Coimbatore Philatelic Club holds Stamp Exhibition for school kids at National Model
In an era dominated by rapid digital transformation and the rise of artificial intelligence, introducing children to timeless, hands-on hobbies like stamp and coin collection (philately and numismatics) offers a uniquely enriching experience.
Through philately and coin collecting, young minds learn to trace the history behind a currency and decode the stories, culture, and context embedded within a single stamp. Engaging with these physical artifacts encourages children to gather knowledge, appreciate historical value, and develop a quiet focus that is rare today. By introducing these grounded, thoughtful hobbies, parents give their children the opportunity to step back from screens and cultivate a passion that only a discerning few truly cherish.
The Coimbatore Philatelic Club, which has been promoting the hobby of stamp collection in the city for nearly 28 years, is organizing a special philatelic exhibition at National Model School, Coimbatore from August 13 to 15.
The objective of this event is to create awareness about philately among children and encourage them to take up the hobby.
The exhibition was inaugurated by Mohan Chander, Chairman of National Model Group of Institutions. Around 10 members of the club displayed their collections at the exhibition.
The exhibits featured stamps from across the world belonging to different eras. Schematics stamp that also attract have also been displayed. The exhibition is open to school students as well as the general public, and entry is free.
The kids thoroughly enjoyed exploring the stamps that were put on display. One of the teachers of the school said that 3000 students from National Model Institutions alone are going to explore the exhibition in separate batches. With exhibition being opened to all school kids in Coimbatore, the total participation is likely to cross 5000.
Speaking about the exhibition, Jai Parameswaran, former secretary of the Coimbatore Philatelic Club, said the club conducts monthly meetings on the third Sunday of every month at Hotel Annamalai on State Bank Road. Around 40 members are currently part of the club, with collectors from Coimbatore and surrounding regions participating in its activities.
He said the exhibition was primarily aimed at introducing children to philately and helping them understand the history and significance behind postage stamps. An introductory PowerPoint presentation was also arranged for visitors to provide them with a basic understanding of philately before they viewed the exhibits.
According to him, the growing influence of digital technology and social media has reduced children’s exposure to traditional hobbies such as stamp and coin collecting. However, philately has begun attracting people in their 30s and 35s, particularly those looking for a hobby that can provide relaxation and act as a stress-buster after years of education and professional work.
He noted that philately is not merely about collecting old stamps. The rarity and value of a stamp depend on factors such as demand, availability, limited quantities, printing errors and varieties. A stamp being old does not automatically make it rare, as many older stamps were printed in large quantities when postal communication was the primary means of correspondence.
Parameswaran also highlighted the educational value of philately, saying that the hobby helps develop concentration, patience, discipline and research skills. While the younger generation is increasingly accustomed to quick and instant digital content, hobbies such as stamp collecting encourage children to spend time researching and exploring a subject in depth. The club plans to take its activities to schools and conduct workshops to promote philately.
According to Parameswaran, philately can also become a highly specialised field of study. Collectors can begin with a broad interest and gradually focus on a particular subject. He himself has specialised in World War II-related philately, owing to his childhood interest in the subject.
The Coimbatore Philatelic Club intends to continue conducting awareness programmes and workshops in schools to introduce more children to the hobby and preserve interest in philately in the digital age.
