The Lao PDR (Lao People’s Democratic Republic) has recently released a postage stamp that showcases Shri Ram Lalla of Ayodhya. This act has made Lao PDR the first country in the world to issue a stamp that portrays the esteemed deity.  

The recent announcement of the stamp release was made during the three-day visit of India’s external affairs minister, Dr S Jaishankar’s to the country. He emphasized that the stamp highlights the deep-rooted civilizational and cultural connections between Lao PDR and India. 

The stamp collection includes two unique stamps — one featuring Lord Rama of Ayodhya and the other showcasing Lord Buddha from the city of Luang Prabang, the ancient capital of Laos. 

Who are the creators behind the unique stamps? 

One stamp showcases Lord Rama of Ayodhya beautifully designed under the guidance of the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, with significant inputs from various artists and saints. 

While the other features Lord Buddha of Luang Prabang perfectly crafted by Monk Churana Kathera. He aimed to depict the Lord Buddha’s eternal life through the stamp. 

The Statue of Shri Ram Lalla’s specialty and origin  

The black stone statue of Shri Ram Lalla, depicting the child form of Lord Ram, is a prominent element in the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, also known as Ram Janmabhoomi.

The sacred statue, standing at a height of 51 inches. It was ceremoniously installed in the temple’s innermost sanctorum on January 22, 2024. The sculptor Arun Yogiraj sculpted the sculpture.

When was the postage stamp set unveiled? 

The special commemorative postage stamp set was revealed in a ceremony in Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, with India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar and Lao PDR’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith jointly unveiling it.  

India’s ambassador to Laos, Prashant Agrawal also attended the event and was present at the time of the unveiling. The special event took place while Dr Jaishankar was visiting the Southeast Asian country to participate in ASEAN meetings. 

A symbol of shared heritage 

Indiana highly respect the legendary epic Ramayana, which also holds significant importance in Laotian culture. Laotian refer to the Ramayana as Ramakien, or the Story of Phra Lak Phra Ram.

Performers often present the Ramakien, or the Story of Phra Lak Phra Ram during auspicious occasions. The theme of the stamp set celebrates the Shared Culture Heritage of Lao PDR and India, represents the long-standing historical ties.