British Finance Minister Rishi Sunak on Thursday announced the issuance of a series of coins in honor of Indian independence leader Mahatma Gandhi, coinciding with Hinduism’s biggest holiday, Diwali.
As Sunak explained in a statement, this is a tribute to an “influential leader who inspired millions of people around the world” and was “instrumental in the movement for Indian independence” from the United Kingdom in 1947.
The launch coincides with the 75th anniversary of India’s independence. But also with Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights is described, as Sunak recalls, as a “practicing Hindu.”
“This is the first time that Gandhi has been celebrated with an official currency of the United Kingdom,” the British Treasury said in its statement. They added that it was a way to “build a lasting relationship and cultural ties between London and New Delhi”.
The value of coins made of silver and gold ranges between 2 and 100 pounds.
Above them was the lotus, India’s national flower, along with a quote from Gandhi: “My life is my message.”
Additionally, other objects are offered within this campaign, such as a gold ingot representing the Hindu goddess of prosperity Lakshmi, an object of worship during Diwali.
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