The first day cover released on the occasion.
Indore (Madhya Pradesh), March 29: On the occasion of Nirwan Bi-centenary of Terapanth Acharya Shri Bhikashu, First All India Level Stamp Exhibition on Jainism theme MAHAPRAGYAPEX-2004 was organized at Indore (M.P.) on 29th & 30th March 2004 under the auspicious presence and guidance of Pujya Acharya Mahapragyaji. Stamp collections on only JAINISM theme were exhibited in this unique Philatelic Exhibition. Mrs. Sudhamahi Raghunathan, Chancellor, Jain Vishva Bharti University was the chief guest and Mr. A.K.A. Joshi, PMG, Indore was special guest of the Inaugural function on 29th March 2004. Mr. Girish Verma, Station Director, Doordarshan was the chief guest and Mr. Anil Mahajan, GM, Dainik Bhaskar was special guest on Prize Distribution function on 30th March 2004. Pujya Acharya Mahapragyaji was present both the days alongwith the monks of his Sangh. Eminent Philatelist Dr. Ravindra Pahalwan, Jury member declared following awards-
Best entry of the Exhibition - Mr. Sudhir Jain (Satna, M.P.)
Gold Medal - Mr. Sudhir Jain (Satna, M.P.), Mr. Gaurav Dalal (Ahmedabad, Gujrat)
Silver Medal - Dr. Pradeep Jain (Balod, Chhattisgarh)
Bronze Medal - Mrs. Rashmi Jain (Satna, M.P.), Mr. M.L. Bafna (Jodhpur, Rajsthan), Mr. N.K. Umadekar (Dewas, M.P.), Mr. Sanjay Verma (Bikaner, Rajsthan), Mr. Shripal Jain (Satna, M.P.), Miss Minakshi Jain Chopra (Ganga Shahar)
Five participants were awarded Consolation Prizes.
A special cover was issued on 29th March 2004 and Indian Postal Department provided a special cancellation on it. Pragya Pustakalaya & Vachnalaya owned by Terapanthi Sabha Indore organized this exhibition with the help of Indore Philatelic Society.
News and Photos Courtesy: Sudhir Jain