2020 - Smt. Vijaya Raje Scindia | Commemorative Coin

The first commemorative coin of 2020 was released to mark the Birth Centenary of Smt. Vijaya Raje Scindia.

Smt. Vijaya Raje Scindia remains an iconic figure in modern Indian political and social history, remembered not only for her royal lineage but also for her profound commitment to public service and national development. Born on October 12, 1919, in Sagar, Central Provinces, she rose from the sphere of princely India to become one of the most influential women leaders of independent India. After marrying Maharaja Jivajirao Scindia of Gwalior, she embraced her new role with poise, grace, and profound responsibility, gradually transitioning from royal duties to active participation in democratic governance.

Her political journey began in the 1950s, marking the start of a long and eventful public life that spanned several decades. Initially associated with the Indian National Congress, she later became one of the founding pillars of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh and subsequently the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Her ideological clarity, unwavering resolve, and deep-rooted belief in cultural nationalism shaped much of the Party’s early direction. Often addressed as the “Rajmata of Gwalior,” she commanded respect across political lines for her simplicity, personal integrity, and absolute dedication to public welfare.

Vijaya Raje Scindia served multiple terms in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, demonstrating a strong connection with the people she represented. Her speeches, known for their conviction and sincerity, articulated her vision of a self-reliant India rooted in spiritual and cultural values. She tirelessly worked for women’s empowerment, rural development, and social upliftment. Despite her aristocratic background, she lived a life guided by austerity and spiritual discipline, earning her admirers from all walks of life.

Her contributions extended beyond politics. As a social reformer, she supported numerous charitable initiatives, educational institutions, and cultural organizations. She believed deeply in India’s civilizational ethos and sought to integrate traditional values with modern aspirations. The challenges she faced—personal, political, and financial—only strengthened her resolve to serve the nation with greater humility and determination.

Smt. Vijaya Raje Scindia’s legacy continues to resonate across India, reflected not only in the political landscape she helped shape but also in the countless lives she touched through her compassion and service. Her life story stands as a powerful testament to courage, conviction, and an unyielding devotion to the nation.

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