2016-11-24 Thu

The stone chariot of the World Heritage Site Hampi could soon be featured on new currency notes. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) had sent photographs of the Hampi Mini Circle to the RBI, 1 year back.

The initial decision by the RBI was to feature the Hampi Stone Chariot on Rs 10, Red Fort in Delhi on Rs 20, Sun Temple in Konark on Rs 50, Taj Mahal in Agra on Rs 100, Goa Churches on Rs 500 and the Padmapani Paintings at Ajanta Caves on Rs 1000.

But after the demonetization of the old 500 and 1000 rupees notes, the red fort was featured on the new Rs 500 note. The Stone Chariot photograph is expected to be featured on some other denomination notes.

The Stone Chariot from the Vijayanagar Empire depicts fine carvings and miniature elephants that pull the chariot. It's not clear as to when it was sculpted.