The 10th State-level Philately Exhibition, “BONGOPEX–2025”, organised by the Department of Posts, West Bengal Circle, was inaugurated on 14th November at Science City, Kolkata. The inaugural ceremony was graced by Governor, West Bengal, Dr. C. v. Ananda Bose, Shri Ashok Kumar, Chief Postmaster General (West Bengal, Sikkim, Andaman & Nicobar Islands), Padma Shri awardee and eminent danseuse Smt. Mamata Shankar, Dr. Sumantra Bose, Director of the Netaji Research Bureau, Shri Rajesh Bagri, Secretary General of Philatelic Congress of India, Shri Madhukar Deogaonkar, Acting President of the PCI, and several other distinguished guests.
Marking the return of the State-level exhibition after six years, BONGOPEX–2025 brings together philatelists, collectors, students and enthusiasts to celebrate the art, history and heritage preserved through postage stamps.
Held from November 14 to 17, 2024 the exhibition will feature rare collections, thematic displays, and curated releases that highlight Bengal’s intellectual and cultural contributions.
During the ceremony, the Governor announced the Padmavati Award, instituted in remembrance of his mother under the Governor’s Award of Excellence. The honour will be conferred upon three philatelists in recognition of their contribution to philately, and carries a citation, a trophy and cash recognition of ₹1,00,000, ₹50,000 and ₹25,000 respectively. Dr Bose noted, “Stamps are small things but they symbolise pride. Each stamp must be respected. Some stamps tell us about Gandhi, some about Nehru, some about the Himalayas… a stamp is a great teacher for everyone.”
In his address, Shri Ashok Kumar highlighted philately’s timeless relevance and its deep connection with public policy, education and research. He said that philately continues to inspire curiosity and preserve national heritage, adding, “Philately is a beloved hobby of generations that is connected to public policy, education and research. BONGOPEX brings this world alive. It allows philatelists to exchange ideas and young minds to explore.”
Shri Kumar also highlighted that India Post has grown far beyond its traditional services, emerging as a one-stop destination for citizen-centric and government services. “Post Office makes all this possible. Today it is emerging as a one-stop shop for government services. Along with traditional services, it also provides Aadhaar updation facilities. With an extensive network of over 1.65 lakh post offices, India Post has become a major driving force for the country,” he added.
The inaugural day featured the release of commemorative items celebrating Bengal’s heritage, including special covers on Netaji’s Durga Puja (Mandalay Prison, 1925) and Legendary Film Directors of Bengal, as well as a set of eight picture postcards based on Sukumar Ray’s Abol Tabol.
The exhibition also engaged schoolchildren through essay writing, and sit-and-draw activities, alongside musical and cultural presentations.