US Postal Service issues second Diwali Forever stamp after 10 years

WASHINGTON, US: The United States Postal Service (USPS) has issued its second Diwali Forever stamp, a decade after the first edition, with a print run of 2 crore copies to mark the upcoming Hindu festival of lights [2, 5]. The new stamp was dedicated on October 21 at the Embassy of India in Washington, D.C., celebrating the cultural heritage of Indian Americans.

The inaugural Diwali Forever Stamp was unveiled on November 18, 2016, during a ceremony attended by then-Ambassador Navtej Sarna and USPS Deputy Postmaster General Ronald Stroman. That initial release was the culmination of sustained efforts by the Indian community, the Embassy, and the US administration. A decade later, the 2026 edition continues this recognition, with the main day of the festival observed on November 8 this year.

The 2026 stamp features a vibrant rangoli, a traditional floor art form, set against a purple background. The artwork was created by Sangita Bhutada, a Houston-based artist with nearly 30 years of experience in the folk art, and photographed by Bijay Dixit. Bhutada spent eight to 10 days completing the 8-foot diameter design, utilising bright blue, orange, green, red, and white coloured sand and starch-based powder.

USPS revenue operations senior vice president Shibani Gambhir served as the dedicating official, noting that the postal service has commemorated global cultures since 1893. "Ours is truly a world culture, and our stamps allow us to weave together a tapestry that reflects the rich and multifaceted heritage of America," Gambhir said. The stamp, designed by Jennifer Arnold, will be sold in panes of 20 and holds the value of the current First-Class Mail one-ounce price.

The release of a second Diwali stamp after a 10-year gap underscores the growing demographic and cultural influence of the Indian-American community in the United States. By featuring a rangoli, the USPS is highlighting a specific, deeply rooted cultural practice rather than a generic festive symbol, reflecting a nuanced appreciation of the diaspora's traditions. Furthermore, the substantial print run of 2 crore copies suggests strong anticipated demand, ensuring wide availability for the diaspora.

As the festival approaches, the stamp will be available at Post Office locations nationwide and online through the USPS Postal Store. The issuance serves as a permanent philatelic tribute to Diwali, a festival that marks the triumph of good over evil and is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Sikhs across the US.