India Mint Stamp

Lokith Philately

Permanent Pictorial cancellation of Gujarat

Permanent Pictorial Cancellation inaugural day covers

Date of issue: 21.09.2021

Pin code: 394270

Status: Active

PO Name: Hajira

Description: Hazira Lighthouse is 35 km from Surat city. In the 17th century, the British and Dutch took permission from Emperor Jahangir to build their colonies and trade on the outskirts of Surat. The British called this place Swali. Captain Thomas was the one who first won the Battle of Swali from Portugal and decided to protect this place from encounters with pirates and outsiders and decided, to build a lighthouse. Earlier it was known as Suvali Lighthouse. It was constructed from masts and wooden logs, forming a circular lighthouse tower 20 meters high, then known as Suvali Point, which was later destroyed by fire in 1836. Hajira’s original name was Dhau. The village had a grave of a British Officer named Mr Vox. The grave in Gujarati is called "Hajiro". The name became popular and the village became famous as Hajira. During the British period, it also served as a port for entry and departure from Surat to other places. Surat was a busy port till the 18th century. It had trade relations with most of the ports in the world. It was later rebuilt in 1856, making it one of the oldest lighthouses in India that was illuminated by lanterns. It was improved and upgraded from time to time. This lighthouse is also the place where the Indian Navy was born.Gujarat Postal Circle, Department of Posts has issued a PPC to Celebrate “Light House Day” on 21.09.2021.