History and Culture The Big Temple Chariot Symbol on Nayak Period Coins Context : Numismatic researchers have stated that the symbol of the Thanjavur Big Temple (Brihadisvara Temple) chariot is engraved on the coins issued during the Thanjavur Nayak rule. Tamil temple chariots are built in the Dravidian architectural style and have been depicted not only in inscriptions, sculptures, paintings, and literature but also on coinage. It is believed that these coins were likely issued during temple festival seasons to commemorate the chariot festival. Under the Vijayanagara Empire, Nayak kings issued various types of coins featuring chariot motifs. Two types of coins found in the Chola region have been identified as belonging to the Thanjavur Nayak period, as they feature the chariot symbol. This is a copper coin weighing 2.3 grams. It features an image of a bull (Nandi), with the sun and moon above it, and a chariot depicted in the background. This is also a copper coin, weighing 0.64 grams. It features an image of Lord Ganesha on the obverse and a chariot symbol on the reverse. Environment Nilgiri Tahr Census Context: To ensure the long-term protection of the Nilgiri Tahr, the state animal of Tamil Nadu, various special schemes are being implemented by the Government of Tamil Nadu. As part of this, an integrated Nilgiri Tahr census is being conducted in collaboration with the Kerala Forest Department. This census is conducted annually after the winter calving season, when young animals are seen with mature herds. In the first integrated census held in 2024, the number of Tahrs was estimated at 1,031. In the second integrated census held in 2025, the number of Nilgiri Tahrs was estimated at 1,303. During this study, the continuous use of newly re-colonized habitats like Pasumalai was confirmed, as well as the…
