The Joint issue with India that never was

Israel and India established full diplomatic relations on January 29, 1992. However, even before that, Israel had a Consulate in Mumbai from 1953. Ties between the two countries flourished and currently include agricultural cooperation, water management collaboration, thriving trade, increasing tourism and much more. Over the last 32 years, Israelis have developed a special relationship with the people of India, and many people go to India in post army trips.

An announcement was made that on the 23rd February 2024, there would be a joint stamp issue with India depicting two colorful festivals, Purim and Holi, representing our close cultural links and similarities between our festivals. 

The Purim Festival relates to the miracle the work of Queen Esther, who arrived at the royal court of the Persian Empire at a time of need for the Jewish people. 

The Holi Festival also marks a story of miraculous rescue. Tradition tells of an evil king who demanded that his subjects worship only him and abandon all other gods.

A short while before the day of issue, India Post withdrew its permission and neither issue was released. This was presumed to be a direct result of Gaza's invasion of Israel. India did not want to be seen to take sides although any sane person would have sided with Israel, just as people side with Ukraine.