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UPPCS Mains 2011

Mughal Cultural Inclusivity

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Ruler who issued coins with figures of Rama-Sita:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept Akbar’s currency was not just a medium of exchange but a tool for social messaging. His 'Rama-Siya' coins were a powerful symbol of his policy of *Sulh-i-Kul
(Universal Peace).

Explanation
Toward the end of his reign (around 1604–1605), Akbar issued rare gold and silver coins depicting Lord Rama and Sita walking. The coins also bore the legend 'Rama-Siya' in the Devanagari script.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: This was a radical departure from orthodox Islamic numismatics, which generally prohibited the depiction of human figures on coins.
Logic 2: By using Hindu deities and local scripts, Akbar aimed to bridge the gap between the Mughal state and his majority Hindu subjects.

Active Recall

Question

When were these Rama-Sita coins issued?

Answer

They were issued in the 50th year of Akbar's reign, just before his death, as a culminating expression of his religious philosophy.

Core Insight

The Rama-Sita coins remain the most visible proof of Akbar’s attempt to create a syncretic imperial identity that transcended religious orthodoxy.

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