2026 - Mata Bhagwati Devi Sharma | Commemorative Coin

A commemorative coin of ₹100 will be issued to mark the Birth Centenary of Mata Bhagwati Devi Sharma. The gazette notification is awaited from the Ministry of Finance.

Mata Bhagwati Devi Sharma, lovingly revered as Vandaniya Mataji, was a spiritual guide, social reformer and one of the principal forces behind the growth of the All World Gayatri Pariwar. Born in September 1926 into a respected priestly family, she developed a deep inclination towards spirituality from an early age. Her life was shaped by devotion, simplicity, compassion and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of society.

After her marriage to Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya, Mataji became an integral part of his spiritual and social mission. She took responsibility for receiving visitors and caring for those associated with the movement, treating everyone with affection. Her spirit of sacrifice was reflected in her decision to donate the jewellery received at her wedding towards the establishment of Gayatri Tapobhumi at Mathura.

Mataji's contribution went far beyond supporting her husband's activities. She emerged as a powerful force in the awakening and empowerment of women. In 1975, she took the lead in initiating the Mahila Jagran Abhiyan, encouraging women to participate actively in spiritual development, character building and social transformation. The movement expanded considerably, eventually developing thousands of branches and involving more than a million participants, according to the All World Gayatri Pariwar.

At Shantikunj in Haridwar, Mataji became a source of maternal guidance for countless visitors and seekers. She emphasised spiritual discipline, good values, service to society and harmonious family life. Her leadership was rooted in affection and service, creating an environment where spiritual practice was closely connected with everyday responsibilities and social service.

A significant turning point came after Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya took Mahasamadhi on June 2, 1990. Mataji assumed responsibility for guiding the mission and carried forward its work with determination. In October that year, she guided the organisation of a Grand Shraddhanjali Samaroh in remembrance of Gurudev, bringing together more than 1.5 million devotees from India and abroad.

Mataji subsequently played a central role in spreading the message of Gayatri, Yagya and Dev Sanskriti. In 1992, the first major Ashwamedha Mahayagya of the campaign was organised at Jaipur, followed by similar programmes across India and abroad. She herself participated in Ashwamedha programmes in countries including the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States.

Her vision connected spiritual development with social reform. Through the ideals associated with the Gayatri Pariwar, she encouraged self-discipline, compassion, moral responsibility and service. Her emphasis on women's participation was particularly significant, inspiring women to become active contributors to the transformation of their families and society.

Mata Bhagwati Devi Sharma left her physical body on September 19, 1994, at the age of 68. Her influence continued through the institutions, movements and values she helped strengthen. Shantikunj and the wider Gayatri Pariwar continue to remember her as a source of maternal guidance, spiritual strength and selfless service.

Mataji's legacy lies not only in the organisation she helped build, but also in the people she inspired to live with greater discipline, compassion and social responsibility. Her life remains an example of how dedication, sacrifice and compassionate leadership can leave a lasting influence on society.