Why does Indian currency feature Mahatma Gandhi? | IN FOCUS I Drishti IAS

Summary

This video script traces the history of Mahatma Gandhi's image on Indian banknotes, from its absence in early post-independence currency to its iconic presence since 1969. It explores the evolution of currency designs, security features, and the selection process behind Gandhi's portrait. The script also discusses the significance of other symbols like the Ashoka Pillar and the demands for including other figures like Lord Ganesha and Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. The video provides an in-depth look at how India's currency reflects its national identity and the technological advancements in banknote security.

Takeaways

• 😀 Mahatma Gandhi's image has been a constant feature on Indian banknotes since 1969, becoming a symbol of India's identity post-independence.
• 😀 The first post-independence Indian banknotes still featured King George VI's image until 1949, when new designs were introduced.
• 😀 The Ashoka Pillar from Sarnath, an ancient symbol, replaced the British monarch's image on Indian banknotes in 1949, signaling India's independence.
• 😀 In 1969, to mark Gandhi's 100th birth anniversary, a special series of banknotes featuring his image was issued, though not all denominations initially included his portrait.
• 😀 The 1987 ₹500 note marked the full integration of Mahatma Gandhi’s image across multiple denominations of Indian currency.
• 😀 The 1996 Mahatma Gandhi series introduced new security features such as the latent image, security thread, and micro-text to prevent counterfeiting.
• 😀 Gandhi’s image on Indian currency was selected for its national appeal, symbolic of nonviolence and independence, and also for its difficulty to replicate in counterfeit notes.
• 😀 The face of Mahatma Gandhi on currency was based on a photograph taken during British colonial rule, which captured a smile that was considered ideal for representation.
• 😀 Despite proposals to feature other prominent figures like Lord Ganesha, APJ Abdul Kalam, and Rabindranath Tagore, the Indian government has upheld Gandhi's image as the central figure on currency notes.
• 😀 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), through its Currency Management Department, is responsible for designing Indian currency, but designs must receive approval from both the RBI and the Government of India.

Q & A

Why is Mahatma Gandhi’s image featured on Indian banknotes?

Mahatma Gandhi’s image is featured on Indian banknotes as a symbol of India's independence, unity, and values. His face represents the nation's respect for his leadership in the freedom struggle and his ideals of nonviolence and truth.

Was Mahatma Gandhi's image always present on Indian currency?

No, Mahatma Gandhi's image was not always present. Initially, after independence, Indian banknotes featured King George VI's portrait. Gandhi's image was first introduced on certain notes in 1969, during his centenary year.

When did Mahatma Gandhi's portrait become a permanent feature on Indian currency?

Mahatma Gandhi's portrait became a permanent feature on Indian currency notes in 1996 with the introduction of the Mahatma Gandhi Series of banknotes.

What was the design of Indian currency like immediately after independence?

Immediately after independence, Indian currency featured the portrait of King George VI, as the country was still under British rule until August 15, 1947. After independence, the Ashoka Pillar from Sarnath was introduced on the notes.

What significant changes were made to currency design in 1950?

In 1950, India introduced a new series of banknotes with the Ashoka Pillar from Sarnath as the main design element, replacing the portrait of King George VI.

How did the designs of Indian currency evolve over the decades?

Over the years, the designs evolved to reflect national symbols, progress in agriculture, science, and technology. Notable changes include the introduction of images like the Konark Wheel, Aryabhata satellite, and features to highlight India’s technological and agricultural advancements.

What role did security features play in the design changes of Indian banknotes?

Security features were introduced to combat counterfeiting. In the 1990s, advancements like security threads, latent images, and specialized prints for the visually impaired were added to the banknotes to make them more difficult to replicate.

Why was Mahatma Gandhi's image chosen for Indian currency instead of other prominent figures?

Mahatma Gandhi was chosen because of his universal appeal as a leader who symbolized India’s independence movement and values like nonviolence. His image represents the unity and identity of India, making it more fitting than other figures.

What was the significance of the 1969 Mahatma Gandhi Series of banknotes?

The 1969 Mahatma Gandhi Series marked the first time his portrait appeared on Indian currency. It was released during the centenary celebrations of his birth, and these notes included additional symbols like the Sevagram Ashram to highlight Gandhi's life and work.

Have there been any demands to replace Gandhi’s portrait with other figures on Indian currency?

Yes, there have been demands from political leaders like Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal to replace Gandhi’s portrait with images of gods like Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi. However, these demands have been rejected, as it was believed that no other figure could represent India's identity better than Gandhi.