Ramatanka – Hindu temple token, (c.1850’s) The designs on all ramatankas were inspired by scenes from the Hindu epic, the Ramayana (meaning Rama`s journey). This tells the story of Rama’s banishment, exile and eventual triumphant return to his claim his kingdom at Ayodhya. Dubar (platform) scenes on ramatankas always include the main characters of the Ramayana – Rama, his wife Sita, his half-brothers Lakshman, Baratha and Satrughra. The monkey god Hanuman, a loyal devotee of Rama is always there as well, giving devotion to Rama. Hanuman played a central role and provided invaluable assistance to Rama.
Obverse lettering
Obverse script
Reverse description
The reverse side depicts Hanuman making his way through the palm forest holding a sceptre in his right hand and carrying a mountain in the other. On that mountain grew a special herb that could revive Lakshman, who was mortally wounded. As Hanuman could not identify the correct herb he grew in size and thus carried the mountain to Rama who would identify the herb and revive his half-brother with it. The inscriptions read RAJA RAMA SITA LAKMANAKI JA-A along the top and below HANAMANA SANA 47340. The 47340 is a year date but does not relate to the minting date.
