Canada Post has released a new stamp to commemorate Diwali, a major multi-day festival celebrated by millions around the world, including Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains.
Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. The 2024 stamp design focuses on Lakshmi Puja, an important ritual for many during the celebration, often observed on the second or third day of the festival. Diwali, which spans multiple days, begins on Nov. 1 this year, coinciding with the arrival of the new moon.
“Diwali is a significant celebration for many communities in Canada and around the world,” Canada Post stated. “We are proud to honour this vibrant tradition with a stamp that highlights one of the festival’s most meaningful rituals – Lakshmi Puja.”
The stamp features imagery inspired by depictions of Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. It shows three of her hands: one showering coins, another holding a lotus flower, and the third holding a diya, a small clay lamp lit during the festival to invite Lakshmi into homes, bringing good fortune and prosperity.
The design was created by Rahul Bhogal of Nothing Design Studio and illustrated by Humble Raja. Canada Post explained that the intricate design aims to reflect the importance of light, wealth, and spiritual renewal central to Diwali celebrations.
The stamp, printed by Lowe-Martin, has a limited release of 360,000 Permanent™ stamps, with 60,000 booklets of six stamps and 4,000 Official First Day Covers. The official cancel site is Moncton, New Brunswick, home to a large Indian Canadian community. Stamps and related collectibles are available at Canada Post outlets and online at canadapost.ca.
Images below of the Booklet and OFDC: