Cancelled stamp issue "Poles in India 1942–1948" 

Catalogue number: 5537 
Issue date: 22-10-2026 

The philatelic issue “Poles in India 1942–1948” commemorates an extraordinary chapter in the shared history of Poland and India and recalls the fate of thousands of Polish refugees who found shelter in India during the Second World War. After experiencing war, deportation and forced displacement, many Polish citizens, including numerous families, children and scouts, found safety, kindness and support on Indian soil. Thanks to the assistance provided by Indian authorities and local communities, Polish refugees were able to rebuild their daily lives, continue education, maintain social organizations and scouting activities, and preserve their ties with their homeland.

The issue is a tribute to the help that was offered and a reminder of the unique friendship that developed between the Polish and Indian peoples during a difficult period of history.

The philatelic designs were prepared in consultation with and approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland.

The stamp features a symbolic composition referring to the history of Polish refugees in India between 1942 and 1948 and to the friendship between Poland and India. The central motif presents two figures wearing traditional folk costumes: a figure inspired by Polish folk culture, a figure inspired by Indian cultural traditions. Their shared dance symbolizes cultural dialogue, mutual respect and the bond between two nations connected through common historical experiences. On the left side of the design appears the Scout Fleur-de-Lis, commemorating the presence of Polish scouts among refugees living in India. On the right side is a lotus flower, one of the most important symbols of Indian culture, associated with purity, spirituality and renewal.

The sheet consists of 20 postage stamps arranged in a 5 × 4 layout. The repeated motif creates a colorful visual narrative about the meeting of two cultures and the values of friendship, solidarity and humanitarian assistance.

The background of each stamp incorporates two important architectural symbols:

🏰 Wawel Royal Castle in Kraków - one of the most important symbols of Polish history, statehood and national heritage. Its presence recalls the homeland to which Polish refugees remained deeply attached despite years spent abroad.

🕌 Red Fort in New Delhi - one of the most recognizable monuments of India and an important symbol of the country's history and culture. Its inclusion highlights India's role as a place of refuge and assistance for Polish citizens during the Second World War.

Color plays an important role in the design. The left side is dominated by shades of red and white referring to the national colors of Poland and symbolizing remembrance of the homeland. The right side incorporates: orange, green, gold, colors associated with Indian culture, traditions and artistic heritage. Above the entire composition rises a radiant sun whose rays illuminate both sides of the design. This motif symbolizes: hope, safety, solidarity, friendship between nations, humanitarian support extended to the Polish people.

The First Day Cover features a historical photograph showing Polish refugees living in India between 1942 and 1948. In the foreground are young girls dressed in traditional Polish folk costumes, while members of the local Indian community can be seen in the background. The photograph comes from the collections of the KARTA Center Foundation and provides a valuable visual testimony to everyday life within the Polish refugee community in India.