A special postal stamp was released today at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) at INOX, Panaji, to mark the birth centenary of legendary Goan cinematographer K Vaikunth. Celebrated for his iconic work in films such as Seeta Aur Geeta, Aandhi, and Mausam, Vaikunth brought Goan artistry to mainstream Indian cinema, earning national and international acclaim, including a National Award for his documentary And Miles to Go.
Known for his masterful cinematography across landmark feature films and documentaries, including his celebrated works for Films Division, Vaikunth is remembered as one of India’s finest visual storytellers whose legacy continues to inspire generations of filmmakers.
The commemorative stamp was formally released by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant in the presence of Additional Secretary & Financial Advisor (I&B) Deepak Narain, Additional Secretary (I&B) Shri Prabhat, Chief Postmaster General (Maharashtra & Goa) Amitabh Singh, and Vaikunth’s son Amit Kunkolienkar along with family members.
Addressing the gathering, Sawant celebrated Vaikunth’s lifelong dedication to the craft of cinematography, describing him as “the man whose camera shaped the visual language of classical Hindi cinema.” He highlighted that Vaikunth rose from the lanes of Margao to become one of India’s most respected cinematographers, working closely with legendary filmmakers including Gulzar and Ramesh Sippy, and contributing to iconic films such as Seeta Aur Geeta and Aandhi.
“Vaikunthbab was more than a cameraman. He was a creator of emotion, mood and vision,” Sawant said, adding that his unique style captured both grand cinematic spectacles and the softest human emotions. Despite shaping some of the finest visual moments in Indian cinema, Vaikunth remained “a humble and often unsung hero,” he observed, noting that his legacy continues to inspire film lovers across the world.
Additional Secretary (I&B) Prabhat said it was his privilege to honour India’s “distinguished master of images and proud son of the soil, K Vaikunth.” He added, “A commemorative postal stamp is much more than a postage instrument, it is a miniature public memorial that carries the story of a life and legacy into homes and institutions across the country.”
“Through this release, Vaikunth’s contributions are permanently etched into the visual archives of the republic,” he said.
Also addressing the gathering, Chief Postmaster General Singh said the commemorative stamp is “more than a symbol of postage, it is a tribute that carries the history and culture of our country across distances. Through this stamp, we ensure that the life and contributions of K Vaikunth continue to inspire generations to come.”
The ceremony concluded with a screening of Vaikunth’s acclaimed 17-minute English documentary Goa Marches On, offering audiences a glimpse into his artistic vision, technical finesse and profound love for Goa.
