The first-ever non-competitive and theme-specific philatelic exhibition dedicated solely to Lord Buddha—BuddhaPEX-25—was successfully held from May 17 to 19, 2025, at the Government Bauddha Museum, Gorakhpur, in collaboration with the Philatelic Society of Uttar Pradesh.
🌟 Highlights of BuddhaPEX-25
Inauguration: The exhibition was inaugurated by Shri Gaurav Shrivastav (I.Po.S.), Postmaster General, Gorakhpur Region.
Guest of Honor: Padma Shri Dr. Ram Chet Chaudhary graced the event with inspiring words about Buddha’s enduring relevance.
Venue: Government Bauddha Museum, a symbolic location reflecting the spirit of Buddha’s teachings.
📬 What Made BuddhaPEX-25 Special?
🕊️ First-of-its-Kind Theme-Based Exhibition
BuddhaPEX-25 was India’s first non-competitive philatelic exhibition centered entirely on the life and teachings of Gautam Buddha. It offered a peaceful and intellectual space for stamp collectors, enthusiasts, and students.
✉️ First Postcrossing Meet-Up in Gorakhpur
A major highlight on Day 2 was Gorakhpur’s first-ever Postcrossing Meet-Up.
The event featured the release of a specially designed meetup postcard, created by Mr. Chirag Trivedi, a passionate philatelist from Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
💠 Impressive Collection of Exhibits
62 frames displayed.
Contributions from 29 exhibitors, both from India and abroad.
Display of four philatelic books exclusively on Gautam Buddha.
👧🏻 Engaging Activities for Children
BuddhaPEX was not just for collectors—it welcomed young minds through:
🌟 Philatelic Quizzes
🌟 Stamp-based Buddha Quiz
🌟 Stamp Collecting Workshops
🌟 Drawing on Postcard Contest
🌟 Postcard Writing Competition
🌟 Guided tours by philatelists
🏅 Winners were felicitated with prizes during the closing ceremony.
📚 Future Prospects: Cataloging the Event
During the exhibition, the Deputy Director of Government Bauddha Museum proposed publishing a detailed dossier cataloging the entire event. This suggestion received enthusiastic support and will preserve BuddhaPEX-25’s legacy.
🎉 Grand Closing Ceremony
The exhibition concluded on a high note, chaired by Dr. Vimal Kumar Modi, a renowned physician and director of Arogya Mandir, Gorakhpur.
All exhibitors received certificates and mementos.
A set of Buddha-themed postcards was unveiled and will be available for philatelists soon.
A special cover on BuddhaPEX is proposed to be released later.
🔎 Why BuddhaPEX Matters?
BuddhaPEX is not just a philatelic event—it’s a cultural tribute through stamps. It brings together history, spirituality, and art, while fostering educational engagement with children and youth.
Whether you’re a collector, student, or a history enthusiast, BuddhaPEX opens a new dimension in thematic philately.
📌 Stay Tuned
Follow updates on upcoming special covers, postcard releases, and the BuddhaPEX dossier. Be part of this growing community of Buddha-themed philately!
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