Coming to a computer near you on Oct. 10-18, Philavirtu is billed as the world’s largest – and India’s first – national virtual philatelic exhibition.
It’s organized by the International Collectors’ Society of Rare Items, Pune, under the patronage of the Philatelic Congress of India (PCI).
A 600-frame exhibition will include thematic exhibits on any theme plus other exhibits focusing solely on India and Indian states philately and postal history. There will be four classes, including a competitive class, championship class, invitee class and court of honour. The competitive exhibits will be judged based on Fédération Internationale de Philatélie (FIP) rules and regulations.
“Stamp collecting is a marvellous, all-consuming hobby,” said FIP President Bernie Beston, of Australia.
“But when a collector exhibits, he or she gains not only more knowledge but suddenly realizes that there are so many more philatelic items and information needed to tell the story of the exhibit. This is why, in the absence of physical exhibitions, virtual shows are so vitally important to our hobby. Philately is truly a brain sport. In these troubled times, such activity can only improve your health.”
EIGHT DAYS
The eight-day show will also feature a virtual lobby, interactive dealer stands, seven webinars (from Aug. 25-31), live auctions, youth activities, the release of a special show cover, cultural events and more.
“In general, the COVID-19 pandemic had forced almost all of the international/national exhibitions in 2020 to be either cancelled or postponed,” said Prakob Chirakiti, of Thailand, a Fellow of the Royal Philatelic Society London and a signatory of the Roll of Distinguished Philatelists.
“The social distancing and travel restrictions had made it more difficult for philatelists and visitors to gather at the physical philatelic exhibitions that we are familiar with. The virtual philatelic exhibition such as Philavirtu 2020 plays an important role in this COVID-19 pandemic period; it will give the exhibitors an opportunity to show their treasured exhibits, to learn from the jury how to improve their exhibits and for fellow philatelists and visitors to enjoy their marvellous exhibits conveniently.”
Open 24 hours a day and free to attend, the show is now accepting visitor registrations and exhibitor applications via philavirtu.com.