2026-06-08 Mon

Kadambas of Goa were a prominent medieval dynasty that ruled Goa / parts of the Konkan coast from approximately c. 960 CE to 1340 CE. They were a branch of the ancient Kadamba dynasty of Banavasi of Karnataka. They are credited with making Goa a major maritime trading power and contributing significantly to its cultural and architectural heritage.

Kadmbas of Goa developed a strong navy and expanded maritime trade with regions like Zanzibar, Bengal, Gujarat, Sri Lanka, and beyond. They promoted Shaivism while also patronizing Jainism. They built impressive temples, including the famous Mahadev Temple at Tambdi Surla - 12th century, one of Goa's best-preserved ancient temples.

They Issued beautiful gold coins (Gadyana/Pagoda) weighing approx 4.5g featuring a lion emblem with different devices and Kannada legend on obverse. The reverse will carry name and title of the king in Devanagari/NandiNagari.

The above Gadyana of Kadamba Ruler Jayakeshi Deva carries on obverse a Lion standing with raised forepaw, facing left. Cyclical year “Prajapati” inscribed in Kannada in front of the Lion, Crescent and Sun symbols above. The reverse depicts Devanagari legend “Sri Sapta / Kotisha labdhavara / Vira Jayakesi / Deva Malavara / mari”.