Karnataka: Children get a peek into the country's past at coin expo

CHIKKAMAGALURU: For Kruthagya, a class V student, it was a surprise to know that once gold coins were the currency of our nation. On Wednesday, she was excited to see real gold and other coins of ancient India. Like her, thousands of students were surprised to know the rich history, tradition, culture and art forms of India. This was thanks to advocate ML Ashok, who displayed his collection through 'Mudra Virasat', an exhibition of Indian culture at Mudigere. The three-day event that commenced on November 14 saw a rare collection of ancient coins and currency notes dating back to 600 BC. More than 1,000 coins, postal stamps and artifacts depicting the history and culture of India, books, Mysore style paintings, Thanjavur paintings and artworks were on display. The rare and ancient coins from 600BC and those minted by the Magada, Mauurya, and Gupta empires drew eyeballs. Bethany School teacher K Vidhya, who had brought her students to the expo said the students obtained first-hand information about history, tradition, and culture of the country. Although they get theoretical knowledge at school, such an expo will be more effective, she said. Vidya said her students had several questions and they got answers there itself. Manoj Kumar, a resident of Mudigere said the event was well organized and was an eye-opener for people. Not only educated people but people without any education can easily understand our nation through this expo, he said. Ashok, who has been collecting coins and other valuables, said the event was an attempt to sensitize people, particularly youths and students about Indian history. More than 2,000 people, the majority of whom were students, attended the expo on Tuesday alone.