Hinduist (Hindu) Sculptures

The French India Hinduist series of stamps, issued in 1948 was notable for depicting Hindu deities, temples, and motifs that resonated with the predominantly Hindu population of French India.

This issue followed India’s independence from British rule in 1947 and came during a period of political transition in the French colonies in India. The stamps often featured intricate designs of Hindu gods and goddesses, such as Shiva or Lakshmi, as well as traditional Indian architectural elements like temple structures, symbolizing the deep-rooted religious and cultural heritage of the region. This was an interesting contrast to earlier stamps, which primarily showcased French colonial symbols, reflecting the changing dynamics in the relationship between the colonizers and the local population.