PM Modi Releases ₹150 Commemorative Coin on Sri Aurobindo

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi released the ₹150 commemorative coin along with the postage stamp on occasion of 150th Birth Anniversary of Sri Aurobindo today, December 13, 2022 via video conferencing. 

The programme was held in Kamban Kalai Sangam, Puducherry, under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister highlighted the significance of Sri Aurobindo’s 150th birth anniversary, being celebrated throughout the year, and noted that the nation is honoring him with a commemorative coin and postal stamp. He remarked that such initiatives inspire India’s spirit and strengthen its resolutions.

Shri Modi reflected on how great historical events often coincide, creating a “Yoga-Shakti” or collective energy. He recalled that in 1893, Sri Aurobindo returned to India, Swami Vivekananda delivered his iconic speech in America, and Mahatma Gandhi began his transformative journey in South Africa—events that shaped the nation. Today, similarly, India celebrates 75 years of independence, the 150th anniversary of Sri Aurobindo, and the 125th anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, demonstrating that motivated action can achieve seemingly impossible goals.

The Prime Minister emphasized that Sri Aurobindo’s life reflects ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’, as he was born in Bengal, spoke multiple languages, and left a lasting impact in Gujarat and Puducherry. He noted that embracing India’s traditions and culture allows diversity to naturally flourish, serving as inspiration during Azadi Ka Amrit Kaal. Shri Modi cited the Kashi Tamil Sangamam as a modern example of unity in diversity, showing India’s youth embracing cultural integration beyond language and regional differences.

Shri Modi described Sri Aurobindo as a visionary blending scientific temper, political courage, spiritual insight, and social service. He recalled Aurobindo’s role during the Partition of Bengal, his engagement with the Gita, and his scholarly contributions, including translations of the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Upanishads, and works of Kalidas. This, he said, showcased India’s enduring cultural strength and the reclaiming of its heritage.

The Prime Minister underscored that Sri Aurobindo’s life embodies India’s resilience and the pledge of freedom from the mentality of slavery, highlighting the importance of preserving Indianness. He concluded by asserting that India, with its rich cultural heritage, remains immortal, and its traditions and values continue to inspire the nation to overcome modern global challenges. “By drawing inspiration from Maharishi Aurobindo and through the effort of Sabka Prayas, we can build a developed and prosperous India,” he said.

This marks the second time a commemorative coin is being issued in honor of Sri Aurobindo. The ₹150 coin has been minted by the India Government Mint, Kolkata. The bookings are expected to open soon on the India Government Mint's website and will be updated in the current and upcoming bookings section.