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Nazarana Mudra of Indore Ruler Tukoji Rao II

2026-06-10 Wed

Tukojirao Holkar II (Tukoji Rao II Holkar) was the Maharaja of Indore from 1844 to 1886. He belonged to the Maratha Holkar dynasty, which ruled the state of Indore in central India. The Holkars were of Dhangar = shepherd Maratha origin, traditionally linked to a village called Hol (or Hal) in Maharashtra near Jejuri, Pune district. The family name derives from "Hol-kar" (inhabitant of Hol). Malhar Rao Holkar, the founder, was born in 1693 (or 1694) in a Dhangar family. He rose through military service under Peshwa Baji Rao I.

The term "Nazarana" derives from "Nazar" (or Nazr), meaning an offering, gift, or tribute presented to a superior such as a king or emperor during formal audience and special occasions. These specially minted prestige coins were struck out of full die and larger, heavier, better-struck.

This silver Nazarana Mudra weighing 11.25g, date Sake 1788 (CE 1866) bears on Obverse Devnagari legend “Holkara Sri Tukojidrasya Jayati” and legend “Mudra” in centre. The reverse depicts radiating sun encircled by legend “Sri Samba Mallaryahalya Prasadeta Sake 1788".

To derive the gregorian date from Saka date, add 78 to the Saka date.