Diwali is just around the corner, and with it comes the warmth of festive traditions. One popular custom during this auspicious season is exchanging gifts and Shagun envelopes as a symbol of good luck and blessings.
These Shagun envelopes often contain sums from ₹100 to ₹1,000; further including an added ₹1 coin in each envelope. But have you ever wondered why this seemingly small addition is so significant? This article aims to uncover the hidden meaning behind the tradition of including that ₹1 coin in Shagun envelopes.
ADVERTISEMENT
History behind the usage of coins
The usage of coins is not a new phenomenon and it dates back to ancient times. The earliest of Indian coins date back to the 6th century BCE of the Mahajanapada period. During this time, the usage of silver and copper coins called punch-marked coins was prevalent with motifs like trees, hills, elephants, etc.
The Kushans (1st to 3rd century CE) were the first ones to introduce gold coins. The use of coins continued throughout the Maurya and Gupta empires, and they evolved and were standardized in shape and weight. While gold coins were called Dinars, silver was known as Rupakas.
Fast-forwarding to the medieval era, it was around 1545, during the reign of Sher Shah Suri who introduced his silver coins with the name “Rupiya,” a name that influenced the monetary systems of the Mughal empire and eventually the modern Indian rupee.
ADVERTISEMENT
During the British era, the coins bore images of the King and Queen but as India got independence, it began minting its own coins with different motifs. The current Rupee 1 coin features the denomination “1” and below that two stalks of grain, on the obverse side. On the reverse side, there is “Ashok Pillar”.
Significance of Rs 1 on Shagun envelopes that is given during festivities and occasions like weddings
Shagun envelopes with a certain amount of money are often given at festivities and weddings. With this amount, a mandatory Rupee 1 coin is also accompanied. Why? Well, the number towards the end of the amount that is zero is considered inauspicious.
So, this addition of Rs 1 coin is seen as a way to make the amount auspicious, as it transforms a round, “closed” figure into an “open” one. This gesture symbolizes continuity, growth, and the wish for ongoing prosperity.
ADVERTISEMENT
Furthermore, in numerology and spiritual beliefs, the number one represents new beginnings and fresh starts. By adding this Rs 1 coin inside the Shagun envelopes that are given on festivities like Diwali and occasions like weddings, the giver grants luck and positive energy to the recipient.
On Dhanteras, many bought gold and silver coins featuring Maa Lakshmi
Dhantera is a Hindu festival that is celebrated two days before Diwali. On this festival, buying gold and silver coins featuring Maa Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, is a cherished tradition.
Maa Lakshmi featuring on gold coins is also not a new tradition. Such a kind of earliest coin belongs again to the Kushan Empire (1st to 3rd century CE). The Gupta dynasty also followed up with this tradition that went on till the Medieval era but in fewer numbers.
Now, Maa Lakshmi does not feature on everyday coins but on commemorative coins and special editions. People buy it during such festivities as an auspicious symbol.
ADVERTISEMENT
All in all, among all these denominations, the Rs 1 coin has a significant value that no denomination can surpass. It is to bring continued growth and luck. What are your thoughts on this information? Did you know about it? Do share your thoughts via the comments below.
Also read: 7 Lesser-Knows Facts About The Indian Rupee Symbol – ₹
ADVERTISEMENT
