Diwali Stamps
Forever 78¢ | Sheet Stamp Format

In 2016, the U.S. Postal Service® celebrates the joyous festival of Diwali, which is also known as Deepavali. One of the most important annual Hindu events, the holiday celebrates the triumph of good over evil. Spanning five days each autumn, it is considered by some to be the start of the new year.

The stamp features an image of a traditional diya against a background of glimmering gold and flower petals. “Diwali” in white type is featured underneath the diya. The words “FOREVER” and “USA” appear in white type across the bottom.

Diwali is a shortened version of the Sanskrit word Deepavali, which roughly translates as “a necklace of lights.” During Diwali, flickering oil-wick lamps called diyas dot the homes of observers around the world.

Diwali is an important festival in several religions. Buddhists honor ancient Indian Emperor Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism. Jains commemorate the teacher Mahavira's attainment of liberation from the cycle of life and death. Sikhs celebrate the freeing of guru Hargobind from captivity.

The Diwali stamp is being issued as a Forever® stamp. This Forever stamp will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail® one-ounce price.

Stamp Issuance:
October 5, 2016
New York, NY 10199

Made in the USA