2026-11-05 Thu

Ekadashi, the eleventh day of the lunar fortnight in the Hindu calendar, holds special religious significance for devotees of Lord Vishnu. During the sacred month of Kartika, Lord Vishnu is particularly worshipped in his Damodara form. On this auspicious occasion, we present a remarkable gold coin from the Vijayanagara Empire depicting Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.

The Vijayanagara Empire, established in 1336 CE by Harihara I and Bukka Raya I, became one of the most powerful kingdoms in medieval South India. It flourished as a centre of political authority, commerce, art, architecture and religious traditions.

Devaraya I (c. 1406–1422 CE), a prominent ruler of the Sangama dynasty, succeeded Virupaksha Raya I. His reign witnessed military campaigns, territorial consolidation and efforts to strengthen the empire's administration. He is also remembered for undertaking important irrigation projects, including improvements to water supply in the capital region through the construction of a dam across the Tungabhadra River.

The featured coin is a gold Half Varaha, also known as a Hon, weighing 1.64 g, issued during the reign of Devaraya I.

The obverse depicts Lord Vishnu seated in Padmasana (lotus posture), accompanied by Goddess Lakshmi. This divine representation symbolises prosperity, preservation, spiritual harmony and auspiciousness. The depiction reflects the strong Vaishnavite religious traditions and devotional imagery associated with Vijayanagara coinage.

The reverse carries a three-line Devanagari inscription reading “Sri Pratapa Devaraya”, proclaiming the ruler's royal prestige and authority.

On this sacred Ekadashi, the coin serves as a beautiful numismatic tribute to Lord Vishnu in the company of Goddess Lakshmi.