When did mahatma gandhi picture printed on Indian currency: The smiling picture of Mahatma Gandhi, a symbol of India’s identity, its values and freedom struggle, comes to us every day on Indian currency notes. This picture is so familiar that hardly anyone pays attention to when and where it was taken, and how it became an integral part of our national pride. It is not just a picture, but a historical moment document, which reflects the struggle and soul of India. Let us tell you about this picture today
When was the picture taken
This prestigious picture of Mahatma Gandhi, published on Indian notes, which we see today, was actually taken when India was under the British. This photo was taken in April 1946. At that time Mahatma Gandhi went to his residence to meet British politician Lord Frederick William Pathic-Laurence. The meeting took place at the then Viceroy House (now Rashtrapati Bhavan), although it took place in Kolkata according to some sources when Gandhiji reached Viceroy House.
Meanwhile, an unknown person took this picture of Mahatma Gandhi. This picture was chosen because Gandhiji’s smiling expression was most suitable in it, which reflects his simplicity, peace and non -violent views. It is not a caricature or a photo created photo, but a real moment depiction.
Journey of Gandhiji’s picture on Indian currency
After independence, Indian notes initially used to have a picture of the British Emperor King George VI. In 1949, the Government of India released a new design of 1 rupee note, in which the symbol of the lion of Ashoka Pillar of Sarnath was adopted in place of King George. It became a symbol of the new identity of independent India.
Mahatma Gandhi’s picture first appeared on Indian currency in 1969. This was a special note issued to commemorate his 100th birth anniversary. On this note, Gandhi was shown sitting on the backdrop of Sevagram Ashram.
However, Gandhiji’s well-known smiling face, which we see on notes today, first printed on a series of ₹ 500 notes in October 1987. This was a significant change, because earlier Gandhiji’s picture was printed on the notes without a smile.
Subsequently, since 1996, the Reserve Bank of India decided to permanently include this prestigious picture on all value class notes under the ‘Mahatma Gandhi Series’. Many new security features were also added to these notes, such as Window Security Thread, Intaglia features for secret image and visually impaired. Since then, this picture has become an integral and permanent part of Indian currency.
Mahatma Gandhi’s picture on Indian currency is not just an image, but it is a symbol of our history, struggle and ideals for which India stands. The simple picture taken in 1946 is a source of inspiration for crores of Indians, which reminds us of Gandhiji’s principles and his dreams of India. It also reminds us how a person’s simplicity and determination can become the identity of a nation.
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