In the grandIndia’s history, few figures shine as brightly as Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. His unwavering dedication to truth and non-violence not only ignited the flame of freedom but also left an indelible mark on the very soul of our nation. Today, his iconic image graces every denomination of the Indian currency, making him an omnipresent inspiration in the daily lives of millions. But have you ever wondered how this remarkable transformation unfolded? Let’s embark on a riveting journey through history to discover the incredible story of how Mahatma Gandhi became the enduring symbol of Indian currency.
How Mahatma Gandhi’s smile became an enduring symbol on every Indian banknote. The selection of photograph to the enduring principles he stood for. The extraordinary journey that transformed currency into a canvas for inspiration and a tribute to a nation’s indomitable spirit
The Gandhi portrait that we behold on our banknotes is not a mere rendering; it is a snippet from a poignant photograph captured in 1946. In this historic image, Gandhi stands alongside the British politician Lord Frederick William Pethick-Lawrence, with a radiant smile that encapsulates the spirit of his convictions. The photographer’s identity and the person responsible for selecting this photograph remain shrouded in mystery.
It was only in the year 1996 that Mahatma Gandhi’s countenance graced the legal banknotes of every denomination issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). However, his inaugural appearance on Indian currency dates back to 1969 when a special series was introduced to commemorate his centennial birth anniversary. These notes, bearing the signature of RBI Governor LK Jha, featured Gandhi with the Sevagram Ashram as the backdrop. A significant milestone arrived in October 1987 with the issuance of Rs 500 currency notes, prominently showcasing Gandhi’s image.
The task of crafting the designs for Indian rupee notes rests with the RBI’s Department of Currency Management. These designs must receive the approval of the central bank and the Union government. In accordance with Section 25 of the RBI Act, 1934, “the design, form, and material of banknotes” must be approved by the central government, following recommendations made by the central board.
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The remarkable journey of Mahatma Gandhi’s portrait on Indian currency serves as an intriguing narrative of history, decision-making, and symbolism. His presence on the currency serves as an enduring testament to his invaluable contributions to India’s quest for freedom and the principles that he steadfastly championed. As we carry these banknotes in our daily transactions, we are, in fact, carrying a fragment of India’s illustrious history and heritage within our pockets.
The idea of imprinting Gandhi’s visage on currency notes was not a novel one. It was initially proposed by some members of the Constituent Assembly in 1948, shortly after Gandhi’s tragic assassination. However, this proposal encountered resistance from various quarters, with some arguing that it might run contrary to the secular and democratic principles of the nascent nation. Moreover, there was no consensus on which photograph of Gandhi should be used, given the myriad appearances he had throughout his life.
In the interim, the currency notes continued to feature the Lion Capital at Sarnath, a symbol of India’s ancient heritage and its rich tapestry of diversity, which had replaced the portrait of the British King after India’s independence.
The special series of notes printed in 1969 as part of the centenary celebrations of Gandhi’s birth, resonated deeply with the public, who saw it as a heartfelt tribute to Gandhi’s pivotal role in India’s journey to independence and his profound message of peace and non-violence. However, it was not until 1996 that Gandhi’s image became a permanent fixture on all Indian currency denominations. The decision to anoint Gandhi as the sole emblem of Indian currency was underpinned by several significant factors. One was to pay homage to his indomitable contribution to India’s nation-building and social reform. Another was to project a distinct and recognisable identity for India on the global stage. Additionally, the difficulty of replicating Gandhi’s portrait was considered a crucial deterrent against counterfeiting and forgery.
Today, Gandhi’s countenance graces more than 90 billion banknotes circulating in India, with denominations ranging from Rs. 5 to Rs. 2000. His image has become synonymous with Indian currency, recognized worldwide as an emblem of India’s democracy and its kaleidoscope of diversity. It also stands as a continual reminder of Gandhi’s timeless ideals and values, which continue to inspire not only India but the entire world. Mahatma Gandhi, the emblem of our currency, is more than just ink and paper; he is the living embodiment of our shared dreams, aspirations, and the undying spirit of a nation that eternally strives for justice, truth, and peace.
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