‘The Kunindas and Their Coins’, a book published by the Hinduja Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the 111-year-old Hinduja Group, was today unveiled by Bhagwant Mann, Chief Minister, Government of Punjab, at a special ceremony. The launch ceremony was attended by Prakash P. Hinduja and Ashok P. Hinduja, Trustees, Hinduja Foundation, senior dignitaries, scholars, historians, and experts in ancient Indian numismatics.
Authored by noted numismatist Professor Devendra Handa, a former Punjab University academic and Chandigarh-based scholar, the book offers a clear study of the Kunindas an early Himalayan tribe that issued silver, copper and bronze coins between 200 BCE and 200 CE.
Drawing on the Hinduja Foundation’s extensive collection of over 34,000 coins, and on archaeological finds, hoards, museum material from Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh the book decodes the symbols and imagery on Kuninda coins and maps the tribe’s influence across the northern hill and riverine belt nearly 2,400 years ago.
The book third in the Heritage of India series published by the Foundation uncovers what Kuninda coins reveal about their culture, trade and beliefs. The earlier two volumes in the Heritage of India Series were Ancient Coins of India and Early North India and Its Coinage.
Bhagwant Mann, Chief Minister, Government of Punjab said, “Punjab’s heritage is rooted in its rivers, its resilience and its remarkable cultural continuity. The story of the Kunindas enriches this legacy, reminding us how the land of Panj-Aab has always been home to thriving artistic and economic traditions. I appreciate the Hinduja Group for bringing this important chapter of our shared past into public focus. Works like this help future generations connect with India’s civilisational journey through the lens of Punjab’s enduring spirit.”
Speaking at the launch, Ashok P. Hinduja, Chairman, Hinduja Foundation, said, “I extend my gratitude to Hon’ble Chief Minister of Punjab, Shri Bhagwant Mann ji, for unveiling this publication. The Kunindas are an essential thread in the historical fabric of the wider Punjab region, a land celebrated for its courage, craftsmanship and industrious people. The Hinduja Group has always believed it is our responsibility to preserve India’s cultural memory. This book carries forward our commitment to safeguarding the heritage of regions whose contributions continue to inspire the nation.”
