CANADA Post’s Diwali stamp design features an illustration by Seung Jai Paek of a Rangoli pattern, one of the most universally recognized symbols of Diwali. Rangolis are intricate geometric patterns drawn on the floors of homes – using a variety of colourful media – to welcome guests, ward off evil, and bring good fortune to those who live there.

This stamp was cancelled on October 19, several weeks ahead of Diwali, which falls this year on November 4.

The stamp heralds the arrival of one of the largest, most popular and widely celebrated festivals in India and one that is observed by Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains and other communities in Canada and around the world, announced Canada Post.

“Diwali is a five-day celebration that usually falls in October or November. Also called the Festival of Lights, its main theme is the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. During the celebrations, small clay oil lamps called diyas are often lit in rows in homes and temples or set adrift on rivers. There are also displays of fireworks representing gratitude for health, wealth, knowledge, peace and prosperity,” notes Canada Post

You can buy a booklet of 10 Permanent domestic rate stamps. “Permanent stamps are always worth the going postage rate – no top-up stamps required, ever!” points out Canada Post.