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VANCOUVER – Today, Canada Post issued a new commemorative stamp to herald the arrival of Diwali – one of the largest and most widely celebrated festivals in India. Observed by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, Sikhs and others around the world, the five-day celebration falls on November 4 this year.

About the festival

A time to reflect, overcome negativity, and spread light and love, Diwali is associated with a number of traditions, many of them focused on the triumph of good over evil. Small clay oil lamps called diyas are often lit in rows in homes and temples or set adrift on rivers, fireworks illuminate the sky, and celebrants exchange gifts and donate to those in need.

Rangolis are also an important part of the festival. Drawn on floors in entranceways, living rooms and courtyards using flower petals, coloured sand and other materials, these intricate patterns are intended to invite Lakshmi, the goddess of good fortune, into celebrants’ homes.

About the stamp issue

Designer Seung Jai Paek layered the Rangoli pattern featured on this stamp with meaning. A lotus flower, symbolic of new beginnings, forms both the outline and inset; a ring of heart-shaped diyas expresses love and gratitude; and the Indian spice box (called a masala dabba) in the centre of the design alludes to the food shared during Diwali. Printed by Lowe-Martin, the stamp issue includes a booklet of 10 Permanent™ domestic rate stamps and an Official First Day Cover.

The Diwali stamps and collectibles are available at canadapost.ca and post offices across Canada starting today.

For images and more information on the stamp and other products, please refer to the following links:

• High-resolution images (click here)
• Details magazine (click here and this external folder)
• Social media platforms – Facebook, Instagram and Twitter

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For more information:

Media Relations

613-734-8888

media@canadapost.ca