Culture

Lighting Up the Mailbox: USPS Announces New 2026 Diwali Stamp

USPS unveils 2026 Diwali Forever stamp featuring a rangoli design by Houston artist Sangita Bhutada.

Culture desk
NRI HeraldJune 29, 2026
3 min read
Diwali stamp featuring a colorful mandala design, lit diyas, and marigolds.

The United States Postal Service has announced a new Forever stamp for 2026 celebrating Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. The stamp features a vibrant rangoli design created by Houston-based artist Sangita Bhutada.

The stamp will be issued as a Forever stamp, meaning it will always be valid for first-class postage regardless of future rate increases. The design incorporates traditional Diwali motifs including lamps and floral patterns.

Bhutada, an artist specializing in Indian folk art, created the original artwork that was adapted for the stamp. The USPS described the design as capturing the spirit of Diwali, which symbolizes the victory of light over darkness.

The stamp is part of the USPS's ongoing series honoring cultural celebrations. Additional details about the release date and first-day-of-issue ceremony will be announced later.

Culture desk · June 29, 2026
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