• The Reserve Bank of India introduced new ₹ 50 denomination banknotes. This is the third currency note that has been introduced post-demonetisation, after ₹2,000 and ₹500.

• The new ₹ 50 currency notes will be of dimension 66 mm x 135 mm and will bear motif of Hampi with chariot and will carry the signature of Urjit R. Patel, Governor, Reserve Bank of India.

• The base colour of the note is Fluorescent Blue.

• All the banknotes in the denomination of ₹ 50/- issued by the Reserve Bank in the earlier series will continue to be legal tender, the apex bank said through a media release.

World Heritage Sites – Hampi:

• Traditionally known as Pampakshetra of Kishkindha, Hampi is situated on the southern bank of the river Tungabhadra. Once it was the seat of the mighty Vijayanagara empire.

• The monuments of Vijayanagara city, also known as Vidyanagara in honour of the sage Vidyaranya were built between AD 1336-1570, from the times of Harihara-I to Sadasiva Raya. A large number of royal buildings were raised by Krishnadeva Raya (AD 1509-30), the greatest ruler of the dynasty. The period witnessed resurgence of Hindu religion, art, architecture in an unprecedented scale. The contemporary chroniclers who came from far off countries-such as Arabia, Italy, Portugal and Russia visited the empire, have left graphic and glowing accounts of the city.

• Extensive remains of the palaces can be seen within innermost enclosure of the ancient Vijayanagara. The various religious and secular structures which include Hindu and Jaina temples, audience hall of the king, the magnificent throne platform to witness the festivals and other events, the king’s balance (tulabhara) are awe-inspiring.

• Temples of this city are noted for their large dimensions, florid ornamentation, bold and delicate carvings, stately pillars, magnificent pavilions and a great wealth of iconographic and traditional depictions which include subjects from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. The largest extant temple is that of Pampapati (now in worship) was extensively renovated. Its magnificent entrance tower was caused by Krishnadeva Raya. The Vitthala temple is an excellent example of Vijayanagara style. The monolithic statues of Lakshmi, Narasimha and Ganesa are noted for their massiveness and grace.