India Mint Stamp

Lokith Philately

Permanent Pictorial cancellation of Tamilnadu

Permanent Pictorial Cancellation inaugural day covers

Date of issue: 09.10.2024

Pin code: 612901

Status: Active

PO Name: Gangaikondacholapuram

Description: GangaiKondaCholapuram Temple was built in the 11th century by Rajendra Chola, son of the great Rajaraja Chola. It is located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. He was given the title of 'Gangaikondanan' (bringer of the Ganges) when he brought Ganga water in a golden vessel during his conquests and sanctified the reservoir 'Ponneri or Chola Ganga'. The Temple is known for its splendid architecture. It is an excellent example of the skill of the sculptors of that period, which has no parallel anywhere else. This passage highlights the significance of Nandi, the sacred bull and vehicle of Lord Shiva, in Hinduism, particularly in a temple known for its remarkable architecture and symbolism. 

Nandi is revered as a symbol of joy, stability, and devotion, representing purity, justice, and the protection of religion. According to legend, Nandi was the son of Rishi Shilad, born through Lord Shiva's blessings. Nandi's devotion to Shiva earned him the honour of being Shiva's Security in charge and Vehicle. In this temple, a massive stone-carved Nandi sits 200 meters from the sanctum, where the largest Shivalinga in Tamil Nadu is housed, made of the rare Chandrakanta stone. A unique architectural feature allows sunlight to reflect from the Shivalinga onto Nandi every day, even illuminating the deity when the temple is dark. The intricate carvings of this UNESCO World Heritage site reflect the grandeur of the Chola style of temple architecture, further enriching its spiritual and cultural significance.

From Left - 1. Ms.Barathi, BPM Postal Dept, 2. Ms.Subathra, DS Postal Dept, 3. Balamurugan, PA Postal Dept, 4. Mr.Paramasivam SPM Postal Dept, 5. Mr.Gunasekar Vadivel, Philatelist from Chennai, 6. Mr.Velmurugan, SPM, Udayarpalayam Postal Dept, 7. Mr.Veerappan, SG Postal Dept. Photo taken by Keerthana SG Postal Dept.

The Postmaster General of the Tiruchirappalli Postal Region has released 2 special covers with Permanent Pictorial Cancellation (PPC) in the day 2 of the event of Kalanchiyam@79°E. We extend our gratitude to the dedicated staffs of the Gangaikondacholapuram post office and Trichy PB for their commitment to ensuring that the items bearing the inaugural PPC were dispatched across India. We also thank the staff of the Gangaikondacholapuram Post Office for their exceptional efforts in sending postal items to all the philatelists who sent self-addressed mail to the Gangaikondacholapuram Post Office for the PPC.

Gangaikondacholapuram Post office

Gangaikondacholapuram Postal Staffs