Currency is an essential part of our daily lives — from buying groceries to paying for services, money plays a crucial role. But have you ever taken a moment to wonder why Mahatma Gandhi's photo is printed on Indian currency notes, and not that of any other historical figure? Here's the fascinating story behind it.
Every country’s currency often features prominent figures who symbolize its identity, heritage, or values. In India, that symbol is Mahatma Gandhi — the Father of the Nation. But this wasn’t always the case.
Prior to India's independence in 1947, Indian currency featured images of elephants, kings, and plants. During British rule, Indian notes bore the portrait of King George VI. This colonial influence remained until India started redesigning its currency post-independence.
In 1949, India issued its first independent currency design, replacing King George’s image with the Ashoka Pillar — a symbol of national pride and sovereignty.
There were discussions about featuring other prominent personalities such as Rabindranath Tagore, Mother Teresa, and Abul Kalam Azad on Indian currency. However, due to Mahatma Gandhi’s widespread national and international recognition, it was ultimately decided to feature his image.
Mahatma Gandhi’s portrait first appeared on Indian currency in 1969, marking his 100th birth anniversary. The note featured a picture of Gandhi with the Sevagram Ashram in the background and bore the signature of then-RBI Governor L. K. Jha.
As India's economy expanded rapidly, so did the evolution of its currency. In 1987, the Reserve Bank of India introduced the ₹500 note, which prominently featured Mahatma Gandhi. Since then, his portrait has appeared on all currency denominations, accompanied by the Ashoka Pillar as a watermark.
Though the design and security features of Indian currency have changed multiple times over the decades, one thing has remained constant — the enduring presence of Mahatma Gandhi’s image on our notes.