

Cover also has a QR Code on the back side which provides details about Maniam and the Paintings depicted on the cover. Cancellation is the Permanent Pictorial Cancellation of Thanjavur Head Post Office depicting Brahadeeswara Temple built by Raja Raja Chola I (Arulmozhi Varman in the Novel)

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TN/05/2024 Epic Paintings of Maniam - 4

Born in 1924, Maniam aka. T. U. Subramaniam, was a pivotal figure in the Tamil artistic landscape. His contribution to Kalki magazine and collaboration with writer Kalki Krishnamoorthy for novels like "Sivakamiyin Sabatham” and “Ponniyin Selvan” speaks volumes about his talent. In the birth centenary year Maniam, a set of special carries featuring his iconic illustrations for the novel “Ponniyan Selvan” are issued. 

This special cover depicts the image of the boat woman Poonguzhali against the backdrop of Kodiakkarai in present day Nagapattinam district. It also depicts the lighthouse in Kodiakkarai shores, the remains of which can be found to this date. The cancellation depicted is of Kodiakkarai Sub Post Office – 614 807.

The back portion of the cover depicts the image of the sword fight between Vandhiyathevan and Arulmozhi Varman happening in SriLanka. The boatwoman Poonguzhali with an awestruck expression on her face is also seen watching the fight between them.

Cover Identification Number  :  TN/05/2024

Issue Place                                     :  Kodiakkarai 614 807

Issue Price                                     :  Rs. 50 excluding Stamp Charges

Quantity Issued                            :  600 (Each Cover is numbered)

Cover also has a QR Code on the back side which provides details about Maniam and the Paintings depicted on the cover.

 

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TN/04/2024 Epic Paintings of Maniam - 3

Born in 1924, Maniam aka. T. U. Subramaniam, was a pivotal figure in the Tamil artistic landscape. His contribution to Kalki magazine and collaboration with writer Kalki Krishnamoorthy for novels like "Sivakamiyin Sabatham” and “Ponniyin Selvan” speaks volumes about his talent. In the birth centenary year Maniam, a set of special carries featuring his iconic illustrations for the novel “Ponniyan Selvan” are issued. 

This special cover depicts the image of Madhurandhakan being hailed as the next successor by all the local chieftains in the clandestine conspiracy hatched in Kadambur palace. This event acts as a turning point in the novel “Ponniyin Selvan”.

The cancellation depicted in the envelope is of Reddiyur Sub Post Office – 608 304 which serves the present day Kadambur in Cuddalore district.

The back portion of the special cover depicts the image of Vandhiyathevan meeting Pazhuvur Rani Nandhini for the first time as she is returning to her palace. 

Cover Identification Number  :  TN/04/2024

Issue Place                                     :  Reddiyur 608 304

Issue Price                                     :  Rs. 50 excluding Stamp Charges

Quantity Issued                            :  600 (Each Cover is numbered)

Cover also has a QR Code on the back side which provides details about Maniam and the Paintings depicted on the cover.

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TN/03/2024 Epic Paintings of Maniam - 2

Born in 1924, Maniam aka. T. U. Subramaniam, was a pivotal figure in the Tamil artistic landscape. His contribution to Kalki magazine and collaboration with writer Kalki Krishnamoorthy for novels like "Sivakamiyin Sabatham” and “Ponniyin Selvan” speaks volumes about his talent. In the birth centenary year Maniam, a set of special carries featuring his iconic illustrations for the novel “Ponniyan Selvan” are issued. 

The image in the front of special cover depicts the first meeting of the princess Kundavai and Vandhiyathevan. Princess Kundavai is an icon of women empowerment who successfully managed the Chozha Empire in the absence of her brothers who were away at wars and her ailing father. This image was the very first image drawn by late Shri Maniam for the epic Kalki's Ponniyin Selvan. 

The location depicted in the background is of then Pazhaiyarai, present day Patteeswaram. This location is served by Patteeswaram Sub Post Office – 612 703.

The image depicted in the back portion of the special cover shows the three female characters in the epic Kalki's Ponniyin Selvan - Vanathi, Kundavai and Poonguzhali along with Vandhiyathevan and Arulmozhivarman disguised as traders from east Asia. This event occurs just before the coronation ceremony. 

Cover Identification Number  :  TN/03/2024

Issue Place                                     :  Patteswaram 612 703

Issue Price                                     :  Rs. 50 excluding Stamp Charges

Quantity Issued                            :  600 (Each Cover is numbered)

Cover also has a QR Code on the back side which provides details about Maniam and the Paintings depicted on the cover.

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TN/02/2024 Epic Paintings of Maniam - 1

Born in 1924, Maniam aka. T. U. Subramaniam, was a pivotal figure in the Tamil artistic landscape. His contribution to Kalki magazine and collaboration with writer Kalki Krishnamoorthy for novels like "Sivakamiyin Sabatham” and “Ponniyin Selvan” speaks volumes about his talent. In the birth centenary year of Maniam, a set of special covers featuring his iconic illustrations for the novel “Ponniyan Selvan” are issued. 

This special cover carries the image of Vandhiyathevan’s grand entrance into the Chozha Empire coinciding with the vibrant Aadi Perukku celebrations happening on the banks of the majestic Veeranam Lake. 

Vandhiyathevan is awestruck when he sees the grand Vadavaaru River emptying itself into the vast Veeranam Lake. Vandhiyathevan is sitting on his horse viewing the entry of the majestic ships carrying Periya Vazhuvettaiyar and his troops. 

The back portion of this special cover bares the image of Vandhiyathevan conversing with Nandhini after his escape from the tumultuous sea storm along with Arulmozhi Varman. This special cover bares the cancellation of Kattumannarkoil Sub Post Office - 608 301 which serves the present day Veeranam Lake.

Cover Identification Number  :  TN/02/2024

Issue Place                                     :  Kattumannarkoil 608 301

Issue Price                                     :  Rs. 50 excluding Stamp Charges

Quantity Issued                            :  600 (Each Cover is numbered)

Cover also has a QR Code on the back side which provides details about Maniam and the Paintings depicted on the cover.

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TN/21/2023 Crab Plover

Crab Plover ( Dromas ardeola ) is a distinctive and captivating shorebird and known for its striking appearance, the Crab Plover is characterized by a black-and-white plumage, long slender legs, and a unique downward-curving bill. One noteworthy aspect of Crab Plover behaviour is its migratory patterns. Point Calimere, located on the south-eastern coast of India, is a crucial destination for these birds during their migration. The area provides a suitable habitat and an abundant supply of prey, making it an essential stopover point.

Cover Identification Number  :  TN/21/2023

Issue Place                                     :  Kodiakkarai 614 807

Issue Price                                     :  Rs. 20 excluding Stamp Charges

Quantity Issued                            :  600 (Each Cover is numbered)

Though the cover identification number is part of 2023 series, this cover was issued only in 2024. Cover also has a QR Code on the back side which provides details about Crab Plover.

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TN/20/2023 Eurasian Curlew

Eurasian Curlew ( Numenius arquata ) is a large wader bird known for its distinctive long, curved bill and intricate, mottled brown plumage. These birds are primarily migratory, and their movements are closely linked to the changing seasons and availability of food. One of the notable stopover sites for the Eurasian Curlew during its migration is Point Calimere, located on the south-eastern coast of India in Tamil Nadu.

Cover Identification Number  :  TN/20/2023

Issue Place                                     :  Kodiakkarai 614 807

Issue Price                                     :  Rs. 20 excluding Stamp Charges

Quantity Issued                            :  600 (Each Cover is numbered)

Though the cover identification number is part of 2023 series, this cover was issued only in 2024. Cover also has a QR Code on the back side which provides details about Eurasian Curlew.

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TN/19/2023 Marsh Sandpiper

Marsh Sandpiper ( Tringa stagnatilis ) is a medium-sized wading bird recognizable by its slender build, long bill, and distinctive white eyebrow stripe, the Marsh Sandpiper is known for its remarkable long-distance migrations. During these migrations, some individuals travel to wintering grounds, and one of the destinations along their route is Point Calimere, located on the southeastern coast of India in Tamil Nadu. 

Cover Identification Number  :  TN/19/2023

Issue Place                                     :  Kodiakkarai 614 807

Issue Price                                     :  Rs. 20 excluding Stamp Charges

Quantity Issued                            :  600 (Each Cover is numbered)

Though the cover identification number is part of 2023 series, this cover was issued only in 2024. Cover also has a QR Code on the back side which provides details about Marsh Sandpiper.

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TN/18/2023 Bar headed Goose

Bar headed Goose ( Anser indicus ) is a remarkable waterfowl species known for its high-altitude migrations, impressive endurance, and distinctive markings. Native to Central Asia, these geese breed in regions surrounding the Himalayas, Tibet, and Mongolia. During the winter, they undertake extensive migrations to warmer areas, and some of them make their way to Point Calimere, situated on the south-eastern coast of India in Tamil Nadu.

Cover Identification Number  :  TN/18/2023

Issue Place                                     :  Kodiakkarai 614 807

Issue Price                                     :  Rs. 20 excluding Stamp Charges

Quantity Issued                            :  600 (Each Cover is numbered)

Though the cover identification number is part of 2023 series, this cover was issued only in 2024. Cover also has a QR Code on the back side which provides details about Bar-headed Goose.

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TN/17/2023 Heuglin's Gull

Heuglin's Gull ( Larus heuglini ) also known as Siberian Gull is characterized by its plumage, which is generally pale gray or white with darker wingtips. They have a yellow bill with a red spot near the tip, and their legs are typically yellow. It is a migratory bird, and during the non-breeding season, it travels to various locations. Point Calimere, located on the south-eastern coast of India in Tamil Nadu, is one of the significant destinations for the winter migration of Heuglin's Gull.

Cover Identification Number  :  TN/17/2023

Issue Place                                     :  Kodiakkarai 614 807

Issue Price                                     :  Rs. 20 excluding Stamp Charges

Quantity Issued                            :  600 (Each Cover is numbered)

Though the cover identification number is part of 2023 series, this cover was issued only in 2024. Cover also has a QR Code on the back side which provides details about Heuglin's Gull.

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TN/16/2023 Greater Flamingo

Greater Flamingo ( Phoenicopterus roseus ) is an iconic wading bird known for its distinctive pink plumage, long neck, and unique bill. Their vibrant pink coloration is a result of pigments in the food they consume, such as carotenoids found in algae and crustaceans. One notable aspect of the Greater Flamingo's behavior is its migratory patterns. One such migration route leads them to Point Calimere, a prominent wildlife sanctuary and birdwatching destination on the south-eastern coast of India.

Cover Identification Number  :  TN/16/2023

Issue Place                                     :  Kodiakkarai 614 807

Issue Price                                     :  Rs. 20 excluding Stamp Charges

Quantity Issued                            :  600 (Each Cover is numbered)

Though the cover identification number is part of 2023 series, this cover was issued only in 2024. Cover also has a QR Code on the back side which provides details about Greater Flamingo.

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TN/15/2023 Post Office in 2047

As part of District Level Philatelic Exhibition, a drawing competition was organised in several schools of Cuddalore District on the topic “Post Office in 2047”. Miss. R.Rakshitha, Standard – VIII of John Dewey Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Panruti – 607106, daughter of Shri. M.U. Rajesh Kumar & Ms. R.Suganthi won the first prize in this competition. 

In her drawing the budding artist visualizes the technological advancement of service delivery in post offices of the future, using robots & self-service delivery channels for seamless delivery of citizen centric services by post offices in India. 

First Prize winners drawing was released as special cover during the exhibition on the inaugural day. Autograph of the student  Miss. R Rakshitha, the winner of the competition was obtained on this cover additionally at the venue during felicitation ceremony.

Cover Identification Number  :  TN/15/2023

Issue Place                                     :  Cuddalore 607 001

Issue Price                                     :  Rs. 20 excluding Stamp Charges

Back side of cover has QR code which provides details about the cover.

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TN/14/2023 PE@Ce 2k23 Exhibition

PE@Ce 2k23 stands for Philately Exhibition at Cuddalore 2023. It is a district level philatelic exhibition conducted at Town hall in Cuddalore between 11-12 October 2023. This cover is carried by a Drone from Cuddalore Post Office to the Extension counter Exhibition Venue which was opposite to the Post office. It was promptly delivered by the beat Post Woman on that day to the addresse. Cover also had a sample Shell with glittering letters PE@Ce - 2K23 on it. It also had the signature of Drone operator and the Post Women.

Cover Identification Number  :  TN/14/2023

Issue Place                                     :  Cuddalore 607 001

Issue Price                                     :  Rs. 50 excluding Stamp Charges

Quantity Issued                            :  1000 (Each Cover is numbered)

Back side of the cover has a QR code which provides details about the cover.

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TN/03/2023 Centenary of Holy Cross College (Autonomous) Tiruchirappalli

Holy Cross College (Autonomous), Tiruchirappalli is one of the highly reputed arts and science college established in the year 1923. It is one of the oldest institutions established for Women in South India and affiliated to Bharathidasan University. The college is administered by the Sisters of the Cross of Chavanod, Province of Tiruchirappalli.

Special Cover Release Date     :  29 March 2023

Cover Identification Number  :  TN/03/2023

Issue Place                                     :  Tiruchirappalli 620 002

Issue Price                                     :  Rs. 20 including Stamp and Cancellation

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TN/15/2022 Quasquicentennial Celebrations of Srirangam Boys Higher Secondary School

The School for Boys, Srirangam started in the year 1896 was upgraded to High School I 1905 and to Higher secondary school in the year 1978. It functioned as co-educational school from the year 1920 to 1947. The English Medium Education was introduced in the year 1962. Due to the determination of hard working teachers, this School carves out countless excellent students. This special cover is released to commemorate the 125th Anniversary of the school.

Special Cover Release Date     :  25 June 2022

Cover Identification Number  :  TN/15/2022

Issue Place                                     :  Srirangam 620 006

Issue Price                                     :  Rs. 25 including Stamp and Cancellation

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