Jul 11 2025 to Jul 11 2025 6:30 p.m.

Where

Bangalore International Centre

7 4th Main Rd, Stage 2, Domlur 560071

Event Description

Indian paper money has a rich history, filled with numerous fascinating stories and unique aspects that reflect the country’s diverse heritage and evolving economy.

One of the most remarkable pieces is the only surviving ancient paper note of India, which was circulated during the British colonial period. Equally significant is the first One Rupee note issued in 1917, marking the early stages of formal paper currency in the country. Among the rare denominations is the unusual Two and a Half Rupees note, which stands out for its distinct value and limited circulation.

The influence of foreign colonial powers is also evident in the paper money issued by the Portuguese and French in their respective territories in India. Additionally, several princely states across the subcontinent issued their own forms of paper currency, showcasing the regional autonomy and diversity of pre-independence India.

Other intriguing aspects include the issuance of Prisoners of War Camp Money and the use of paper cash coupons as a substitute for currency in certain regions. A rare and noteworthy event in monetary history is the Reserve Bank of India’s simultaneous issuance of currency notes for two different countries—an occurrence seldom seen elsewhere.

India has also seen the release of commemorative banknotes on a single known occasion, adding a unique dimension to its numismatic record. More recently, the 2016 demonetisation marked a historic turning point, acting as a catalyst for increased digital economy awareness and financial literacy across the nation.

In this session, Mr. Rezwan Razack dives into some fascinating anecdotes of Indian paper money. He’ll also be in conversation with Ramjee Chandran about the evolving nature of currency in India. A Q&A with the audience will follow.

Speakers

Rezwan Razack
Co-Founder & Managing Director, Prestige Group
Dr. Rezwan Razack, Ph.D (Honoris Causa) is a renowned entrepreneur, philanthropist, and India’s foremost authority on Indian paper money. As the Co-Founder and Managing Director of Prestige Group, one of India’s leading real estate developers, he has spearheaded the completion of over 305 developments across the country. His leadership has not only shaped India’s urban landscape but has also fostered strong, motivated teams within the organisation. Beyond business, his philanthropic efforts are vast—ranging from supporting cancer research through the Terry Fox Run, to aiding underprivileged communities with medical assistance, food, education, and sports training.

A passionate numismatist for nearly six decades, Dr. Razack owns the most comprehensive collection of Indian paper currency in the world, showcased at the Rezwan Razack’s Museum of Indian Paper Money in Bangalore. He co-authored The Revised Standard Reference Guide to Indian Paper Money, considered the definitive global reference on the subject, and authored One Rupee – One Hundred Years 1917–2017 to commemorate a century of the One Rupee note. He is also the Founder and Chairman of the IBNS India Banknote Collectors’ Chapter, actively nurturing interest in numismatics through events, education, and publications. His contributions have been widely recognised, including his historic induction as the first Asian into the IBNS Hall of Fame in 2025.

Dr. Razack’s research and curation highlight numerous compelling episodes in Indian currency history—from the only surviving colonial-era paper note, to the rare ₹2.50 denomination, princely state and colonial currency, POW camp money, and even the rare instance of RBI issuing currency for two countries simultaneously. His work also covers India’s only commemorative banknotes and explores how the 2016 demonetisation became a pivotal moment for digital financial literacy. Through his scholarship and public outreach, Dr. Rezwan Razack has firmly established himself as the global face of Indian paper money.

Ramjee Chandran
Author, Journalist & Media Entrepreneur
Ramjee Chandran is author, journalist and media entrepreneur with decades of experience. His novel, For No Reason at All was released in January 2025 and he has been signed up to write his next book, The History of Bangalore—a work of scholarship crafted as narrative history. He is host of the podcasts, “The History of Bangalore”—a rich dive into the history of his hometown and “The Literary City”—a literary podcast that features authors acclaimed internationally.  He plays jazz guitar at the professional level—and chess with astonishing mediocrity.