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Economic Times
6 days ago
- Business
- Economic Times
If Mahatma Gandhi wasn't India's first choice for banknotes then how did he become Rupee's forever face?
Synopsis Initially rejected, Mahatma Gandhi's image wasn't always destined for Indian currency. Post-independence, the Lion Capital of Ashoka was favored, symbolizing the new republic. Gandhi's presence began with a 1969 commemorative note, becoming permanent in 1996. Despite debates and proposals for other figures, Gandhi remains a constant reminder of India's core values on every rupee. Mahatma Gandhi Walk into any shop in India, hand over a crumpled banknote, and you'll see a familiar face smiling back, bespectacled, serene, and instantly recognisable. Mahatma Gandhi doesn't just appear on our currency; he has become a quiet constant in our daily exchanges, silently passing through millions of hands each day. But the story of how he ended up there is far from straightforward. In fact, in the first flush of independence, Gandhi's portrait was rejected for Indian on 14 August 1947 brought independence, but not yet a new currency. For a brief period, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) continued issuing colonial notes bearing King George VI. Behind closed doors, discussions began on what a truly Indian banknote should look like. The early idea was simple, replace the King's portrait with that of the Father of the Nation. Designs were prepared with Gandhi's image. Then came a surprising turn. As the RBI recounts, the 'final analysis' shifted towards a non-personal symbol, the Lion Capital of Ashoka at Sarnath. It was felt this emblem, drawn from India's ancient heritage, better captured the idea of a modern republic. So, in 1949, the new Re. 1 note appeared with the Lion Capital watermark, and Gandhi's portrait was the following decades, Indian notes became miniature showcases of the country's identity and ambitions. Tigers, deer, and peacocks symbolised natural heritage. The Konark Wheel, Brihadeeswara Temple, and Hirakud Dam spoke of cultural pride and industrial progress. The Aryabhatta satellite hinted at a future in science and space. Currency in the 1950s and 60s was not about a single leader, it was about the nation as a wasn't until Gandhi's birth centenary in 1969 that he made his first official appearance on a banknote. This commemorative design showed him seated, with Sevagram Ashram in the background, a gentle nod to his life of simplicity and service. The issue was special and short-lived, not yet a permanent feature of Indian currency. The real turning point came in 1987. The Rajiv Gandhi government reintroduced the Rs 500 denomination, and for the first time on a regular note, Gandhi's portrait appeared on its obverse. Still, he wasn't on every note. That came in 1996, when the RBI launched the Mahatma Gandhi Series, redesigned notes with improved security features and, for the first time, Gandhi's smiling face on all 2016, the 'New Series' kept Gandhi firmly in place while refreshing colours, sizes, and themes. From Rs 10 to Rs 2,000, he had become inseparable from the the years, there have been calls to share this space. Some have suggested Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, Sardar Patel, or even religious figures like Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha. In 2016, the government clarified that a high-level committee had decided 'there is no need to change Mahatma Gandhi's photo on the currency notes.' Others have been honoured in different ways, Dr B. R. Ambedkar, for instance, was commemorated with special Rs 125 and Rs 10 coins. In 2022, a proposal from the Aam Aadmi Party to add Lakshmi and Ganesha sparked debate, with supporters citing prosperity and detractors warning against politicising or communalising currency design. For all the discussion, Gandhi remains unshaken on our notes. As Martin Luther King Jr. once said, 'Gandhi was inevitable… we may ignore him at our own risk.' On the rupee, his presence is more than decoration, it's a reminder of the values he championed: truth, non-violence, and unity in time we pass a note across a counter, we're not just exchanging money. We're handing over a piece of history, one that almost didn't have Gandhi's face, but now, perhaps fittingly, cannot be imagined without it.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
If Mahatma Gandhi wasn't India's first choice for banknotes then how did he become Rupee's forever face?
Walk into any shop in India, hand over a crumpled banknote, and you'll see a familiar face smiling back, bespectacled, serene, and instantly recognisable. Mahatma Gandhi doesn't just appear on our currency; he has become a quiet constant in our daily exchanges, silently passing through millions of hands each day. But the story of how he ended up there is far from straightforward. In fact, in the first flush of independence, Gandhi's portrait was rejected for Indian notes. Independence Day 2025 Before Trump, British used tariffs to kill Indian textile Bank of Azad Hind: When Netaji gave India its own currency Swadeshi 2.0: India is no longer just a market, it's a maker Midnight on 14 August 1947 brought independence, but not yet a new currency. For a brief period, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) continued issuing colonial notes bearing King George VI. Behind closed doors, discussions began on what a truly Indian banknote should look like. The early idea was simple, replace the King's portrait with that of the Father of the Nation. Designs were prepared with Gandhi's image. Then came a surprising turn. As the RBI recounts, the 'final analysis' shifted towards a non-personal symbol, the Lion Capital of Ashoka at Sarnath. It was felt this emblem, drawn from India's ancient heritage, better captured the idea of a modern republic. So, in 1949, the new Re. 1 note appeared with the Lion Capital watermark, and Gandhi's portrait was shelved. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Could Be the Best Time to Trade Gold in 5 Years IC Markets Learn More Undo In the following decades, Indian notes became miniature showcases of the country's identity and ambitions. Tigers, deer, and peacocks symbolised natural heritage. The Konark Wheel, Brihadeeswara Temple, and Hirakud Dam spoke of cultural pride and industrial progress. The Aryabhatta satellite hinted at a future in science and space. Currency in the 1950s and 60s was not about a single leader, it was about the nation as a whole. Gandhi's First Appearance (1969) It wasn't until Gandhi's birth centenary in 1969 that he made his first official appearance on a banknote. This commemorative design showed him seated, with Sevagram Ashram in the background, a gentle nod to his life of simplicity and service. The issue was special and short-lived, not yet a permanent feature of Indian currency. Live Events The real turning point came in 1987. The Rajiv Gandhi government reintroduced the Rs 500 denomination, and for the first time on a regular note, Gandhi's portrait appeared on its obverse. Still, he wasn't on every note. That came in 1996, when the RBI launched the Mahatma Gandhi Series, redesigned notes with improved security features and, for the first time, Gandhi's smiling face on all denominations. In 2016, the 'New Series' kept Gandhi firmly in place while refreshing colours, sizes, and themes. From Rs 10 to Rs 2,000, he had become inseparable from the rupee. Other Faces, Other Ideas Over the years, there have been calls to share this space. Some have suggested Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, Sardar Patel, or even religious figures like Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha. In 2016, the government clarified that a high-level committee had decided 'there is no need to change Mahatma Gandhi's photo on the currency notes.' Others have been honoured in different ways, Dr B. R. Ambedkar, for instance, was commemorated with special Rs 125 and Rs 10 coins. In 2022, a proposal from the Aam Aadmi Party to add Lakshmi and Ganesha sparked debate, with supporters citing prosperity and detractors warning against politicising or communalising currency design. The Inescapable Mahatma For all the discussion, Gandhi remains unshaken on our notes. As Martin Luther King Jr. once said, 'Gandhi was inevitable… we may ignore him at our own risk.' On the rupee, his presence is more than decoration, it's a reminder of the values he championed: truth, non-violence, and unity in diversity. Every time we pass a note across a counter, we're not just exchanging money. We're handing over a piece of history, one that almost didn't have Gandhi's face, but now, perhaps fittingly, cannot be imagined without it.
Korea Herald
03-06-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
DTX Group Debuts as Global Force, Powered by Strategic Vision and Independence Under Hussein Lookmanjee's Leadership
Backed by years of preparation and a clear global strategy, DTX Group launches to capitalize on emerging market opportunities and reshape the international aviation maintenance landscape. DUBAI, UAE, June 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- DTX Group proudly announces its official launch, marking a strategic evolution in the global aerospace sector. This milestone coincides with Hussein Lookmanjee's full divestment from Drayton Aerospace, with his remaining equity acquired by Lion Capital. This move enables Lookmanjee to fully commit his efforts and resources to the international growth and leadership of DTX Group. In 2019, Drayton Aerospace defined two parallel strategic paths: a regional focused business led by local management, and an international division under the leadership of Hussein Lookmanjee. Recognizing Lookmanjee's strengths in launching greenfield operations, the board tasked him with leading international operations, while localizing leadership of its China operations by appointing Mr. Hong Qi Ye as the China President, in 2020 and later in 2021, Mr. Steven Young as CEO of Drayton Aerospace. Importantly, while Lion Capital has assumed the controlling interest of Drayton Aerospace's China-based operations; along with eight other Chinese partners, all non-China Drayton entities—including the Brazil-based MRO companies and global support units—are now part of the DTX Group and remain under the sole ownership of Hussein Lookmanjee. This structural realignment reflects the differing strategic priorities between the China-focused shareholders and the internationally driven DTX team. Over the last six years, Lookmanjee and his senior team have built a strong global platform—opening new maintenance facilities, launching a parts distribution business, and expanding into key markets such as South America and the Middle East. Under his leadership Drayton Aerospace has become a leading independent player in the civil, freight aviation MRO markets. "Now is the right time for this transition," said Hussein Lookmanjee. "DTX Group has evolved into a globally competitive business that merits dedicated focus. This move enables us to pursue our original international vision with greater clarity and autonomy. We plan to fully invest the proceeds from the Drayton divestment into strategic growth opportunities, including three exciting acquisitions slated for completion before year's end." Although DTX Group's international strategy experienced temporary delays during the COVID-19 pandemic, momentum has since resumed. Formally established in September 2024, DTX Group is headquartered in the Middle East, with its parts trading business operating in the United States and two MRO facilities located in Brazil. The Group is on track to launch a new MRO facility in the Middle East by Q3 2025. with additional expansion targeted across Africa and Europe. DTX Group will now operate independently to pursue global growth opportunities. Its international team—assembled and refined over several years—has been fully integrated into the organization and is well-positioned to lead the next phase of development with a clear and focused strategic vision. For more information, please visit:
Cision Canada
02-06-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
DTX Group Debuts as Global Force, Powered by Strategic Vision and Independence Under Hussein Lookmanjee's Leadership Français
Backed by years of preparation and a clear global strategy, DTX Group launches to capitalize on emerging market opportunities and reshape the international aviation maintenance landscape. DUBAI, UAE, June 2, 2025 /CNW/ -- DTX Group proudly announces its official launch, marking a strategic evolution in the global aerospace sector. This milestone coincides with Hussein Lookmanjee's full divestment from Drayton Aerospace, with his remaining equity acquired by Lion Capital. This move enables Lookmanjee to fully commit his efforts and resources to the international growth and leadership of DTX Group. In 2019, Drayton Aerospace defined two parallel strategic paths: a regional focused business led by local management, and an international division under the leadership of Hussein Lookmanjee. Recognizing Lookmanjee's strengths in launching greenfield operations, the board tasked him with leading international operations, while localizing leadership of its China operations by appointing Mr. Hong Qi Ye as the China President, in 2020 and later in 2021, Mr. Steven Young as CEO of Drayton Aerospace. Importantly, while Lion Capital has assumed the controlling interest of Drayton Aerospace's China-based operations; along with eight other Chinese partners, all non-China Drayton entities—including the Brazil-based MRO companies and global support units—are now part of the DTX Group and remain under the sole ownership of Hussein Lookmanjee. This structural realignment reflects the differing strategic priorities between the China-focused shareholders and the internationally driven DTX team. Over the last six years, Lookmanjee and his senior team have built a strong global platform—opening new maintenance facilities, launching a parts distribution business, and expanding into key markets such as South America and the Middle East. Under his leadership Drayton Aerospace has become a leading independent player in the civil, freight aviation MRO markets. "Now is the right time for this transition," said Hussein Lookmanjee. "DTX Group has evolved into a globally competitive business that merits dedicated focus. This move enables us to pursue our original international vision with greater clarity and autonomy. We plan to fully invest the proceeds from the Drayton divestment into strategic growth opportunities, including three exciting acquisitions slated for completion before year's end." Although DTX Group's international strategy experienced temporary delays during the COVID-19 pandemic, momentum has since resumed. Formally established in September 2024, DTX Group is headquartered in the Middle East, with its parts trading business operating in the United States and two MRO facilities located in Brazil. The Group is on track to launch a new MRO facility in the Middle East by Q3 2025. with additional expansion targeted across Africa and Europe. DTX Group will now operate independently to pursue global growth opportunities. Its international team—assembled and refined over several years—has been fully integrated into the organization and is well-positioned to lead the next phase of development with a clear and focused strategic vision.
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
DTX Group Debuts as Global Force, Powered by Strategic Vision and Independence Under Hussein Lookmanjee's Leadership
Backed by years of preparation and a clear global strategy, DTX Group launches to capitalize on emerging market opportunities and reshape the international aviation maintenance landscape. DUBAI, UAE, June 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- DTX Group proudly announces its official launch, marking a strategic evolution in the global aerospace sector. This milestone coincides with Hussein Lookmanjee's full divestment from Drayton Aerospace, with his remaining equity acquired by Lion Capital. This move enables Lookmanjee to fully commit his efforts and resources to the international growth and leadership of DTX Group. In 2019, Drayton Aerospace defined two parallel strategic paths: a regional focused business led by local management, and an international division under the leadership of Hussein Lookmanjee. Recognizing Lookmanjee's strengths in launching greenfield operations, the board tasked him with leading international operations, while localizing leadership of its China operations by appointing Mr. Hong Qi Ye as the China President, in 2020 and later in 2021, Mr. Steven Young as CEO of Drayton Aerospace. Importantly, while Lion Capital has assumed the controlling interest of Drayton Aerospace's China-based operations; along with eight other Chinese partners, all non-China Drayton entities—including the Brazil-based MRO companies and global support units—are now part of the DTX Group and remain under the sole ownership of Hussein Lookmanjee. This structural realignment reflects the differing strategic priorities between the China-focused shareholders and the internationally driven DTX team. Over the last six years, Lookmanjee and his senior team have built a strong global platform—opening new maintenance facilities, launching a parts distribution business, and expanding into key markets such as South America and the Middle East. Under his leadership Drayton Aerospace has become a leading independent player in the civil, freight aviation MRO markets. "Now is the right time for this transition," said Hussein Lookmanjee. "DTX Group has evolved into a globally competitive business that merits dedicated focus. This move enables us to pursue our original international vision with greater clarity and autonomy. We plan to fully invest the proceeds from the Drayton divestment into strategic growth opportunities, including three exciting acquisitions slated for completion before year's end." Although DTX Group's international strategy experienced temporary delays during the COVID-19 pandemic, momentum has since resumed. Formally established in September 2024, DTX Group is headquartered in the Middle East, with its parts trading business operating in the United States and two MRO facilities located in Brazil. The Group is on track to launch a new MRO facility in the Middle East by Q3 2025. with additional expansion targeted across Africa and Europe. DTX Group will now operate independently to pursue global growth opportunities. Its international team—assembled and refined over several years—has been fully integrated into the organization and is well-positioned to lead the next phase of development with a clear and focused strategic vision. For more information, please visit: View original content: SOURCE Aerospace Marketing Group Sign in to access your portfolio
