Unveiling of 'Early North India and Its Coinage' by Hinduja Foundation: A Historical Milestone

On January 16, 2026, Uttar Pradesh's Chief Minister, Shri Yogi Adityanath, proudly unveiled 'Early North India and Its Coinage', a significant publication by the Hinduja Foundation. This book, illustrated and researched by renowned historian Devendra Handa, captures the essence of over 850 ancient coins from North India, dating from 300 BCE to 300 CE. The unveiling ceremony was held with notable dignitaries present, including Shri Jaiveer Singh, the State's Minister of Tourism and Culture, as well as members from the Hinduja Foundation like Mr. Ashok P. Hinduja, its chairman, and Mr. Prakash P. Hinduja, a trustee.

The book serves as a pioneering study in its genre, marking the first illustrated exploration of Indian coinage from this period. It provides comprehensive insights into the economic and cultural dynamics of early North Indian societies by examining coins that stem from significant centers such as Mathura, Kannauj, Panchal, and Kaushambi, situated in the historically rich Ganga–Yamuna doab region. This area encompasses parts of Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan, reflecting a diverse historical tapestry.

In his address, Chief Minister Adityanath remarked on the importance of understanding and maintaining historical narratives, emphasizing it as a national obligation. He praised the Hinduja Foundation for its commitment to this task, noting that the publication not only catalogues India's rich heritage but also emphasizes the cultural and historical contributions made by Indian civilization to the wider world.

Chairman Ashok P. Hinduja expressed his gratitude towards Shri Yogi Adityanath for the ceremony and highlighted the significance of the coins' public exhibition at the Lucknow museum. He pointed out that throughout history, invasions had led to the loss of invaluable artifacts and documentation, hence the Hinduja Group views itself as a protector of India's cultural legacy. The book stands not just as a scholarly collection, but as an important tool in the preservation of the nation’s heritage.

The text includes detailed representations of various coin types, their materials, and engraved symbols. Coins depicting gods, temples, and early images of deities like Kārttikeya, Śiva, and Lakṣmī reflect the interconnection of trade, religious beliefs, and power structures during the early centuries of Indian history. The visual assets within the book bring to life the artistry and cultural significance tied to these ancient artifacts, making it a vital asset for historians, numismatists, and anyone interested in the historical journey of India.

Through this venture, the Hinduja Foundation not only reinforces its role as a custodian of cultural history but also strives to keep the heritage of ancient India alive for generations to come. This ambitious project is expected to inspire further research and interest in the rich tapestry of Indian numismatics, paving the way for future explorations and dialogues in the scholarly community.

The unveiling of 'Early North India and Its Coinage' signifies a major step towards acknowledging the rich diversity of India's past, embodying the shared responsibility of all to safeguard this legacy. Embarking on such projects ensures the historical narratives of regions like North India remain vibrant, relevant, and accessible to future learners, historians, and enthusiasts alike.

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