On Diwali, UK unveils a £5 commemorative coin celebrating Mahatma Gandhi

NEW DELHI: NOV. 5 – A new £5 coin to commemorate the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi has been unveiled by the United Kingdom’s government on the occasion of Diwali.

Available in a range of standards, including gold and silver, the special collectors’ coin was designed by Heena Glover and features an image of a lotus, India’s national flower, alongside one of Gandhi’s most famous quotes – ‘My life is my message’, UK High Commission here said in a statement.

Building on the enduring relationship and cultural connections between the UK and India, it is the first time that Gandhi has been commemorated on an official UK coin with the final design chosen by UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak, who is the Master of the Mint. UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak said, “This coin is a fitting tribute to an influential leader who inspired millions of people around the world.

As a practicing Hindu, I am proud to unveil this coin during Diwali. Mahatma Gandhi was instrumental in the movement for Indian independence and it is fantastic to have a UK coin commemorating his remarkable life for the first time.”