- Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel releases customised postal stamp and special cover celebrating the iconic tribal festival of Chhotaudepur
- Initiative by India Post highlights Gujarat’s vibrant indigenous traditions and cultural heritage
- Krishna Kumar Yadav presents the first copy of the stamp to the Chief Minister at Gandhinagar residence
- Move expected to bring national and global attention to the colourful Kawant Ger Mela of the Rathwa tribal community
NE FEATURES BUREAU
GANDHINAGAR, MAR 6
In a significant recognition of Gujarat’s tribal cultural legacy, Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel released a customised stamp and special cover dedicated to the iconic Kawant Ger Mela at his residence in Gandhinagar on Thursday.
The first copy of the stamp and special cover was presented to the Chief Minister by Krishna Kumar Yadav, Postmaster General for the North Gujarat and South Gujarat Region of India Post. The initiative is aimed at giving national and international visibility to Gujarat’s vibrant tribal traditions and cultural heritage.
Also present on the occasion were Chhotaudepur Lok Sabha MP Jashubhai Rathwa, MLA Abhesinh Tadvi, Chhotaudepur Collector Gargi Jain, Senior Superintendent of Post Offices (Vadodara East Division) R. B. Thakor, along with representatives of the Rathwa tribal community.
Appreciating the initiative by the Department of Posts, Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel said the release of a customised stamp on Kawant Ger Mela is an important effort to preserve and promote Gujarat’s tribal culture, art and traditions for future generations.
“More than a celebration, Kawant Ger Mela is a living tradition that reflects harmony with nature, social unity, and the continuity of ancestral customs passed down through generations. It stands as a significant symbol of India’s indigenous cultural heritage and the enduring spirit of tribal life,” the Chief Minister said.
He further noted that postage stamps play an important role in preserving cultural heritage and inspiring awareness among younger generations. “Such initiatives help sustain tribal art forms, music and dance traditions while ensuring that future generations remain connected with this rich legacy,” he added.
The Chief Minister also emphasised that cultural initiatives like these strengthen Gujarat’s identity, promote social harmony and help safeguard the ancient traditions of tribal life and artistic expression.
Postmaster General Krishna Kumar Yadav said postage stamps serve as miniature ambassadors of the nation’s heritage. “Through stamps, the country’s culture, art, history, eminent personalities, major events and scientific achievements are showcased. They promote national pride while serving as an effective medium of communication,” he said.
He added that the stamp and special cover released on Kawant Ger Mela would help bring national and global recognition to the cultural significance of the tribal festival and highlight the rich heritage of Gujarat’s tribal communities.
Lok Sabha MP Jashubhai Rathwa described Kawant Ger Mela as one of Gujarat’s most vibrant tribal festivals, celebrated annually in Kawant town of Chhotaudepur district. “During the festival, tribal men and women gather in large numbers, creating a powerful visual expression of joy, devotion and community harmony. The Chief Minister has given the festival a new identity by releasing a stamp on it,” he said, while thanking the Department of Posts for the initiative.
Chhotaudepur Collector Gargi Jain said the festival, observed soon after the festival of Holi, is deeply rooted in the traditions and beliefs of the Rathwa Adivasi community. The event is marked by rhythmic drumbeats, energetic Ger dance performances, traditional musical instruments, colourful indigenous attire and intricate body art.
She added that the postal stamp and special cover released by the Department of Posts, following the initiative taken by the district administration under the leadership of the Chief Minister, have added further prestige to the festival and strengthened efforts to promote tribal heritage.
