Aryabhata satellite : A precursor to Mangalyaan

Aryabhata was the first Indian Space Satellite, designed by ISRO and launched from USSR through Cosmos 3 vehicle.  This satellite was named after the famous Indian Mathematician and Astronomer of the 5th Century, Aryabhata. Even though it was not very successful it paved the way for today's success of Mangalyaan. Like many other satellites, the Aryabhata satellite has a compact design. 

The below stamp was issued on 19th April 1975 by India post to commemorate the successful launching of the satellite.

Permanent Pictorial cancellation : Mudumalai

I recently visited the Mudumalai Tiger reserve, a beautiful place to roam around especially for nature lovers like me.  But unfortunately, we could spot nothing more than a few spotted deers, bisons, mongoose and a handful of langurs, peacocks and peahens.  Though being the home of a variety of animals especially tigers ( Mudumalai Tiger Reserve) because of we humans they have been much disturbed. For example, the honking of cars, pollution and people's attitude towards these poor creatures have made these creatures insecure depriving them the comfort of their habitat. I have always wanted to become an environmental engineer to make a little difference in these matters. I also encourage each one of you to help towards preserving nature.

Now coming to the philatelic aspect of the topic, Mudumalai is a reserve located in the Nilgiris in between the boundaries of Kerala and Karnataka. It is at an elevation of about 1000 m and extends over an area of 323 sq. kms. Mudumalai B.O. had introduced a permanent pictorial cancellation of the Indian bison or Gaur on 05.04.1975.  Gaurs, spotted deers, elephants are few among the most common species found here.

Republic Day of India

This year (2015),  India is celebrating her 66th Republic day. And not just that, this year, US President Obama is to attend as a Chief Guest.

 Below is the stamp depicting Indian Parliament issued by India Post  in the year 1975 to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Republic.

Happy Republic Day!!

Michelangelo: Paintings

India Post has issued a stamp on Michelangelo's picture which is decorating the altar wall of the Sistine Chapel in Rome.  It was issued in 28th June 1975 and it is the second Se-tenant stamp from India Post.

We all know that Michelangelo di Lodovico Bonarroti Simone, is an Italian artist. But he is also a famous sculptor, architect, poet and engineer.  He was born  on 6th March 1475 and died on 18th February 1564.  "Pieta and David" stands as a testimony to his sculpture talent which he carved at the age of 29.

The western end of the St. Peter's Basilica shows his architectural and engineering skills.  During his lifetime, two biographies were published.  No wonder people called him Divino means "the divine one".

The above stamp depicts the creation of Adam at Sistine Chapel.