The Manipal University Press will release its 42nd publication titled “Legends of Travancore — A Numismatic Heritage” at the Interact Lecture Hall here at 4.30 p.m. on Friday.
A release issued by the university here on Wednesday said that the book is all about the kingdom of Travancore, a native state in British India, well-known for its progressive outlook. Its enlightened royalty ruled as Sree Padmanabha Dasa. Though Travancore was under colonial rulers, there was a well-orchestrated administrative machinery for coinage. Coins were minted as per the specifications ordered by the periodically issued royal proclamations. It is creditable that Travancore retained its independence in functioning to a large extent.
This book provides an insight into the coins of modern Travancore (from 1729 AD) and not only reflects the religious beliefs of the rulers, but also sketches the socio-political atmosphere of the period.
The author of the book, Joseph Thomas, who hails from Thiruvananthapuram, is a Professor of Urology at Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University. His passion for collecting coins developed into a serious numismatic pursuit. His special area of interest is the study of the history of Venad and Travancore.
His detailed study of the Travancore coins and the various related issues provide an insight into the rich numismatic heritage of modern Travancore. He is a Life Member of the Philatelic and Numismatic Association of Thiruvananthapuram and a Life Member of the South Indian Numismatic Society, Chennai.
Though lifeless, coins tell the history of vanished empires, rise and fall of kingdoms, celebrated events and monarchs of yesteryear. Dr. Thomas has been able to narrate the history of Travancore — a jewel in the crown of Kerala — through the graphic account of its coinage. The book will be released by M.S. Valiathan, National Research Professor, Union Government. H. Vinod Bhat, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Manipal University, will preside over the function. The book release event will also be streamed live through YouTube.
The book narrates history of Travancore through graphic account of its coinage.
