113) Banknotes of the Philippines Peso:

113) Banknotes of the Philippines Peso:

Historical development of Currency Notes in Philippines:

On 01.05.1852, the first commercial bank in Philippines the “El Banco Espanol Filipino de Isabel 2A” circulated Banknotes in the denominations of 10, 25, 50 and 200 pesos Fuertes (meaning “strong pesos”) which were withdrawn in 1896.

In 1899, Banknotes of the “First Philippines Republic” were contemplated in the denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 Pesos. However, only two denominations viz. 1 and 5 pesos were issued and circulated till 1901.

In 1903, the American Insular Government issued Silver Certificates in the denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 50, 100 and 500 pesos backed by silver coin or gold at a fixed rate of 2:1.

In 1908, the “El Banco Espanol Filipino” was authorised to print Banknotes in the denominations of 5 (“Cinco”), 10 (“Diez”), 20 (“Veinte”), 50 (“Cincuenta”), 100 (“Cien”), and 200 (“Dos Cientos”) with the text printed in Spanish.

In 1912, El Banco Espanol Filipino was renamed as the “Bank of the Philippine Islands” (BPI) and further Banknote issues were in English.

In 1916, the “Phillipine National Bank” (PNB) was created for managing Banknote issues. Under Government authorisation, the PNB issued Banknotes in the denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 pesos. Interestingly, during World War I, the Bank issued emergency Banknotes on Cardboard paper.

In 1918, the Silver Certificates of the American Insular Government were replaced by Treasury Certificates issued by the US Government in the denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 500 Pesos.

In 1942, the Japanese Government of Philippines occupied territories issued the First Series of “Fiat currency” in the denominations of 1, 5, 10 and 50 centavos and 1, 5 and 10 pesos and outlawed the “guerrilla currency”, hitherto in circulation. The Fiat pesos were nicknamed “Mickey Mouse Money” by the unwilling users.

From  1943 to 1945 (end of World War II) , a Second Series of Fiat currency was issued in peso denominations only owing to hyper-inflation viz, 1, 5, 10, 100, 500 and 1000 pesos.

In 1949, the first issues of “Bangko Sentral ng Philipinas” (earlier the “Central Bank of the Philippines”–CBP) were the VICTORY-CBP overprints which were printed over old American period Banknotes.

In 1951, the first official Banknote Series called the “English Series” was issued. These Banknotes were withdrawn in 1960s and 1970s with the last few denominations in circulation being finally withdrawn in 1974. This was the only Banknote Series of the Phillipine Peso to be issued in English only. These Banknotes were issued in the denominations of 5, 10, 20 and 50 centavos and ½, 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 Pesos.

In 1967, the “Philipino Series” was introduced which was the first Series of Banknotes which underwent “Filipinisation” and also, went through a design change. This Series depicted prominent Filipinos on the Front and important/historical events, places etc on the Back. This Series included Banknotes in the denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 Pesos. This Series along with the earlier English Series was completely withdrawn in 1974, through a Presidential decree and all the Banknotes were henceforth to bear the words “ANG BAGONG LIPUNAN” (meaning “New Society”) in the watermark area together with an oval geometric safety design.

From 1973 to 1985, the Ang Bagong Lipunan Series (meaning “New Society) was circulated. These Banknotes were issued in the denominations of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 Pesos.

On 07.09.1978, the Security Printing Plant in Quezon City was set up to print these Banknotes.

These Banknotes were demonetised on 02.02.1993.

The New Design Series (1985 – 1993):

This Series was issued after the enactment of the New Central Bank Act of 1993.

The Front of the 5 Peso Banknote showed a portrait of Emilio Aguinaldo (He was a Filipino general who played an instrumental role during the Philippine’s Revolution against Spain and the subsequent Philippine-American War or War of Philippine Independence that resisted American occupation. He held the positions of President of the Revolutionary Government, President of the Republic of “Biak-na-Bato”, President of the Supreme Government and the first President of the First Republic of Philippines from 23.01.1899 to 01.04.1901). The colour of this Banknote was predominantly green. This Banknote was issued into circulation on 12.06.1985.

The Back of the 5 Peso Banknote depicted the Philippine Declaration of Independence by Emilio Aguinaldo on 12.06.1898.

This denomination is now being issued as 5 Peso coins since 1993 although the circulating 5 Peso Banknotes are still legal tender.

 The Front of the 10 Peso Banknote showed on the left Apolinario Mabini (first Prime Minister and Secretary of Foreign Affairs – from 21.01.1899 to 07.05.1899). He is also, referred to as “the sublime Paralytic” as he was physically handicapped/challenged person) and on the right the Banknote had a portrait of Andres Bonifacio (the founder of the “Katipunam” – KKK – which was a secret society to fight the Spanish Colonial Government). On the right of this face of the Banknote are the “Kartilya ng Katipunam” – a flag of the Katipunam and a letter written by Mabini. The colour of this Banknote was predominantly brown. This Banknote was issued into circulation in late 1985.

The Back of this Banknote showed the Barasoain Church in Malolos, Bulacan, where the first Philippine Congress was held and where the “Malolos Constitution” was drafted. (Barasoain Church, situated in Malalos City, Bulacan, about 40 km. from Manila is also known as “Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish and is a Roman Catholic Church built in 1630. The Church was, inter alia, the scene of 3 important events in Philippine history – the “First Philippine Congress” (15.09.1898), the drafting of the Malolos Constitution (29.09.1898-21.01.1899) and the inauguration of the “First Philippine Republic” (23.01.1899).

This denomination is now being issued as bi-metallic 10 Peso coins since 1997 although the circulating 10 Peso Banknotes are still legal tender.

The Front of the 20 Peso Banknote showed an image of Manuel L. Quezon (first President of the Commonwealth of the Philippines). On the right side of this Banknote are the Coat-of-Arms of the Commonwealth and two notable achievements of Quezon – one, the “Wikang Pambansa” which is “Tagalog” for the National language and two, the “Saligang Batas 1935” or the “1935 Constitution of the Philippines”.

In the centre is the logo of the Bangko Sentral Ng Philipinas and on the right is the emblem of the Commomwealth of Philippines. In the centre bottom is mentioned “Dalawampung Piso” meaning “20 Pesos”. 

(“Tagalog” language is an Austronesian language spoken as the first language by a quarter of Philippine’s population and as a second language by the rest. The word “Tagalog” means “native of a river” or “river dweller”. This language has its origins in Sanskrit, Javanese and Malay. Its standardised form “Filipino” is the National language of the Philippines.) The colour of this Banknote was predominantly orange. This Banknote was released into circulation in 1986.

The Back of the 20 Peso Banknote showed the Malacanan Palace (also known as “Palaso ng Malakanyang”), the residence of the President of the Philippines on the banks of the “Pasig River”.

The Front of the 50 Peso Banknote showed Sergio Osmena (the second President of the “Commonwealth of the Philippines”). This Banknote was predominantly red. This Banknote was released into circulation in 1987. 

Towards the centre of the Banknote is the emblem of the Bangko Sentral Ng Philipinas and on top is mentioned “Republika Ng Philipinas (Republic of Philippines). The denomination of the Banknote is mentioned towards the bottom, as “Lamampung Piso” meaning “50 Pesos”.

The Back of the 50 Peso Banknote showed the former Legislative Building which was renamed the Executive House since the Martial Law period. This building is now converted into the National Art Gallery of the National Museum of the Philippines.

The Front of the 100 Peso Banknote showed Manuel A. Roxas, (first President of the Independent Philippine Republic). On the right side of this Banknote is depicted the raising of the Philippines Flag and lowering of the American Flag on 04.07.1946. The colour of this Banknote is predominantly violet. This Banknote was released into circulation in 1987.

Towards the right is the emblem of the Bangko Sentral Ng Philipinas and the denomination of the Banknote is mentioned towards the bottom, as “Sandaang Piso” meaning “100 Pesos”.

The Back of the 100 Peso Banknote showed the Bangko Sentral building at its Manila location.

The Front of the 200 Peso Banknote had a portrait of Diosdado Macapagal (He was the sixth vice-President from 1957-1961 and then, ninth President of the Philippines from 1961-1965). The Banknote also featured the Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite (This shrine is famous because, this was where the Independence of the Philippines from Spain was declared on 12.06.1898. To commemorate the Independence Day or “Araw ng Kalayaan” the event is still celebrated by raising the Philippine flag on 12^th June every year. The Shrine now has been converted into a Museum).  The colour of this Banknote was predominantly green. This Banknote was released into circulation in 1987.

The Back of the 200 Peso Banknote showed a scene from EDSA Shrine, with Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo being sworn in as the President in January 2001.(The EDSA shrine serves as a memorial to the People Power Revolution. Various works of Art symbolise the spirit of Freedom and peace at the Shrine’s promenade area.  At one end is the “flame of Freedom”, which is a sculpture of three men bearing a cauldron with a  flame over their shoulders, representing Philippine’s three major islands – Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao).

This Banknote was released in 2002 to commemorate Philippines Independence.

The Front of the 500 Peso Banknote showed Benigno Aquino, Jr (a Filipino senator and former Governor of Tarlac. He opposed the Government of President Ferdinand Marcos who imposed Martial Law, but permitted Aquino to travel to the USA for medical treatment. 

He was assassinated upon his return at the Manila International Airport, which resulted in his widow Corazon Aquino coming into prominence and to contest the 1986 Presidential elections). 

On the right of this Banknote are two popular quotes by Aquino: “Faith in our people and faith in God” and “The Filipino is worth dying for” mentioned with his nickname “Ninoy”. There was also a dove signifying peace and a Philippines flag on this face.

The colour of this Banknote was predominantly yellow. This Banknote was released into circulation in 1987.

Also shown on the Banknote is the emblem of the Bangko Sentral Ng Philipinas and the denomination of the Banknote is mentioned towards the bottom, as “Limanaang Piso” meaning “500 Pesos”.

The Back of the 500 Peso Banknote showed a collage of various aspects of Aquino’s life.

The Front of the 1000 Peso Banknote showed portraits of Jose Abad Santos (Chief Justice), Josefa LLanes Escoda (civic worker and one of the founders of Girl Scouts of Philippines) and Vincente Lim (general in the Philippine Army). They were all heroes of the Resistance against the Japanese occupation of the Philippines. Also on this face are seen the eternal flame (signifying the indomitable spirit of freedom), laurel leaves (signifying victory over aggressors/enemies and peace) and the Bank seal. This Banknote was predominantly blue. This Banknote was released into circulation in 1991.

Also shown on the Banknote is the emblem of the Bangko Sentral Ng Philipinas and the denomination of the Banknote is mentioned towards the bottom, as “Sanlibong Piso” meaning “1000 Pesos”.

The Back of the 1000 Peso Banknote depicts the Banaue Rice Terraces, Manunggul Jar cover and Langgal. 

( The “Banaue Rice Terraces” or “Hagdan-hagdang Palayan ng Banawe” are over 2000 year old terraces carved into the mountains of Ifugao Province, in the Philippines, which are irrigated by an ancient irrigation system from rainforests above the terraces and were laid out by the ancestors of the indigenous natives. The Rice Terraces are referred to be Filipinos as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”.

The “Manunggul Jar” or “Nasser Montemayor” is a burial jar excavated from a Neolithic burial site in the Manunggul cave of Lipuun Point, Quezon, Palawan dating back to 890-710 B.C. Two figures on the top of the Jar’s handle represent the soul’s journey to the After-Life. The Jar is a fine piece of Artwork and treated as a National Treasure and is placed in the Museum of the Filipino people).

The Banknotes of the New Design Series have less security features than the later BSP Series. They only have visible red and blue fibres, value panel, security thread and watermark.

The “Bangko Sentral ng Philipinas” or the “BSP Series” (1993 – 2010:

The BSP Series was issued in 1993 when “Banko Sentral ng Philipinas” was re-established as the Central Monetary Authority. It was previously called the “Central Bank of Philippines”. 

Until 2012, the existing Banknotes were still in print which will be withdrawn from circulation in 2013-14.

In 1998, the 100000 Peso Centennial Banknote was issued measuring 8.5”x14.0” which was acclaimed by the Guinness Book of World Records as the World’s largest legal tender. This Banknote was issued in a limited quantity during the celebration of the Centennial of Philippine Independence. Only 1000 pieces of this Banknote were issued.

In 2001, the “Bangko Sentral ng Philipinas” issued upgraded 1000, 500 and 100 Peso Banknotes with new hi-tech security features to combat counterfeiting and the 200 Peso Banknote was added to this list in 2002.

The BSP Series had improved upon the Security Features of the earlier Series by adding another glossy security thread, iridescent strip, fluorescent printing, optically variable ink and microprints.

The “new generation” Banknotes Series (December 2010 onwards):

The new generation Banknotes introduced by the Bangko Sentral ng Philipinas on 16.12.2010 were designed by Studio 5 Designs and Design Systemat. These Banknotes depict famous Filipinos on one face and iconic natural wonders of Philippines on the other face. 

On the Front, the 20 Peso Banknote (the smallest denomination Banknote), shows Manuel L. Quezon, Declaration of Filipino as the National language and the Malacanan Palace. The colour of this Banknote is orange and the size is 160mm x 66 mm.

On the right to centre is the emblem of the Bangko Sentral Ng Philipines logo of the Bangko Sentral Ng Philipinas. In the centre is the emblem or Coat of Arms of Philippines. On the bottom is mentioned “Dalawampung Piso” meaning “20 Pesos”.

On the Back, the 20 Peso Banknote shows Banaue Rice Terraces, Paradoxurus hermaphroditus philippinensis, Palm Civet and Cordilleras weave designs. 

(The Palm Civet is also called a “toddy cat” and is widely found across South and South-East Asia. Their habitat includes evergreen and deciduous forests, plantations and around human settlements. They have a grayish or rusty body, brown or black spots and stripes, a dark mask and a long tail. The head and body are 42 to 71 cm long with a tail of 33 to 66 cm and it has a weight of 2 to 5 kg).

(Cordilleras weave designs: The Cordillera people of Northern Philippines have a tradition of hand-weaving the rich tapestry of their culture and heritage into tight weave designs. Each community group has their respective designs, colours and symbolism seen in their dresses, blankets and tapestry produced on backstrap looms. The designs on the weaves play an important part in their religion and rituals).

On the Front, the 50 Peso Banknote shows Sergio Osmena, the First Philippine Assembly and the Leyte Landing.(The Leyte landing was the amphibious invasion of the Gulf of Leyte in the Philippines by USA and Australia (2,00,000 troops) and Filipinos guerrilla forces (3200 trained guerrillas) to liberate the entire Philippines Archipelago to end almost 3 years of Japanese occupation. The Japanese forces (numbering about 55,000) were almost completely decimated in the three month long campaign lasting from October to December 1944).  The colour of this Banknote is red and its size is 160mm x 66mm.

On the right to centre is the emblem of the Bangko Sentral Ng Philipines logo of the Bangko Sentral Ng Philipinas. In the centre is the emblem or Coat of Arms of Philippines. On the bottom is mentioned “Limampung Piso” meaning “50 Pesos”.

On the Back, the 50 Peso Banknote shows the Taal Lake in Batangas, Caranx Ignobilis, maliputo (Giant trevally and Batangas embroidery design. 

(Taal Lake is a freshwater lake in the province of Batangas on the island of Luzon in the Philippines. The Lake fills the Taal Caldera which is a large volcanic caldera formed by enormous volcanic eruptions between 1,00,000 to 5,00,000 years ago. It is the third largest lake after Laguna de Bay and Lake Lanao. Volcano Island, which is the location of Taal Volcano’s historical eruptions and responsible for the lake’s sulphuric content, lies near the centre of the lake. Volcano Island also has a crater lake which is the World’s largest lake on an island. The Banknote image, also, shows a satellite image of Taal Lake with the Volcano Island within it).

(The Giant Trevally is a species of large marine fish. It is widely distributed in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, stretching from South Africa in the West to Hawaii in the East, Japan in the North and Australia in the South. The Giant Trevally inhabits a wide range of marine environments, from estuaries, shallow bays and lagoons etc. The giant Trevally is an important species for commercial fisheries and a popular game-fish).

On the Front, the 100 Peso Banknote shows Manuel A. Roxas, old BSP Building in Intramuros, Manila and Inauguration of the Third Philippine Republic. The colour of this Banknote is violet and its size is 160mm x 66mm.

On the right to centre is the emblem of the Bangko Sentral Ng Philipines logo of the Bangko Sentral Ng Philipinas. In the centre is the emblem or Coat of Arms of Philippines. On the bottom is mentioned “Sandaang Piso” meaning “100 Pesos”. 

On the Back, the 100 Peso Banknote shows the Mayon Volcano in Albay, “butanding”, “Rhincodon typus”, whale shark and Bicol textile design.

(Mayon Volcano is also known as Mount Mayon is an active volcano in the province of Albay on the island of Luzon in the Philippines. The mountain was first declared as a National Park and protected landscape on 20.07.1938 and renamed as Mayon Volcano Natural Park. It is also called the “Bulkang Mayon” – after the legendary heroine – “Daragang Magayon” or beautiful lady).

(The Whale Shark is a slow moving filter feeding shark and the largest known extant fish species. The average individual can measure a length of 12.65 metres or 41.5 feet and weigh more than 21.5 metric tons or 47,000 pounds. It is the largest living non-mammalian vertebrae. It is found in tropical and warm oceans and can live up to 70 years).

(Bicol Textile design: The term “Bicol” is derived from “Bico”, the name of a river or from the “bikul” or “bikal bamboo tree”. Traditional Arts including jewellery making, carving and weaving have continued for several centuries. Apart from other forms, the art of Abaca weaving has long flourished in this Area. The traditional cloth is hand-woven made of Abaca fibers which traditionally has 3 primary colours – red , black and the original colour of the Abaca leaves).

On the Front, the 200 Peso Banknote shows Diosdada P. Macapagal, EDSA People Power 2001, Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite, Barasoain Church in Malolos, Bulacan. The colour of this Banknote is Green.The size of this Banknote is 160mm x66 mm. 

On the Back, the 200 Peso Banknote shows Chocolate Hills in Bohol, Tarsius syrichta, Philippine tarsier and Visayas weave design.

(Chocolate Hills is a formation of more than 1750 hills spread over 50 sq. kms., in Bohol Province of Philippines. These hills are covered in green grass which turns brown like chocolate during the dry season which gives the hills their name. The Hills are a popular tourist attraction and have been declared the country’s third National Geological Monument).

(The Philippine Tarsier or “mawmag” or “mamag” is found in the southeastern part of the Philippine archipelago, particularly in the islands of Bohol, Samar, Leyte and Mindanao. It derives its name from its elongated “tarsus” or ankle bone. Measuring about 85 to 160 mm in height it is one of the smallest primates).

On the Front, the 500 Peso Banknote shows Corazon C.Aquino (11^th President of the Philippines, and the first woman President in Asia. She is regarded as the “Mother of Philippine democracy”) Benigno S. Aquino, Jr., EDSA People Power I, and Benigno Aquino monument in Makati City. The colour of this Banknote is yellow and its size is 160mm x 66 mm.

On the right to centre is the emblem of the Bangko Sentral Ng Philipines logo of the Bangko Sentral Ng Philipinas. In the centre is the emblem or Coat of Arms of Philippines. On the bottom is mentioned “Limandaang Piso” meaning “500 Pesos”. 

On the Back, the 500 Peso Banknote shows a Subterranean Underground river in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Tanygnathus lucionensis, blue-naped parrot and a Southern Philippines cloth design.

(The Blue-naped parrot is also known as the Blue-crowned Green Parrot, Luzon Parrot or the “Pikoy”. It is found throughout the Philippines including the Talaud Islands and islands off north and east Borneo. It lives mostly in secondary forest, forest edge and plantations. It is about 31 cm., primarily green except for a light blue rear crown and nape, pale blue lower back and rump, scalloped shoulders with orange-brown on black coverts and blackish under-wings with green under-wing coverts).

On the Front, the 1000 Peso Banknote shows images of Jose Abad Santos, Vicente Lim, Josefa Llanes Escoda and the centennial celebration of Philippine Independence in 1998. There is also an image of the Philippine Medal of Honour. The colour of this Banknote is blue. The size of this Banknote is 160 mm x 66 mm.

On the right to centre is the emblem of the Bangko Sentral Ng Philipines logo of the Bangko Sentral Ng Philipinas. In the centre is the emblem or Coat of Arms of Philippines. On the bottom is mentioned “Sanlibong Piso” meaning “1000 Pesos”. 

On the Back the 1000 Peso Banknote shows the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park in Sulu Sea. There is also the Pinctada maxima, the South Sea Pearl and a Mindanao design for T’nalak (ikat-dyed abaca).

(The Tubbataha Reef or “Bahurang Tubbataha” is an atoll coral reef and a Natural Marine Park in the Sulu Sea comprising two huge Atolls – North Atoll and South Atoll. The Reef also has a smaller reef called the Jessie Beazley Reef. The Park has been declared a Maritime Protected area (MPA). In 1993, UNESCO declared the Tubbataha Reefs National Park a World Heritage Site. The Park has over 600 fish species, 360 coral species, 11 shark species, 13 dolphin and whale species and 100 bird species as well as Green Sea turtles.

(The South Sea Pearl is a species of pearl oyster, a marine bivalve mollusc in the in the family Pteriidae, the pearl oysters. They come in two varieties – the white lipped oyster and the gold lipped oyster. These bivalves are the largest pearl oysters in the world and having a very strong inner shell layer composed of nacre known as the “mother of pearl”. They are popular in the cultured pearl industry and used to produce South Sea pearls. Pinctada maxima are found in Australia, Fiji, Tahiti, Indonesia and the Philippines).

(The T’nalak is a traditional cloth found in Mindanao island made by the T’boli people in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. The traditional cloth is hand-woven made of Abaca fibers which traditionally has 3 primary colours – red , black and the original colour of the Abaca leaves).

(These Currency Notes are from the collection of Jayant Biswas. Scanning of Banknotes done and Article researched and written by Rajeev Prasad)

 

112) Swami Vivekananda or “Shami Bibekanando” (in Bengali): Commemorating his 150th Birth Anniversary (12.01.1863 – 04.07.1902): Honouring Prominent Temples and Saints of India:

112) Swami Vivekananda or “Shami Bibekanando” (in Bengali): Commemorating his 150^th Birth Anniversary (12.01.1863 – 04.07.1902): Honouring Prominent Temples and Saints of India:

Swami Vivekananda – the early formative years:

Swami Vivekananda was born in Calcutta (then the capital of British India and present day Kolkata in the Eastern State of West Bengal) on 12.01.1863 in a Bengali Kayastha family. “Vivek” means “wisdom with discretion” and “Anand” means “blissful joy”. His earlier name was Narendra Nath.

Two factors were responsible towards attracting him into spiritual leanings early on in his life and influenced his thinking and personality. One, his grandfather Durgacharan Datta left his family and became a monk at the age of twenty-five. Two, his father Vishvanath Datta had a progressive rational attitude while his mother had a religious temperament.

He was given to meditating from a very early age and spent much time meditating before images of deities like Lord Shiva, Durga, Ram and Sita etc. and was fascinated by wandering monks and saints, in the tradition of his grandfather.

His education:

From 1871 to 1877, he studied at Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar’s Metropolitan Institution.

In 1879, he got first division marks in the Presidency College Entrance examination and was the only candidate to receive the First Division in that year.

His reading interests included Philosophy, Religion, Social science, Art and Literature. He had a very good knowledge of the Hindu scriptures – the Vedas, the Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, Mahabharat, Ramayan and the Purans, Sanskrit scriptures and Bengali Literature. His extra-curricular activities included a training in Indian classical music, sports etc. In addition, he studied the Western logic, Western Philosophy and European History at the “General Assembly’s Institution (later renamed as the “Scottish Church College”). He translated Herbert Spencer’s book “Education” into Bengali.

Commencement of his Spiritual Journey/Search:

He became fascinated with the concept of God and asked various yogis and mendicants and prominent well-read persons, whether they had seen God. He was not satisfied with any of their answers. As part of this search he joined a Freemason lodge and a breakaway faction of the “Brahmo Samaj”. His attraction towards the Brahmo Samaj was through their beliefs in a formless God and shunning of idol worship.

His meeting with Ramakrishna was by providence when his College Principal suggested during a reading of William Wordsworth’s poem “The Excursion” that to understand the true meaning of the term “trance” mentioned in the poem, the students should visit Ramakrishna.

Having thus learnt of Ramakrishna, in November 1881, he visited Dakhineshwar where Ramakrishna stayed and though not convinced with what he saw nevertheless was drawn by Ramakrishna’s personality. He asked Ramakrishna “Sir, have you seen God?” to which Ramakrishna immediately replied “Yes, I have. I see Him as clearly as I see you, only in a much intenser sense”.

Narendra was intrigued by this answer and later visited Ramakrishna several times. He was initially not convinced about Ramakrishna’s level of spiritual achievements terming his trance – like conditions, visions and ecstasies as mere hallucination and figments of imagination. As a follower of the Brahmo Samaj, Narendra Nath was opposed to Ramakrishna’s worship of the Goddess Kali and rejected the “Advaita Vedanta” of identifying with the Absolute as blasphemy. To all his doubts Ramakrishna would simply ask him to look at issues from all angles with a holistic approach.

In 1984, upon the sudden passing away of his father, Narendra Nath’s family fell upon financial difficulties and he started visiting Ramakrishna more and more seeking solace. It was around this time that he realised that he was ready to embrace spirituality and accept Ramakrishna as his guru, after renouncing everything else in the material world.

In 1885, Ramakrishna suffered from throat cancer and was looked after by his disciples during his last days at Cossipore where he was evacuated to. During this time Ramakrishna conferred the ochre robes on his disciples thus forming his first monastic order.

Narendra was appointed the leader of the monastic group, and was taught among other things by Ramakrishna, that, the service to human beings was the most effective way to worship God. Shortly thereafter, Ramakrishna passed away on 16.08.1886.

Setting up of the First Ramakrishna Math at Baranagar:

The monks led by Narendra found it very difficuly to sustain themselves as the financial donations from the admirers of Ramakrishna petered off after his passing away. Many members of the monastic order left the group, disillusioned with their prospects in continuing with the group in the absence of Ramakrishna and the ensuing hardships.

Narendra was left with no alternative but to convert a dilapidated house into a new Ramakrishna Math for the remaining disciples.

In 1887, Narendra together with 8 disciples took formal monastic vows and the name “Swami Bibidishananda” which was changed to “Vivekananda” in 1893 at the instance of Maharaja Ajit Singh of Khetri. 

In 1888, Swami Vivekananda left the monastery as a “Parivrajaka” (or a wandering monk), his sole possessions being a “Kamandalu (a water pot), a staff and two books – the “Bhagavad Gita” and “The imitation of Christ”.

From 1888 to 1893, he travelled extensively throughout India visiting centres of learning and acquainting himself with the diverse religious traditions and social customs. During his travels he met and stayed with Indians from all religions and walks of life: scholars, prominent officials, Princes, Kings, Hindus, Muslims, Christians, low-caste workers etc. 

Visit to the USA to attend the Parliament of World Religions:

In 1893, he visited several cities in Japan enroute to attend the Parliament of the World Religions in Chicago held from 11.09.1893 to 27.09.1893, but he was disappointed on reaching USA to learn that his participation as a delegate would have to be sponsored by a “bona fide” organisation. 

In the interim, he was invited to speak at Harvard University at the instance of Prof. John Wright, who urged Vivekananda to attend the Chicago Conference and took the help of his friends to have Vivekananda nominated to attend the Parliament.

On the opening day of the Parliament of the World Religions at the Art Institute of Chicago Vivekananda gave a short introductory speech introducing India and Hinduism. He began with the words “Sisters and brothers of America”, an introduction which gave him a two-minute standing ovation from the gathered delegates numbering about 7000. 

Thereafter he proceeded to address the “youngest of the Nations” (USA) on behalf of the “most ancient order of monks in the World, the Vedic order of Sannyasins, a religion which has taught the World both tolerance and universal acceptance”. 

He quoted two illustrative passages from the “Shiva mahimna stotram”: “As the different streams having their sources in different places all mingle their water in the sea, so O Lord, the different paths which men take, through different tendencies, various though they appear, crooked or straight, all lead to thee!!” and “Whosoever comes to Me, through whatsoever form, I reach him; all men are struggling through paths that in the end lead to Me”. 

This short address voiced the essence of the universality of the Parliament and was very well received.

The Parliament President John Henry Burrows showered praises upon him addressing him as the “Orange-monk” and stating that India, the “Mother of all Religions” was wonderfully represented by Swami Vivekananda. 

The Newspapers led by the New York Critique, the New York Herald and the Boston Evening Transcript wrote extensive articles on him mentioning him variously as “the cyclonic monk from India”, “an orator by divine right” , “the greatest figure in the Parliament of World Religions”, “a great favourite at the Parliament – if he merely crosses the platform, he is applauded”. The New York Herald went to the extent of inter alia, mentioning that “After hearing him we feel how foolish it is to send missionaries to this learned nation”.

Vivekananda addressed the Parliament several times thereafter with the main focus of his speeches being the common theme of universality and religious tolerance. 

After gaining immense popularity, Vivekananda spent the next 2 years lecturing in the USA mainly in Chicago, Detroit, Boston and New York. He was offered academic positions in the area of Eastern Philosophy at the Harvard University and Columbia University, both positions which he declined as he had declared himself a wandering monk. 

In 1894, he founded the “Vedanta Society” of New York.

Also, in 1893, when he travelled together with Jamshetji Tata from Yokohama to Chicago, he inspired Tata to set up a a research and educational institution “Research Institute of Science”.

During 1895 to 1896, he travelled to England twice and several European countries giving several addresses/discourses. Several prominent persons in the USA and Europe/U.K. became his ardent admirers and several others became his disciples/followers.

In 1897, he founded the Ramakrishna Mission in Calcutta for rendering social service. The mission’s ideals are based on “karma yoga” and it is managed/governed by the trustees of Ramakrishna Math having their headquarters at Belur Math near Calcutta all having been founded by him.

In the same year, he also founded two other monasteries one called the “Advaitya Ashram” at Mayavati near Almora (in the present State of Uttarakhand, India) in the Himalayas and the other in Madras (present day Chennai in the present State of Tamil Nadu, India).

In 1899, the Baranagar Math was shifted to Belur and is called the “Belur Math”.

During 1899-1902, despite declining health (owing to asthma, diabetes and chronic insomnia), he visited the USA, England, France, Egypt, Turkey, etc. He could not attend the Congress of Religions in 1901 in Japan due to his failing health.

Death and Legacy:

Even on the day he passed away (04.07.1902), he meditated at the chapel at Belur Math for three hours and thereafter taught “Shukla-Yajur-Veda”, Sanskrit grammer and philosophy to students. Later, he discussed with his colleagues plans to set up a Vedic College at the Ramakrishna Math. He retired for the night at 7.00 p.m. and attained “mahasamadhi” (eternal sleep) at 9.10 p.m.

He revitalised Hinduism in India and abroad and contributed to the popularity of yoga, transcendental meditation and spiritual self-improvement in the Western World as  well as introduced them to the Indian philosophy of Vedanta.

He focussed on interfaith awareness and in bringing Hinduism to be recognised as a major world religion during the late 19^th century as well as the concept of Nationalism in British India.

The Nationalist movement during the British Raj received an impetus as his concepts crystallised the Nationalistic ideals. He propounded that addressing the poverty of the teeming millions in India was a prerequisite for national awakening. He thus gave the National movement in India a new colour and perspective. Sri Aurobindo considered him to be the one who awakened India spiritually. He inspired several Freedom fighters through his concepts and ideals. Mahatma Gandhi regarded him as the monk who “maintained Hindu religion by cutting down the deadwood of tradition”.

He influenced several leading Western personalities,  with his Vedic teachings.

A section of Michigan Avenue, a major thoroughfare in Chicago has been named “Swami Vivekananda Way”.

The West Bengal State Police Academy has been named after him.

The State Technical University in Chhatisgarh has been named after him.

In India, he is regarded as a patriotic saint and his birthday (12^th January) is celebrated as “National Youth Day”.

His beliefs and teachings:

He believed that a country’s future depended on its people, therefore, his teachings focussed primarily on human development.

He wanted to share noble thoughts and concepts with the poorest and the meanest persons in the hope that a sea change in their thinking would bring about advancement for the country at the macro-level.

He believed that the essence of Hinduism was best embodied in the Vedanta philosophy as described by Adi Shankracharya. He believed that every soul was divine and that the goal was to manifest this divinity within by controlling nature – both external and internal through work, worship or mental discipline or philosophy by one or all of these methods for the soul to be free. All doctrines, dogmas, rituals, books, places of worship etc. were secondary to this primary goal.

He believed that morality is controlled by the mind and truth, purity and unselfishness strengthened morality.

He supported “brahmacharya” (celibacy) believing that it was the source of one’s physical and mental stamina and eloquence. He believed that success would come only through focussed thought and action.

He believed that all sects within Hinduism are but different paths towards the same goal.

Swami Vivekananda’s books and literature:

He was a prolific writer both in Bengali and English. Most of his published works were compilations of his lectures/discourses around the World. He is also credited with composing several songs and poems on the Mother Goddess Kali. He believed that words should clarify ideas rather than demonstrate the speaker’s prowess/knowledge and his writings and speeches testify to that effect. He composed “Khandana Bhava-Banbhana” a prayer song dedicated to Ramakrishna (1898).

He also started two journals – “Prabuddha Bharata” in English and “Udbodhan” in Bengali.

Several books were published during his lifetime – Karma Yoga (1896), Raja Yoga (1896/1899), Vedanta Philosophy: An address before the Graduate Philosophical Society (1896), Lectures from Colombo to Almora (1897), Bartaman Bharat (in Bengali, meaning “Present day India” 1899), My Master (1901), Vedanta Philosophy :lectures on Jnana Yoga 

 (1902) etc.

Some books published after his passing away include “Addresses on Bhakti Yoga”, “The East and the West”, “Narada Bhakti Sutras”, “Para Bhakti or Supreme Devotion”, Practical Vedanta, Jnana Yoga, Speeches of Swami Vivekananda : a comprehensive collection, Complete Works: a collection of his writings, lectures and discourses (9 volumes) etc.

Celebrating his 150^th birth Anniversary in 2013:

Year –long celebrations, events and programmes are being organised by branches of the Ramakrishna Math, the Ramakrishna Mission, Central and State Governments in India, educational institutions and youth groups.

A Swami Vivekananda Values Education Project has been launched in 2010, with the objectives of involving youth with competitions, essays, discussions and study circles as well as publishing Vivekananda’s works in several languages, all of which are being given an impetus during the celebrations.

A film titled “The Light: Swami Vivekananda” has been made by a Bengali film Director “Tutu” (Utpal) Sinha for this occasion.

The year 2013 is being observed as a commemorative year for his 150^th Birth Anniversary by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

The Indian Railways ran a special exhibition on Swami Vivekananda aboard a special train which stopped at several important towns across India.

We visited this exhibition when the Train stopped at Pune for a couple of days. Supported by the local branch of the Ramakrishna mission, we were treated to visual display boards of his life and times, his beliefs, quotations and his works and published works on him which were indeed  a wonderful treat.

The Commemorative coins issued on the occasion:

Kolkata Mint has brought out a two – coin commemorative set for this occasion. A Rs.150/- coin together with a Rs.5/- coin have been released both as Proof and Circulating coin sets. In addition it has been announced by the Reserve Bank of India in mid-July 2013 that a five rupee circulating coin is also being issued for this occasion. 

I have received the two coin proof commemorative coin set from the Kolkata mint within two months of close of Bookings for these coin sets, which shows the remarkable levels of efficiency achieved by the Kolkata Mint in scaling down the delivery schedules from 6-8 months earlier on and setting an example for the other Mints to follow.

The above image is that of the cover of the two-coin Proof set album, showing a familiar image of Swami Vivekananda. To the bottom right is a tag indicating that this is a “Proof set”.

 The inner cover (second page) shows two pictures of Swami Vivekananda in his familiar orange robes.

 The obverse faces of the 2 coins showing their denominational values Rs.150/- and Rs.5/- as the coins appear on the coin album. The lower left hand corner of this page indicates Swami Vivekananda’s life period 1863-1902.

 The reverse faces of the 2 coins as they appear on the coin album. The lower right hand corner of this page indicates Swami Vivekananda’s life period 1863-1902.

Obverse of the Rs 150/- (Rupees One hundred and fifty) coin showing the Lion Capitol in the top centre with the words “Satyameva Jayate” (Truth always prevails) in Hindi/Devnagri inscribed below it, below which is the denominational value of the coin preceded by the rupee symbol. On the left periphery is the name of the country “Bharat” (in Hindi/Devnagri) and on the right periphery is mentioned “India” (in English).

   Reverse of the Rs 150/- (Rupees One hundred and fifty) coin showing a portrait of Swami Vivekananda in the centre wearing his customary (orange) robe.  On either side of his portrait are mentioned his life years “1863” and “1902”. On the left periphery of the coin is mentioned “Swami Vivekananda” in Hindi, below which is mentioned “150vin Jayanti” also in Hindi. On the right periphery starting from the top of the coin is mentioned “Swami Vivekananda” and starting from the bottom periphery is mentioned “150 Birth Anniversary” in English.

Obverse of the Rs 5/- (Rupees five) coin showing the Lion Capitol in the top centre with the words “Satyameva Jayate” (Truth always prevails) in Hindi/Devnagri inscribed below it, below which is the denominational value of the coin preceded by the rupee symbol. On the left periphery is the name of the country “Bharat” (in Hindi/Devnagri) and on the right periphery is mentioned “India” (in English).

 Reverse of the Rs 5/- (Rupees five) coin showing a portrait of Swami Vivekananda in the centre wearing his customary (orange) robe.  On either side of his portrait are mentioned his life years “1863” and “1902”. On the left periphery of the coin is mentioned “Swami Vivekananda” in Hindi, below which is mentioned “150vin Jayanti” also in Hindi. On the right periphery starting from the top of the coin is mentioned “Swami Vivekananda” and starting from the bottom periphery is mentioned “150 Birth Anniversary” in English.

The specifications of these two coins are as under:

a)   The Rupees 150 coin:

Shape: Circular;

Diameter/size: 44 mm;

No. of serrations: 200;

Weight: 35 gms.;

Metal composition: Quaternary Alloy (silver: 50%, copper: 40%, nickel: 5%, Zinc: 5%).

b)   The Rupees 5 coin:

Shape: Circular;

Diameter/size: 23 mm;

No. of serrations: 100;

Weight: 6 gms.;

Metal composition: Nickel Brass (copper: 75%, zinc: 20%, nickel:

5 %,).

Something is missing on the Commemorative coin album and the Rs.150/- Commemorative coin?

a)   Perhaps, the coin album could have contained a small/brief narration on Swami Vivekananda’s life and his work for information.

b)   Also, while in Hindi/Devnagri the period under commemoration has been mentioned correctly as “150vin Jayanti” it has been mentioned in English as “150 Birth Anniversary” instead of “150^th” Birth Anniversary. The “th” seems to be missing which may have been due to space constraints on the coin.

 Posted on 22.11.13:

 Reverse of a circulating five rupee coin issued on the occasion, acquired by me in a Coin exhibition, by paying a premium, as five rupee commemorative coins are very hard to come by in Pune, or any five rupee coins for that matter.

Obverse of the above five rupee coin.

This coin exhibits the same features as the five rupee Proof coin and has the same specifications.

Stamps by India Post:

 India Post has brought out these beautiful stamps on various important aspects of Swami Vivekananda's life to commemorate his 150th Birth Anniversary. The above is an image of a miniature stamp sheet which, too,  I have acquired today. 

Post Script:

Swami Vivekananda's selected Speeches/lectures at The World Parliament of Religions, Chicago:

WELCOME ADDRESS - Chicago, Sept 11, 1893:

“Sisters and Brothers of America,

It fills my heart with joy unspeakable to rise in response to the warm and cordial welcome which you have given us. I thank you in the name of the most ancient order of monks in the world; I thank you in the name of the mother of religions, and I thank you in the name of millions and millions of Hindu people of all classes and sects.

My thanks, also, to some of the speakers on this platform who, referring to the delegates from the Orient, have told you that these men from far-off nations may well claim the honour of bearing to different lands the idea of toleration. 

I am proud to belong to a religion which has taught the world both tolerance and universal acceptance. We believe not only in universal toleration, but we accept all religions as true. I am proud to belong to a nation which has sheltered the persecuted and the refugees of all religions and all nations of the earth. I am proud to tell you that we have gathered in our bosom the purest remnant of the Israelites, who came to Southern India and took refuge with us in the very year in which their holy temple was shattered to pieces by Roman tyranny. I am proud to belong to the religion which has sheltered and is still fostering the remnant of the grand Zoroastrian nation. 

I will quote to you, brethren, a few lines from a hymn which I remember to have repeated from my earliest boyhood, which is every day repeated by millions of human beings: "As the different streams having their sources in different paths which men take through different tendencies, various though they appear, crooked or straight, all lead to Thee."

The present convention, which is one of the most august assemblies ever held, is in itself a vindication, a declaration to the world of the wonderful doctrine preached in the Gita: "Whosoever comes to Me, through whatsoever form, I reach him; all men are struggling through paths which in the end lead to me." 

Sectarianism, bigotry, and its horrible descendant, fanaticism, have long possessed this beautiful earth. They have filled the earth with violence, drenched it often and often with human blood, destroyed civilization and sent whole nations to despair. Had it not been for these horrible demons, human society would be far more advanced than it is now. But their time is come; and I fervently hope that the bell that tolled this morning in honour of this convention may be the death-knell of all fanaticism, of all persecutions with the sword or with the pen, and of all uncharitable feelings between persons wending their way to the same goal.”

IN HIS ADDRESS dated 15 September 1893:

Swami Vivekananda referred to the so­ called differences between the various faiths, often exaggerated, comparing the narrow perceptions to the world ­views of the frogs in the well. Putting it in his own characteristically pictur­esque way, he observed: 

        “I am a Hindu. I am sitting in my own little well and thinking that the whole world is my little well. The Christian sits in his little well and thinks the whole world is his well. The Mohammedan sits in his little well and thinks that is the whole world. I have to thank you of America for the great attempt you are making to break down the barriers of this little world of ours, and hope that, in the future, the Lord will help you to accomplish your pur­pose.”

CONCLUDING ADDRESS - Chicago, Sept 27, 1893:

“The World's Parliament of Religions has become an accomplished fact, and the merciful Father has helped those who laboured to bring it into existence, and crowned with success their most unselfish labour.

My thanks to those noble souls whose large hearts and love of truth first dreamed this wonderful dream and then realized it. My thanks to the shower of liberal sentiments that has overflowed this platform. My thanks to this enlightened audience for their uniform kindness to me and for their appreciation of every thought that tends to smooth the friction of religions. A few jarring notes were heard from time to time in this harmony. My special thanks to them, for they have, by their striking contrast, made general harmony the sweeter.

Much has been said of the common ground of religious unity. I am not going just now to venture my own theory. But if anyone here hopes that this unity will come by the triumph of any one of the religions and the destruction of the others, to him I say, "Brother, yours is an impossible hope." Do I wish that the Christian would become Hindu? God forbid. Do I wish that the Hindu or Buddhist would become Christian? God forbid.

The seed is put in the ground, and earth and air and water are placed around it. Does the seed become the earth, or the air, or the water? No. It becomes a plant. It develops after the law of its own growth, assimilates the air, the earth, and the water, converts them into plant substance, and grows into a plant.
Similar is the case with religion. The Christian is not to become a Hindu or a Buddhist, nor a Hindu or a Buddhist to become a Christian. But each must assimilate the spirit of the others and yet preserve his individuality and grow according to his own law of growth.

If the Parliament of Religions has shown anything to the world, it is this: It has proved to the world that holiness, purity and charity are not the exclusive possessions of any church in the world, and that every system has produced men and women of the most exalted character. 

In the face of this evidence, if anybody dreams of the exclusive survival of his own religion and the destruction of the others, I pity him from the bottom of my heart, and point out to him that upon the banner of every religion will soon be written in spite of resistance: "Help and not fight," "Assimilation and not Destruction," "Harmony and Peace and not Dissension".

Posted on 14.03.2015:

A Commemorative Coin issued by the Hyderabad Mint booked in August 2014, has been received by me today from the Mint.

The cover of the album on which is shown an image Swami Vivekananda. On the top of the album is mentioned “Smarak Sikka” in Hindi and “Commemorative Coin” in English. Also mentioned on this cover is “Swami Vivekananda Ki 150vin Jayanti” (in Hindi) and “150^th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda” (in English).

On the second page of the album, inter alia, is a description of the life of Swami Vivekananda, which is as follows:

“Swami Vivekananda was born in Kolkata on 12^th January 1863. The real name of swami Vivekananda was Narendranath Dutta. He was a saint, philosopher and one of the prominent leaders of the Indian religions and one of the most influential spiritual leaders of Vedanta philosophy and Yoga to the western World. He was the chief disciple of Ramakrishna Paramahansa and was the founder of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission. He is perhaps best known for his inspiring speech beginning with “Sisters and Brothers of America” through which he introduced Hinduism at the Parliament of the world’s Religions in Chicago in 1893. Swami Vivekananda declared that Indian culture was based on spiritualism while the basis of western culture was materialism. Swami Vivekananda’s birthday is celebrated as the National Youth Day. “

The coins commemorating the 150^th Birth Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda were released on 12.01.2013.

Obverse of the Rupees Five Commemorative coin. In the Centre is the Lion Capitol of Emperor Asoka with the legend “Satyameva Jayate” in Hindi meaning “Truth always Prevails” which is the emblem of the Government of India. On the left periphery is mentioned “Bharat” (in Hindi) and on the right periphery is mentioned “India” (in English). The denomination of the coin “Rs.5” is at the extreme bottom.

Reverse of the Rupees Five Commemorative coin. In the centre is an image of Swami Vivekananda. On either side of his image are his life years “1863- 1902”. On the left periphery is mentioned “Swami Vivekananda*150vin Jayanti” in Hindi. On the right periphery is mentioned “Swami Vivekananda * 150 Birth Anniversary” in English.

Above this inscription and below Swami Vivekananda’s portrait is the “Star” mint mark of the Hyderabad Mint.

The specifications of this coin are:

Denomination: Rs. Five; Metal Composition: Alloy Ni-Brass; Copper: 75%, Zinc: 20%, Nickel: 5%; Dimensions: Diameter: 23 mm; Weight: 6.00 gms.