Latest news with #Indo-Greek
Hindustan Times
01-07-2025
- Science
- Hindustan Times
Archaeologists uncover coin moulds linked to ancient Greek king Apollodotus 2
A handful of old, clay moulds found by archaeologists during excavations at Amba Ghat in the historic town of Vadnagar in Gujarat have opened up an unlikely window into India's ancient past. What is interesting is that these moulds were used to make coins, possibly of silver, but not a single coin was found along with them. What is even more interesting though is that these moulds are connected to Apollodotus II, who belonged to the Indo-Greek dynasty which ruled parts of northwestern India more than 2,000 years ago between the 2nd and 1st centuries BCE. Apollodotus II is known for issuing bilingual coins with Greek and Kharosthi (script) inscriptions called drachmas, which had high silver content and were used in ancient trade especially along the western coast of India. The research – carried out by archaeologists Abhijit Ambekar from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI); Abhijit Dandekar from the archaeology department of Deccan College Pune; and Disha Seth from 2016 to 2023 with the findings published in 2024–2025 –raises big questions like why were the coins issued by a long dead king being made centuries later, that too in Gujarat, far away from what was once his kingdom. (HT PHOTO) Then again, the clay moulds were discovered in layers of soil that date back to around the 5th century CE which is at least 500 years after Apollodotus II's death. This has led the archaeologists to believe that the coins made using these clay moulds might have been fake coins made long after the originals were no longer available. The research – carried out by archaeologists Abhijit Ambekar from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI); Abhijit Dandekar from the archaeology department of Deccan College Pune; and Disha Seth from 2016 to 2023 with the findings published in 2024–2025 –raises big questions like why were the coins issued by a long dead king being made centuries later, that too in Gujarat, far away from what was once his kingdom. Dandekar told Hindustan Times, 'A total of 37 clay coin moulds were found during excavations at Vadnagar's Amba Ghat area. These moulds would have been used to make coins, likely made of silver. Strangely however, not a single coin was found with the moulds.' The researchers/archaeologists believe that Vadnagar might have been a local hub where these coins were reproduced, possibly to meet ongoing demand in trade markets. The moulds found show signs of reuse and some have double impressions, meaning that more than one coin could be cast at once. According to the research, the clay used in these moulds might have come from outside Vadnagar, or it may have changed due to the high heat involved in making the coins which suggests that some technical knowledge was used in this process. Dandekar said, 'The researchers believe that Vadnagar may have been a centre for coin reproduction, particularly of coins that were once popular in long-distance trade. The presence of clay moulds suggests cast coin production, which could indicate attempts to supply the market with replicas when genuine coins became rare.' Furthermore, the study reinforces Gujarat's deep-rooted connection with the ancient sea trade. Classical texts such as the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea mention Barygaza or modern-day Bharuch in Gujarat. 'Old Greek travel texts like the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea even mention Apollodotus's coins being used in Bharuch, a major port in Gujarat. A large horde of such coins was found earlier in Ghogha, a coastal village nearby,' Dandekar shared. According to the study, the persistence of Apollodotus's coins in trade long after his dynasty had faded shows how coinage, especially silver coinage, remained valuable across centuries and regions. Co-author Ambekar said, 'Even without finding the coins, these moulds tell us a lot about the trade and economy of that time. The discovery of Indo-Greek coin moulds in Vadnagar suggests that these coins were likely preferred for trade exchanges, especially due to international commercial connections from Bharuch. Their continued circulation till the 5th or 6th century CE could be one reason for their reproduction, as indicated by the coin moulds found at the site.' Co-author Seth said, 'Original coins were never made using moulds. The discovery of coin moulds in Vadnagar is significant and gives us a deeper understanding of Gujarat's history. This find adds new importance to the region, especially Vadnagar, where the shell industry was also flourishing. These coin moulds were found nearly 500 years after the original coins were in use, which gives them historical value. Originally, coins were produced using the punch-marking, die-striking and casting methods. But the moulds we discovered suggest that people in Vadnagar may have found the original coins and used them as models to create new moulds.'
Time of India
30-06-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Modi's Vadnagar has 2,500-year-old global connect; Gujarat town was minting Greek coins centuries later, says study
Vadnagar, a small town in north Gujarat, continues to surprise historians and archaeologists. According to a TOI report, during a decade-long excavation from 2014 to 2024, researchers uncovered 37 terracotta coin moulds , used not for local rulers, but for Indo-Greek king Apollodotus II. What puzzled experts was the timing: the moulds dated between the 5th and 10th centuries CE, whereas the actual coins were originally minted around the 1st–2nd centuries CE. Dr Abhijit Ambekar, superintending archaeologist with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), who worked on the site, explained: 'Gujarat was a key trade hub for the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean. While many silver Indo-Greek coins , especially Drachmas, have been found before, it's rare to find moulds like these.' Unlike traditional die-struck coins, these moulds suggest the coins were being cast. So why were they being made centuries after the fall of the Indo-Greek kingdoms? 'One theory is that the Drachma stayed popular as trade currency, both on land and sea. Its continued demand could have led to reproductions. Bharuch, a major port of that time, was part of this network,' said Ambekar. The study was done in collaboration with Dr Abhijit Dandekar of Deccan College. The findings were among four key studies presented at the 10th World Archaeological Congress in Darwin, Australia, which ended on Saturday. The theme tying all the studies together? Vadnagar's global connections and continuous importance for over 2,500 years. Other studies explored: Live Events An elliptical structure found in Vadnagar, similar to ones in the Gangetic plains. Earthquake-resistant building techniques, like timber bonding, where wood is placed between stones to cushion seismic shock. This technique is also seen in West Asia. Urban planning, showing how the town evolved from the Kshatrapa era to British times. Adaptation to drought, where locals interlinked water bodies and even changed their diet for survival. Artefacts like Indo-Pacific beads, shell bangles, torpedo jars, and coins from multiple cultures confirm Vadnagar's role as a production hub and land port, or sthalpattan. Inputs from TOI
Time of India
29-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Vadnagar minted Greek coins and learnt quake resistance from W Asia
Ahmedabad: During the excavation at Vadnagar, which lasted for a decade from 2014 to 2024, one of the finds that surprised the archaeologists was 37 terracotta coin moulds. These were not of local powers; instead, they were for the coins of the Indo-Greek monarch Apollodotus II. What surprised the experts was the fact that the period it corresponded to in Vadnagar's 2,500-year-long continuous history was the 5th to 10th centuries CE, whereas the coins in their original form were minted in the 1st-2nd centuries CE. Dr Abhijit Ambekar, superintending archaeologist with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), who worked on the site for the decade, said that Gujarat, being an important trade hub for the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean, has yielded a good number of silver Indo-Greek coins, identified as Drachma. "But it is a rare instance of finding moulds. Compared to original die-struck coins, the moulds indicate a cast method of minting. One theory of the find nearly three centuries after the demise of Apollodotus II is that Drachma remained a power currency in trade both through land and sea and remained in demand, prompting its production. Bharuch was a major port of that era," said Ambekar, adding that the production of coinage continued even after the end of the Indo-Greek kingdoms. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo "The discovery establishes Vadnagar as an important hub of trade." The study was carried out with Abhijit Dandekar of Deccan College Postgraduate and Research Institute. You Can Also Check: Ahmedabad AQI | Weather in Ahmedabad | Bank Holidays in Ahmedabad | Public Holidays in Ahmedabad It was one of the four studies related to Vadnagar presented at the tenth edition of the prestigious World Archaeological Congress in Darwin, Australia, which concluded on Saturday. What connected these studies was the north Gujarat town's antiquity and its interconnectedness with other parts of India and the world. Some other presentations included the continuity of the ancient town over 2,500 years, an elliptical structure found in the town reminiscent of similar structures in the Gangetic plains, and timber bonding techniques in architecture for earthquake resistance by Dr Ambekar, Ananya Chakraborty, assistant archaeologist at ASI, and others. Experts said that the common thread that connects the papers includes how the ancient town remained relevant for over two millennia. "For example, in the case of timber bonding – a technique where timber or wood is inserted at regular intervals between stones as a cushion against quakes, is seen in some parts of West Asia," said a researcher. The ancient town has yielded artefacts such as Indo-Pacific beads and shell bangles, establishing it as a production centre, along with hordes of coins, cowries, and artefacts such as torpedo jars, underlining its place as sthalpattan or land port. The presentations also focused on the town planning of Vadnagar, its different development phases from the Kshatrapa period to the British period, and how the town overcame intense periods of drought with water body interlinking and even changing diet completely for decades.
NDTV
10-06-2025
- NDTV
5 Fascinating Countries You'd Never Guess Have Deep Indian Roots
Quick Read Summary is AI generated, newsroom reviewed. From Suriname's Indian diaspora to Japan's Buddhist roots, this story uncovers five countries with strong Indian ties. Think shared cuisine with Mexico, Indo-Greek kingdoms, and Uzbekistan's Mughal link—proof that India's global influence runs deep. India's cultural influence stretches far beyond the obvious. Beyond Bollywood and butter chicken, centuries of trade, migration, and spiritual exchange have connected India with places you'd never expect. From royal ancestry in Central Asia to Indian languages spoken in South America, the global Indian imprint is both deep and surprising. These five countries might not seem connected to India at first glance, but their histories reveal surprising ties — some ancient, others modern — that are still alive today. If you thought Indian culture was confined to the subcontinent, these unexpected global connections might just change your perspective. Here Are 5 Surprising Countries With Fascinating Indian Connections: You might think Mexico and India only have spicy food in common — but the connection runs deeper. During the Spanish colonial period, Mexican chillies, vanilla, and chocolate made their way to India via Portuguese traders. In return, Indian spices like black pepper and cardamom reached Latin America, influencing local cuisine. But that's not all. Both cultures place heavy emphasis on family, religion, and holistic living — think Ayurveda and curanderismo (Mexican traditional healing). Here's a mind-blower: The Mexican state of Oaxaca has a Day of India every August, celebrating Indian culture with food festivals, dance performances, and yoga workshops. There's even a statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Mexico City — one of over 70 around the world. India and Mexico also celebrate more than 70 years of diplomatic relations, with shared interests in science, technology, and cinema. 2. Japan: Spiritual Ties And A Surprising Tamil Link India and Japan go way back — think 6th century AD — when Buddhism first travelled to Japan via China and Korea, but originated in India. Japanese monks often visit Bodh Gaya, the birthplace of Buddhism, as a pilgrimage. But the ties don't stop at religion. Here's where it gets interesting: In the 1900s, Tamil freedom fighter Rash Behari Bose found refuge in Japan after being hunted by British authorities in India. He ended up marrying a Japanese woman, starting a family, and helping set up the Indian National Army during World War II. There's even a memorial dedicated to him in Tokyo. Culturally, India's ancient texts influenced Japanese thought through Buddhist scriptures, and Japan has reciprocated with anime and J-pop fandoms growing steadily in India. It's a quiet but enduring connection. 3. Greece: Philosophy, Trade, And Indo-Greek Kings The Indo-Greek connection isn't just academic jargon — it's real, and it's ancient. After Alexander the Great invaded parts of northwest India in 326 BCE, Indo-Greek kingdoms sprang up in the region (modern-day Afghanistan and Pakistan). These kings, like Menander I, ruled for nearly two centuries and blended Greek and Indian cultures. Ever seen those coins with Greek and Sanskrit inscriptions? That's Indo-Greek influence right there. The fusion even extended to religion. Some scholars argue that Hellenistic art heavily shaped Gandhara art, the Buddhist art form that emerged in India and became widespread in Central Asia. And it's not just about ancient history — India and Greece maintain strong modern diplomatic ties, and in recent years, there's been an uptick in Indian weddings held in Santorini. If that's not cultural crossover, what is? 4. Suriname: Bhojpuri Culture In South America Suriname, a tiny country tucked in the northeastern coast of South America, has one of the largest Indian-origin populations outside India — descendants of indentured labourers brought by the Dutch between 1873 and 1916. Today, nearly 27% of the population is of Indian origin, primarily Bhojpuri-speaking Hindustanis. Hindi is taught in schools, Indian festivals like Diwali are national holidays, and Bollywood is massively popular. Former President Chandrikapersad Santokhi is of Indian descent and even took his oath of office in Sanskrit. The cuisine is a wild but delicious mix — think roti with peanut sauce, or biryani made with South American peppers. Indian-Surinamese identity is its own rich hybrid that's both familiar and entirely unique. 5. Uzbekistan: Silk Road Legacies And A Shared Hero Uzbekistan and India may seem worlds apart, but the connection is strong, especially when it comes to the Mughal dynasty. Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, was born in Andijan, Uzbekistan. His memoir, the Baburnama, offers vivid accounts of his early life in Central Asia before he moved south to conquer northern India in the 16th century. And the cultural exchanges didn't stop with the Mughals. Through the Silk Road, spices, textiles, and ideas flowed both ways. Indian merchants set up trade routes through Samarkand and Bukhara, which were major commercial hubs. Today, Uzbekistan is cashing in on this shared history — offering "Babur heritage tours" to Indian tourists and preserving Mughal-era manuscripts in their archives. The countries even launched direct flights between Delhi and Tashkent to make travel easier.
The Print
04-06-2025
- Business
- The Print
Greek-Indian 'Eutopia' Marks a New Chapter in Greek-Indian Manpower Mobility
Athens [Greece], June 4: In a landmark step toward strengthening ethical and structured manpower mobility between Greece and India, the event titled 'Eutopia – Greek-Indian Cooperation in Labour: A Comprehensive Program' was successfully held on Friday, May 30, 2025, at the Caravel Hotel, Athens. Organised under the aegis of the Hellenic Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the high-level gathering brought together Greek government officials, institutional stakeholders, legal experts, licensed recruitment professionals, and representatives from India to discuss the operationalisation of bilateral recruitment partnership and the promotion of safe, regulated migration. Key Highlights – Opening Remarks were delivered by the President of the Hellenic Indian Chamber, who underscored the importance of Indo-Greek collaboration in addressing labour market demands through ethical, transparent frameworks. – Addresses by Greek Officials included senior representatives from various ministries. The speakers focused on accelerating visa and recruitment procedures, streamlining documentation, and providing housing and integration support for incoming workers. They emphasised the importance of engaging only Government of India-licensed recruitment agencies to ensure fair and lawful recruitment practices. – Technical Presentations detailed documentation protocols, estimated processing timelines, and employer responsibilities. These were delivered by ministry officials, labour law experts, and licensed overseas recruitment agencies. – Hellenic Chamber and FIMCA shared actionable insights and experiences related to cross-border hiring, highlighting grievance redressal mechanisms and the importance of monitoring worker welfare throughout the employment cycle. FIMCA's Participation A key moment during the evening was the address by Mr. Alijan Rajan, spokesperson for the Federation of Indian Emigration Management Councils and Associations (FIMCA)-India's apex federation of licensed overseas recruitment agencies. 'At the heart of our mission lies the dignity of labour,' said Mr. Rajan. 'We are proud to partner with Greece in ensuring that Indian workers are recruited transparently, deployed responsibly, and supported meaningfully.' He further announced a strategic partnership between FIMCA and the Hellenic Indian Chamber, aimed at building robust institutional frameworks, ensuring legal compliance, and enhancing trust between recruiters and employers. FIMCA reaffirmed its full readiness to collaborate with Greek authorities and employers to implement structured manpower pathways in sectors such as hospitality, construction, agriculture, and manufacturing. Closing and Future Outlook The event concluded with closing remarks by the President of the Hellenic Indian Chamber of Commerce, who reiterated the chamber's commitment to advancing ethical manpower mobility and strengthening Indo-Greek ties through sustained dialogue, cooperation, and bilateral engagement. 'Eutopia' stands as a pivotal milestone in the emerging model of Indo-Greek manpower mobility-founded on legality, ethics, and mutual economic growth. Federation of Indian Emigration Management Councils and Associations (FIMCA) Location: 502, Shah & Nahar Industrial Estate, Worli, Mumbai – 400018, India, office@ | | +91-9820083386 (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by BusinessWire India. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.
