Lot 541

Independent Kingdoms, Gond Kingdom of Garha-Mandla, Sangram Shah (1512-1542 AD), Copper Falus, 8.75 gms, 18.08 x 18.50 mm, Obverse: Lion to left with front paw raised., Legend around in Devanagari ‘Shri Hariharaya Namah’ partially visible, Vikrama era Date below lion reading VS 1583 (1525 AD), Rev. Ruler's name ‘Shri Sangrama Sahi’ in Telugu (above) and Nagari (below), This ruler is not to be confused with Rana Sangram of Mewar, fine, extremely rare with clear date.

The kingdom of Garha-Mandla was one of three Gond kingdoms, the others being those of Chanda and Devgarh. Sangram Shah is the earliest of the rulers to be attested by historical sources, His original name was 'Aman Das' but after conquering 52 forts he later renamed himself ‘Sangram Shah’. He claimed descent from the family of Ravana, the mythical king of Sri Lanka and was well-known as a supporter of arts and literature, His eldest son, Dalpat Shah, married Rani Durgawati who fought bravely with Emperor Akbar. Coins of his reign are known to be dated as VS 1570, VS 1573, VS 1588, VS 1591 and VS 1600, This ruler is not to be confused with Rana Sangram of Mewar.