‘Binamrata’ Letter Writing Project Celebrates Gratitude and Revival of Personal Letters

By A Staff Reporter

KOLKATA, AUGUST 6, 2025 — The 'Binamrata' Letter Writing Project, a collaborative initiative by the Philatelic Congress of India and Rotary International, with the support of the Department of Posts, West Bengal Circle, concluded on a heartfelt note with an award ceremony at Rotary Sadan in Kolkata.

More than 5,000 students from 63 schools participated in the competition, writing letters to their parents or teachers, expressing gratitude and affection — a rare gesture in today's fast-paced digital age. The initiative aims to rekindle the lost art of handwritten letters, which once served as the primary means of emotional expression and communication.

The event also highlights the continued efforts of the Department of Posts in promoting letter writing through regular competitions like Dhai Akhar and the UPU International Letter Writing Contest.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ashok Kumar, Chief Postmaster General of West Bengal Circle, shared personal anecdotes from his college days when letter writing was a cherished tradition. He recalled how writing to siblings during festivals like Raksha Bandhan or to friends in different fields was a routine part of student life. He reminisced about how personal letters were thoughtfully crafted, sent through inland letters, and sealed with care.

He emphasized that letter writing is not merely a form of communication but a deeply emotional act — much like Kalidasa’s Meghaduta, where a cloud was chosen as a messenger to convey the feelings of a separated lover. Mr. Kumar also drew parallels with early human expressions, such as cave engravings, noting that the desire to express and preserve memories has always been central to humanity.

The event concluded with the presentation of awards to the top ten student participants, with dignitaries from Rotary International and the Philatelic Congress of India in attendance.

The ceremony was a celebration not only of winners but also of a timeless tradition that connects hearts through handwritten words — a tradition worth preserving.