Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday, November 3, released a Rs 250 commemorative coin to mark the 250th birth anniversary of legendary Carnatic music composer Muthuswami Dikshithar in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
The coin was unveiled at Swatantrata Bhavan, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), during a special programme titled ‘Amara Guruguha: A 250-Year Commemoration of Muthuswami Dikshithar’. The event was organised by the Centre of Excellence for Indian Knowledge Systems at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT-BHU).
The commemorative coin honours Dikshithar’s immense contribution to Indian classical music and his lasting influence on the Carnatic music tradition.
What Is The Price Of The Rs 250 Commemorative Coin?
Although the coin carries a denomination of Rs 250, it is primarily intended as a collector’s item and is not meant for regular circulation or everyday transactions.
According to reports, the coin weighs 35 grams and is made of a four-metal alloy comprising 50 per cent silver, 40 per cent copper, five per cent nickel and five per cent zinc.
The coin was listed for purchase on the India Government Mint’s official website at Rs 6,985. At the time of reporting on Tuesday evening, 238 pieces were listed in stock.
When And Where Can You Buy The Coin?
Following its ceremonial release, the commemorative coin has been made available for purchase through the official website of the India Government Mint.
Collectors and members of the public interested in acquiring the limited-edition coin can check its availability and purchase details on the mint’s website.
It is important to note that the Rs 250 denomination does not mean the coin can be used as a regular Rs 250 currency coin. Its purchase price is higher because of its precious-metal content and commemorative value.
Who Was Muthuswami Dikshithar?
Born in 1775, Muthuswami Dikshithar was one of the most celebrated composers of Carnatic music and is regarded as a member of the revered Carnatic Music Trinity, alongside Tyagaraja and Syama Sastri.
A composer, vocalist and veena player, Dikshithar made significant contributions to Indian classical music through his compositions, which combined intricate musical structures, Sanskrit literature, Indian philosophy and devotional themes.
He is believed to have composed around 450-500 works, many of which continue to be performed by Carnatic musicians.
His compositions, including the Navagraha Kritis and Kamalamba Navavaranam, remain an important part of India’s classical music heritage.
Dikshithar also spent a considerable period in Varanasi, where he composed several works dedicated to temples and Hindu deities.
Special Musical Tribute At The Release Ceremony
The commemorative programme featured performances celebrating the composer’s musical legacy. Carnatic vocalist Dr Sumitra Vasudev presented a vocal recital, followed by a veena performance by Ramana Balachandran.
The musicians were accompanied by B Ganapathyraman on the mridangam and L Ramakrishnan on the violin.
During the programme, Sitharaman also interacted with students and spoke about the importance of introducing younger generations to India’s rich musical and cultural traditions.