Now, have your face on postal stamps!

AHMEDABAD: Imagine the expression on the receivers when they see your photograph on the postal stamp, perfect to the T with perforated border and cancellation stamp. You can get them wondering how you joined the high and mighty of the country like Mahatma Gandhi and Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru who were immortalized on postal stamps.

My Stamp, a popular concept by India Post was introduced to the state by Gujarat Postal Circle. It was introduced at INDIPEX 2011, the 6th World Philatelic Exhibition at New Delhi in February. Citizens can now choose thematic postal stamp sheets and personalize them with their photograph or photographs of a local monument.

"My Stamp has been brought to the state to mark the Gujarat Philatelic Exhibition (Gujpex) 2011 which will be held at Akota in Vadodara from December 23 to 25. Citizens can order their stamp sheets before the event and can avail the stamps at the event or can book stamps at the event and can them later from the General Post Office (GPO). The sheet will have 12 stamps bearing the person's photograph or one of their choice," said Humera Ahmed, post master general, Gujarat.

She added that citizens have also been given a choice of Gujarat's landmarks that can be used as photographs. Some of the chosen monuments include Sabarmati Ashram, Jami Mosque at Champaner, Derasars at Shetrunjay hill and Somnath temple.

The stamp sheets also come in six themes - Panchtantra tales, Jungle lore, Taj Mahal, Flying Machines, Trains and Sun signs. The user would have to choose a theme and provide his or her photograph. After the order, the stamps will be printed at government press in Nashik and delivered at respective postal circles.

Mainak Kathiara, president of Gujarat Philatelists' Association, told TOI that it was a great opportunity for citizens to explore the wonderful world of postal stamps. "In the digital era, few people are using the postal department's services. However, such an initiative will connect the new generation to philately. Many of our members have already ordered their own postal stamps. After all, who doesn't want to feature on stamps?" he said.

Source : http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com