In the annals of Indian history, Mahmud of Ghazni is often remembered as a fierce invader, known for his raids on the wealthy temples of the subcontinent, especially the famed Somnath Temple. However, beneath this image of a ruthless conqueror lies a more complex figure—one who understood the importance of cultural diplomacy.
This aspect of Mahmud’s rule comes to light through an interesting numismatic detail: his issuance of silver coins bearing Sanskrit inscriptions. The Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPCS) has also asked a question on this fact in the UPPCS Prelims exam of 2000.
Mahmud of Ghazni: The Invader and Statesman
Mahmud of Ghazni (971–1030 CE) was the ruler of the Ghaznavid Empire, based in modern-day Afghanistan. His reign is most famous for the numerous invasions he launched into the Indian subcontinent, beginning in 1000 CE.
Between 1000 and 1027 CE, he conducted 17 such raids, with the primary goal of amassing wealth and asserting his dominance. His raids, particularly the attack on Somnath in 1025 CE, have been etched into historical memory as acts of plunder.
However, while his military exploits are well documented, Mahmud’s interaction with Indian culture and its complex socio-political fabric is equally fascinating. His use of Sanskrit inscriptions on his coins reflects this deeper engagement with the local population.
The Silver Coins with Sanskrit Legends
The issuance of silver coins with Sanskrit inscriptions is one of the most notable examples of Mahmud’s strategic diplomacy. These coins typically had the king’s name and titles written in Arabic on one side, but the reverse side bore Sanskrit legends.
This duality in language on the coins signifies Mahmud’s recognition of the cultural and economic importance of the local Indian population, particularly the Hindu merchants and elites who played a crucial role in trade and commerce.
In a time where currency was not only a means of economic exchange but also a symbol of sovereignty and legitimacy, Mahmud’s decision to mint coins with Sanskrit inscriptions was a calculated political move. By adopting the local language and religious symbols on his currency, Mahmud sought to legitimize his rule in the eyes of his Hindu subjects.
Why Sanskrit?
Sanskrit, the classical language of India, was more than just a mode of communication—it was the language of the Hindu Upper Caste elite especially Brahmins, associated with religious, intellectual, and royal authority. By using Sanskrit on his coins, Mahmud of Ghazni was making a deliberate effort to align himself with Indian uppercaste royal traditions, which often incorporated Sanskrit in their coinage, inscriptions, and courtly rituals.
Furthermore, Sanskrit was closely associated with Hinduism and the Brahmanical order, which dominated the socio-religious hierarchy of India. By issuing coins with Sanskrit inscriptions, Mahmud likely aimed to ease his acceptance among the Hindu elites and temple authorities, who held significant sway in the local political landscape.
Strategic Use of Numismatics in Ghazni’s Rule
Mahmud’s decision to mint coins with Sanskrit legends can also be seen as part of a broader strategy used by early Muslim rulers in India to consolidate their rule. Much like Muhammad Ghori, who later minted coins with Hindu deities, Mahmud realized the importance of cultural adaptation when dealing with a large non-Muslim population.
Coins were one of the most tangible symbols of a ruler’s authority, used in everyday transactions and circulated across vast regions. By minting coins that featured local languages and symbols, Mahmud was asserting his legitimacy while showing that he respected the traditions of the people under his rule.
Beyond the Image of the “Iconoclast”
While Mahmud of Ghazni is often portrayed in historical narratives as a figure of destruction, especially for his attacks on Hindu temples, the issuance of Sanskrit-inscribed coins provides a more nuanced view of his policies.
It reveals a ruler who was not solely driven by religious zeal or the desire for plunder but one who understood the importance of political legitimacy and the need to engage with the diverse cultures of the regions he conquered.
This practice also shows that Mahmud was aware of the significance of economic stability and the role of coinage in facilitating trade. By using Sanskrit, he likely aimed to instill confidence among the Indian trading class, ensuring the smooth functioning of commerce within his expanding empire.
Conclusion
The issuance of silver coins with Sanskrit legends by Mahmud of Ghazni is a fascinating episode in Indian history. It reflects the complex interplay between conquest and accommodation that characterized the early Muslim rule in India.
Far from being a one-dimensional invader, Mahmud’s use of Sanskrit in his coinage demonstrates his understanding of the need to adopt local customs and symbols to cement his power and gain legitimacy among the people he ruled.
This numismatic evidence challenges the traditional view of Mahmud as merely a plunderer and highlights his pragmatic approach to governance, blending conquest with cultural sensitivity.
In the end, Mahmud’s legacy is one of both destruction and diplomacy, with his Sanskrit-inscribed coins standing as a testament to his awareness of the rich cultural fabric of India.