Bharat Mata on Indian Currency: PM Modi Unveils First-Ever ₹100 Coin for RSS 100th Anniversary

India witnessed a historic moment on October 1, 2025, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a special ₹100 commemorative coin and a postal stamp to mark the 100th anniversary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). What makes this event truly remarkable is that the new coin carries the first-ever image of Bharat Mata on Indian currency since independence.

The unveiling at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi was more than just a ceremony. It was a moment that blended history, culture, and national pride. Let’s explore what makes this commemorative coin and stamp so significant.

5 Powerful Reasons Why the First-Ever Bharat Mata Coin Is Historic

1. National Emblem on One Side: The front of the coin carries the Lion Capital of Ashoka, India’s official National Emblem.
   

2. First-Ever Bharat Mata Depiction: The reverse side shows Bharat Mata seated on a lion in the Varada Mudra, symbolizing generosity and blessings.
   

3. Representation of RSS Volunteers: Three RSS swayamsevaks in their traditional uniform are shown bowing before Bharat Mata, reflecting devotion to the nation.
   

4. Sacred Sanskrit Motto: The coin carries the RSS motto in Sanskrit: “Rashtray Swaha, Idam Rashtriya, Idam Na Mama,” meaning, “Everything is for the nation, nothing is mine.”

5.  Pure Silver Craftsmanship:  Made of pure silver, the coin is both a cultural treasure and a valuable collector’s piece.
   

The Commemorative Postal Stamp

Along with the coin, PM Modi also released a special postal stamp. The stamp highlights the RSS’s participation in the 1963 Republic Day Parade, a historic event that marked its growing recognition in public life.

The design shows swayamsevaks marching in the parade as well as their service activities in society. It carries the words “Rashtra Bhakti-Seva-Anushashan,” which means “Patriotism-Service-Discipline.” These values represent the RSS’s guiding principles.

Why Is This Coin and Stamp Release So Important for India?

• The RSS has completed 100 years since its founding in 1925 and has grown from small beginnings in Nagpur to a presence across India and abroad.

• Today, it is active in areas like education, healthcare, disaster relief, and blood donation drives.

• The organization is recognized as a movement that has influenced Indian society and politics in many ways.

• With its motto of putting the nation above self, the RSS has left a lasting mark on India’s history.

Key Moments from the Ceremony

The event took place at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi. PM Modi led the ceremony in the presence of senior RSS leaders, including General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale. 

Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also attended.

In his speech, the Prime Minister said the coin and stamp are not just commemorative items but also a tribute to the RSS’s century-long journey of nation-building, discipline, and service.

Image Credit: Engineering Bro

5 Key Reasons: How Bharat Mata on Currency Changes History

• First-Ever Appearance: Bharat Mata has never appeared on Indian currency before, making this the first-ever coin to feature her image.

• Celebrating Culture: The coin highlights India’s cultural heritage and national identity in a tangible form.

• Symbol of Patriotism: It represents devotion, patriotism, and collective responsibility toward the nation.

• Bridging Past and Present: The release connects historical values with modern India, inspiring people across generations.

• A Historic Milestone: PM Modi described the moment as a milestone of pride and historical importance for the country.

How India Reacted to the Historic Bharat Mata Coin

• The release of the ₹100 coin and postal stamp created nationwide excitement and discussion.

• Collectors, historians, and cultural experts called it a rare and significant moment in independent India’s history.

• Many viewed the coin as a meaningful recognition of the RSS’s century-long role in society and nation-building.

• The coin and stamp serve as lasting symbols of national pride, cultural heritage, and devotion to the country.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why did PM Modi release the ₹100 coin and stamp?

To mark the 100th anniversary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

2. What is special about the ₹100 coin?

It is the first Indian currency to feature Bharat Mata.

3. What is shown on one side of the coin?

The National Emblem of India, the Lion Capital of Ashoka.

4. What is shown on the other side of the coin?

Bharat Mata seated on a lion, three RSS volunteers bowing, and the RSS motto in Sanskrit.

5. What is the RSS motto on the coin?

“Rashtray Swaha, Idam Rashtriya, Idam Na Mama,” meaning “Everything belongs to the nation.”

6. What is the coin made of?

Pure silver.

7. What does the postal stamp depict?

It shows the RSS’s participation in the 1963 Republic Day Parade and its service work.

8. What values are written on the stamp?

“Rashtra Bhakti - Seva - Anushashan,” meaning “Patriotism - Service - Discipline.”

9. When and where was the coin released?

On October 1, 2025, at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi.

10. Who attended the unveiling event?

PM Modi, RSS leaders, Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Delhi CM Rekha Gupta.