Sri Lanka Army FDC

Sri Lanka FDC
Name: Sri Lanka Army - Diamond Jubilee
Date of Issue: 10 October 2009

Sri Lank Army, born on 10th October 1949 marks its sixty years of age (Diamond Jubilee) on 10th October 2009 with pride and dignity following the great victory recorded with the elimination of terrorism which prevailed over three decades. The Army, in retrospect has reached its unparalleled greatness through its unfailing determination, dedication, dignity and pride right throughout its sixty years of existence.

The Army founded in 1949 with a limited group of people is now composed of six Security Forces Headquarters, five Forward Maintenance Areas, fourteen Divisions, six Task Force Headquarters, sixty-four Brigades, seven Area Headquarters, two Sub Area Headquarters and twenty-three Regiments.

The Army goes into the annals of military history this year because of its unmatched and glorious victory over the scourge of ruthless LTTE terrorism that posed a threat to the country's unitary nature and territorial integrity and disrupted the peaceful co-existence of all ethnicities for over thirty years, though the peak of fighting against terrorism took place between the period 1999 - 2009.

Heroic soldiers of the Army at the expense of their own precious lives and limbs brought peace to the entire Sri Lanka and unified the Nation under one flag through "Victory through Sacrifice", Therefore the commemoration of the Army Day (October 10th) and its 60th Anniversary at this juncture inspires us greatly. The issue of a new stamp by the Department of posts at Army Headquarters to coincide with this golden landmark, signals the undeniable face that we have re-created a new milieu for our younger generation where they could live in peace and happiness.

Sri Lanka History FDC

Sri Lanka FDC
Name: Ancient Sri Lanka – Late Anuradhapura Era
Issue date: 16 September 2008

Anuradhapura, (அனுராதபுரம் in Tamil), is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, famous for its well-preserved ruins of ancient Lankan civilization.

The city, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies 205 km north of the current capital Colombo in Sri Lanka's North Central Province, on the banks of the historic Malvathu Oya.

Founded in the 4th century BC, it was the capital of the Anuradhapura Kingdom until the beginning of the 11th century AD. During this period it remained one of the most stable and durable centers of political power and urban life in South Asia. The ancient city, considered sacred to the Buddhist world, is today surrounded by monasteries covering an area of over sixteen square miles (40 km²). Anuradhapura is also significant in Hindu legend as the fabled capital of the Asura King Ravana in the Ramayana. More...

Denominations:
5.00: Ancient Sophisticated Technology and Technique: Middle age Gold Coin, its mould and gold ingot used for manufacturing gold coin
Ran Kahavanu is type of coin used in Ceylon from 8th century AD to the 11th century AD. Half of the Kahavanu (1/2) was identified as "Half Kahavanu" and (1/4) quarter of the Kahavanu was identified as "Deaka Alias Palaya" and 1/8 of the coin was identified as "Aka" Information gathered reveal that the "Aka" coin had been in use up to almost the 15th century. Doubts have been raised with regard to symbols and notes on the obverse and reverse of the coins. The date of issue and the name of the king are not indicated in any of the coins. The coins have been manufactured by pouring melted gold into a clay mould made in the form of two lids.

Several lumps of gold recovered at the Abhayagiriya excavations are identified as "Gold tablets" (Swarna Palaka Pinda).

The weight has been indicated in the coins. The recovery of twenty two gold coins along with five "Swarna Palaka Pinda" (Gold Tablets) makes one believe that these lumps had been used in the manufacture of gold coins.

10.00: Architecture: Medirigiriya, Vatadageya and its conjectural drawing
The Medirigiriya Viharaya has been a prominent Buddhist Sangarama in existence from the early Anuradhapura period. The most ancient source of information relating to Medirigiriya is the Mahavamsa indication that King Kanittatissa built a Simamalaka for the Mandalagiri Viharaya in 2nd century AD (167-186AD) mention is also made that in 7the century AD. During the reign of King Agrabodhi IV a person named Malayarasa had erected an attractive Watadage for the stupa which existed there. This Watadage had been renovated by several kings who reigned later. It is also revealed that the Mandalagiri Viharaya had been a significant Buddhist centre up to 13th century AD.

The most glorious architectural construction is this Vihara complex is considered to be the Vatadageya. The Watadegeya erected on an elevated circular dais, encircling the smaller stupas, gains prominence as an excellent architectural structure among all other Watadageyas in existence. This stamp depicts the remnants of this Watadage, and a creative design of the original nature of the Watadage, determine after an extensive study.

15.00: Sanitation, Living standard and Conservation of Environment: Urinal stone at Western Monasteries in Anuradhapura and cross section of Sanitary system
This is a urinal stone belonging to the western monastery 'Padhanagara' Complex reserved for Pansakulika monks. In this Padhanagara complex, the only art of carving is the urinal stone scholars are of the view that these carvings made only on the urinal stone reflects the view that all worldly possessions should be shunned or treated with contempt.

The Pit of the Urinal stone is formed by placing three large terra-cotta pots placed one on top of another. The urine is filtered through the fillings in the pots and ultimately drains on the soil as pure water. The priority placed in such ancient times on Health and Sanitation and the technology used can be considered as superb.

20.00: Jewellery: Bangle, Necklace with a Pendent, Anklet and Teerracotta beads Necklace
The jewellery recovered at Abhayagiriya is fabulous creations which portray the expertise in jewellery manufacturing. A necklace with a pendant, a bangle and foot ornaments are included. The fine and delicate carvings herein depicts the excellent creative ability of the sculptor. The necklace is made of gold thread.

The necklace adorned with clay heads shown in the background, was gathered from the Jetawana Vihara complex. All these belong to the post Anuradhapura period.

30.00: Art & Sculpture: Bodhisatva Vajrapani and Avalokithesvara at Buduruwagala and Sculpture of Royal Family at Isurumuniya
The Buduruvagala Bodhisatva Statue carved on a mountain, remains an exemplary carving among the Mahayana statues in Sri Lanka. The present remnants provide evidence that the statue was plastered and stained later. Depicted here are the Avalokatheshwara Maithriya and Wajrapani Bodhisatva triad in existence among other statues. The statues are considered to be belonging to the 8th-9th centuries AD.

The carved tabled identified as the 'Royal Family' at present exhibited at the Isurumuniya Vihara Museum, originally said to have been in the Ranmasu Uyana is a superb piece of carving in the Island. These carvings depicting the Gupta style of sculpture are extremely charming. Professor Senarath Paranavithana is of opinion that the carving portrays King Dutugemunu with his queen in conversation with Saliya - Asokamala in the palace of prince Saliya.

Comment: Jesus! Too many strange words in this article, so it's hard to understand it clearly. How about your feeling?

Ancient Sri Lanka Series FDCs:
2nd Series: Proto - Historic Era & Early Anuradhapura Era
3rd Series: Late Anuradhapura Era

Sri Lanka Olympic Games FDC

Sri Lanka FDC
Name: Beijing 2008 Olympic Games
Date of Issue: 23 July 2008

The 29th Olympic Games is to be held from 8th to 24th August at the Beijing, China. There will be 302 events for 28 games. It is expected to be participated approximately 10,500 sports people for these events from 203 countries.

"One World One Dream" is the theme of the Olympic Games this year. "Dancing Beijing Mark" is its official logo. Chinese believe that this logo represents them and their heritage.

Sri Lanka participated in the Olympic Games for the first time in 1948. It was held at London. Mr. Dankon White was the Silver Medalist fro 400m. hurdles there. Ms. Susanthika Jayasinghe was the Olympic Bronze Medalist fro 200m. Women's final at Sydney in 2000.

Ms. Susanthika Jayasinghe (200m. Women's short distance race), Ms. Nadeeka Lakmali (Javelin), Mr. Anuraddha Ratnayake (Boxing), Ms. Mayumi Raheem, Mr. Condred Lee (Swimming), Mr. E. M. Senanayaka (Shooting), Ms. thilini Jayasinghe (Badminton) and Mr. Chinthana Widanage (Weightlifting) will be participated in Olympic Games this time.

Denominations:
5.00: Shooting (Pistol)
15.00: Javelin (Women)
40.00: Boxing
45.00: Running (Women)

Comment: My Sri Lanka friend told me that this set was issued after a ceremony in the evening on issue day. In this case, nobody could send this FDC on issue day, so you will see the local postmark on the back side is 24.07.2008.

Estonia 2008 Beijing Olympic Games Gold Medalist Autographed FDC
Estonia 2008 Beijing Olympic Games Silver Medalists Autographed Postal Stationery

2008 Beijing Olympic Games FDCs:
Algeria, Belarus, Canada, Czech Republic, Estonia, Estonia Sheetlet, Great Britain, Hong Kong, Hong Kong M/S, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Portugal M/S, Romania, Russia, Singapore, Slovakia, Sri Lanka, Turkey, Ukraine.

2008 Beijing Paralympic Games FDCs:
Czech Republic, Slovakia.

Sri Lanka History FDC

Sri Lanka FDC
Name: Ancient Sri Lanka – Proto - Historic Era & Early Anuradhapura Era
Date of Issue: 30 April 2008

Denominations:
5.00: Proto - Historic Era: Megalithic Cist Burial & Beads
Necklace found at Ibbankatuwa (600-400 B.C.)

10.00: Early Anuradhapura Era: Agriculture & Irrigation
Abhaya (Basawakkulama) Weva (3rd Century B.C.)

12.00: Early Anuradhapura Era: Language & Literature
Vallipuram Gold Plate (1st Century A.D.)

15.00: Early Anuradhapura Era: Metal Technology
Alakolaveva Iron Furnace (1st and 2nd Century A.D.)

30.00: Early Anuradhapura Era: Trade & Money
Gajalakshmi Coin (1st Century B.C. - 4th Century A.D.) & Punch Mark Coin (3rd Century B.C. - 4th Century A.D.)

40.00: Early Anuradhapura Era: Art & Craft
Sigiri Paintings (5th Century A.D.)

Comment: This is a stamp series named “Ancient Sri Lank”. According to its series number, it will totally issue 38 pieces stamps. These are 5/38 to 10/38.

Ancient Sri Lanka Series FDCs:
2nd Series: Proto - Historic Era & Early Anuradhapura Era
3rd Series: Late Anuradhapura Era

Sri Lanka Youth Meeting FDC

Sri Lanka FDC
Name: 7th Commonwealth Youth Ministers Meeting - 2008
Issue date: 26 April 2008

The 7th Commonwealth Youth Ministers Meeting (CYMM) hosted by the Government of Sri Lanka will be held from 27th to 30th April 2008 in Colombo. The Theme of the meeting is "Youth and Peace Building". 54 Delegations are expected to attend the CYMM representing 51 full members, 2 self Governing Territories plus the Secretary General, Deputy Secretary General and Conference Secretary of the Commonwealth Secretariat. Most of the Delegations will be led by the Ministers-in charge of Youth Affairs or the Deputy Ministers or Permanent Secretaries. Anticipated attendance of the meeting is 250-300 including the Sri Lanka Delegation, the Commonwealth Secretariat team and possible observer organizations.

The Meeting is expected to:

• Enable the Ministers to debate on emerging issues related to youth development in particular the linkages between peace building, social development and transformation.

• Provide a policy direction for the Commonwealth Youth Programme and Youth Development over period from 2008-2012.

The Opening Ceremony of the meeting will be held at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall in the afternoon of 27th April 2008 under the distinguished patronage of His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa, the President and Hon. Rathnasiri Wickramanayake, the Prime Minister respectively of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. His Excellency Kamalesh Sharma, Commonwealth Secretary General will grace the occasion as the Guest of Honour. Plenary Sessions of the Meeting will be held at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel in Colombo from 28th to 30th April 2008.

This stamp depicts a young man and woman attired in the traditional dress depicting the culture, and youth and is framed in the Commonwealth Logo releasing a pigeon of peace.

Comment: Sri Lank Post is very strange, their post offices don't work at weekend, but they issued this set on 26th April (Saturday), and processed this FDC on 28th April (Monday).

Sri Lanka Anti-Corruption FDC

Sri Lanka FDC
Name: International Anti-Corruption Day
Issue date: 2007 December 10th

The evil phenomenon of corruption is found in all countries – big and small, rich and poor but it is in the developing world that its effects are most destructive. Corruption hurts the poor disproportionately by diverting funds intended for development, undermining a Government's ability to provide basic services, feeding inequality and injustice and discouraging foreign aid and investment. Corruption is a key element in economic under performance and a major obstacle to poverty alleviation and development.

We now have the United Nations Convention against corruption to address this scourge at the global level. This convention has been adopted on 9th December 2003. the adoption of this Convention sends a clear message that the international community is determined to prevent and control corruption. This convention is the first legally binding global instrument related to corruption. In order to raise awareness of corruption and of the role of convention in combating and preventing it, 9th December has been designated International Anti-Corruption Day.

Sri Lanka Children FDC

Sri Lanka FDC
Name: International Children's Broadcasting Day
Issue date: 2007 December 9th

International Children's Day of Broadcasting, celebrated on the second Sunday of every December, is a day when broadcasters around the world "Tune in to Kids". They air quality programming for and about children. But most of all, they allow children to be part of the programming process, to talk about their hopes and dreams and share information with their peers.

The Day is a joint initiative of UNICEF and the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. Every year, thousands of broadcasters in more than a hundred countries take part in the day, celebrating it in ways that are as unique and special as children themselves.

The Philatelic Bureau of the Department of Posts issued three postage stamps in the Denominations of Rs.5.00 x 3 depicted the race between the Hare and Tortoise. This is the first issue of a series of children stories. These stamps are issued to commemorate the International Children's Broadcasting Day.

All in the jungle knew that tortoises can't run. Therefore all those who live there laughed at the tortoise. Rabbit was the most popular runner. He was very proud of it.

On day rabbit wanted to show his talents to the entire jungle livers. So he invited the tortoise to have a race. Tortoise also agreed.

So these two got read to have a race accompanying there jungle friends. When the race was commenced rabbit ran as fast as lightening. When the tortoise stared to run rabbit was not there. Jungle livers laughed at tortoise for this. But tortoise didn't care it. It moved slowly. The rabbit who ran fast looked back but tortoise was out of sight.

"I can have a nap until he comes" rabbit thought so and slept under a tree.

Tortoise slowly walked along the track. He saw that the rabbit was sleeping under a tree. He silently moved and slowly reached the end. Rabbit woke up after a long sleep; looked here and there in a hurry; ran fast. When he reached the winning post tortoise was sitting there laughing.

When the rabbit knew that he was the loser, he felt ashamed. All were wondered by the tortoise's talent and courageous win.

Sri Lanka Animals FDC

Sri Lanka FDC
Name: Udawalawe National Park
Issue date: 2007 October 31st

Udawalawe National Park, which holds a unique place in the wild life conservation web in Sri Lanka, is situated in a dry and intermediate zone bounded by Moneragala District in Uva Province and Ratnapura District in the Sabaragamuwa Province. It is 30,821 hectares in extent and was declared a National Park on 30th June, 1972.

It is situated 165km, away from Colombo. The entrance to the park is situated near the 11th mile post on the Thimbolketiya and Thanamalwila Highway. Apart from the vast plain there are small mountains and hills rise above it occasionally. The Kaltota Mountain and Diyawinna Waterfall are in the North. Rocks like Bambaragala and REmenikotha and Uggala Mountain are in the West.

Design:
Rs. 5.00: Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)
The wild water buffalo is a large and powerful animal. The general colour of the body, in dry conditions is ash. When the skin is wet, the colour darkness to almost brownish-black. The male is larger than the female. A mature male is about 5 feet in height. It generally carries much longer and heavier horns. It mainly lives in the dry zone. They live in groups, the leadership of which remains with a mature male. The wild water buffalo is very dependent on the availability of water and spends much of its time wallowing in mud holes and shallow pools. The water buffalo is mainly a grazer and feeds in the morning and evening. The gestation period is about 300-340 days. It usually gives birth to one calf at a time. It’s life span is about 25 to 29 years.

Rs. 15.00: Sri Lankan Elephant (Elephas maximus)
Sri Lankan Elephants belong to the order Proboscidea, containing the largest of all living terrestrial mammals. The male is generally larger than the female. Adult male’s height is approximately nine feet, six inches. They are herbivores. They eat grasses, leaves, bark and fruit. They generally pay more serious attention to feeding in the early morning and afternoon. Midday is resting period. The period of gestation is 23 months. The life span is approximately 60 years. Today the number of wild elephants in Sri Lanka is around 4,500-5,000.

Rs. 40.00: The Ceylon Ruddy Mongoose (Herpestes smithii)
The Ceylon Ruddy Mongoose belongs to the order Carnivora and Family Viverridae. It is normally solitary or as a couple. They are ash brown in colour. Always it may be recognized, even at a distance, by its characteristic habit of carrying its tail with the black tip curved upwards. The normal food of this mongoose is birds, small mammals and reptiles. Therefore it is a Carnivore. The female probably gives birth to 2-3 young.

Rs. 45.00: Grey Langur (Semnopithecus entellus)
The Grey Langur belongs to the order Primates and class Mammalia. They are large and fairly terrestrial. They are grey, with a black face. They are mostly found in the dry zone. They feed on leaves, fruit, seeds and flowers and live in medium to large groups, sleeping on branches during night; usually with one dominant male. The female gives birth to one offspring.