Islamabad (GNP): Pakistan Post has launched a set of three commemorative postage stamps alongside a specially designed souvenir sheet, paying tribute to Blue Pottery, one of Pakistan’s most celebrated traditional handicrafts, in observance of World Handicrafts Day.
The initiative serves as both a spotlight on the country’s deep artistic heritage and a heartfelt acknowledgment of the generations of skilled artisans who have devoted themselves to keeping this centuries-old craft alive and thriving.
The launch ceremony was jointly chaired by Secretary Ministry of Communications Ali Sher Mehsud and former Federal Secretary Captain (Retd) Usman Ali Isani, with senior government officials and Pakistan Post representatives also in attendance.
Celebrating a Living Artistic Tradition
The commemorative collection honors the storied tradition of Blue Pottery — a distinctive craft immediately recognizable for its vivid blue tones, elaborate floral patterns, and exceptional quality of execution. Deeply rooted in the historic city of Multan, Blue Pottery carries a cultural legacy stretching back centuries and continues to stand as an enduring emblem of Pakistan’s artistic identity and craftsmanship.
Secretary Ministry of Communications Ali Sher Mehsud spoke to the broader significance of protecting and promoting Pakistan’s traditional arts and cultural heritage. He applauded Pakistan Post for its consistent role in bringing the nation’s history, creativity, and cultural richness to public attention through commemorative stamps and philatelic projects.
Former Federal Secretary Usman Ali Isani echoed the sentiment, commending Pakistan Post for giving formal recognition to the contributions of artists and craftspeople through the special series. He emphasized that handicrafts are living repositories of a nation’s creativity, history, and identity, and called for sustained efforts to safeguard these traditions for generations yet to come.
Director General of Pakistan Post, Squadron Leader Maqsood Ahmed, described the commemorative release as a tangible expression of the organization’s dedication to championing Pakistan’s diverse cultural legacy. He paid personal tribute to the craftsmen whose perseverance and mastery have ensured that the tradition of Blue Pottery endures through the ages.
Post Design and Philatelic Details
The commemorative set comprises three stamps and a souvenir sheet, each conceived to capture the elegance and artistic grandeur inherent in Blue Pottery. The stamps were crafted by Abu Ubaidah Ayaz, Pakistan’s youngest stamp designer, whose work skillfully weaves traditional motifs with a contemporary sensibility — offering a fresh entry point into this ancient craft for wider audiences.
Complementing the stamps and souvenir sheet, Pakistan Post has also produced a special First Day Cover, an informational philatelic booklet, and commemorative cancellation stamps to mark the occasion.
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Speakers at the ceremony underlined that the philatelic release carries a dual purpose, honoring Pakistan’s master artisans while simultaneously raising public awareness about the importance of preserving traditional arts. The initiative, they noted, is expected to strengthen the profile of Pakistan’s cultural heritage both at home and on the international stage.
The full range of commemorative stamps, souvenir sheets, and associated philatelic materials is now accessible at selected post offices and philatelic bureaus across the country.
The ceremony concluded on a note of collective resolve — a shared commitment to ensuring that Pakistan’s treasured artistic traditions are carried forward through philately, public engagement, and active cultural stewardship for future generations to inherit and celebrate.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
