Did Indian kings really give away gold in charity?

Indian history and folklore are replete with stories of generous kings who gave away a lot of gold in charity. These stories, often found in ancient scriptures, local legends and inscriptions, paint a picture of rulers who considered charity a sacred duty. But the question is: did Indian kings actually give away gold in charity or are these stories just symbolic exaggerations? The truth lies somewhere in between: while ancient Indian rulers may not have given away unlimited treasures as some legends suggest, there is strong historical evidence that charity, especially in the form of gold and land grants, was a real and important part of royal duty.

In ancient Indian philosophy and religion – especially Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism – charity (dāna) was not just a moral virtue but a deeply spiritual act. It was believed that giving charity to brahmanas, temples, scholars and the poor would accrue punya (spiritual merit) and help achieve moksha (liberation). As protectors of dharma, kings were expected to set examples in performing acts of charity. Rulers were often advised by priests and spiritual advisers to give generously, not only to show power and wealth, but also to maintain cosmic order and spiritual balance.

There is solid epigraphic and archaeological evidence that many Indian kings did indeed donate large amounts of gold, land, cattle and gems. Stone inscriptions from the Gupta, Chola, Vijayanagara and Maurya dynasties record instances of kings giving thousands of gold coins, lavish gifts to temples and extensive land grants to brahmanas and religious institutions. For example, Gupta kings were known to perform the Ashvamedha sacrifice, during which they would distribute gold generously to priests. Chola kings in South India financed the construction of huge temples and endowed them with gold and land, ensuring their maintenance for generations.

Temples were among the primary recipients of royal generosity. Kings often viewed temple building and donations as a form of both political legitimacy and religious merit. They donated gold ornaments, gold-plated statues, ritual vessels, and even elephants and land to temples. These gifts were carefully recorded in temple inscriptions, which still survive today in places such as Thanjavur (Brihadeeswarar Temple) and Kanchipuram. Such donations were not always just acts of piety – they also helped kings forge alliances with religious elites and win the support of the people.

Royal donations in gold were not just about spiritual merit – they also served political and social purposes. Distributing wealth allowed kings to show their power, earn loyalty and maintain order in society. Generosity projected the ruler as a just and benevolent monarch. During coronations, victories in war or religious festivals, kings often held public ceremonies where gold coins were distributed to priests, artists and even the common people. Such actions reinforced the king’s image as a provider and protector of dharma.

However, not all stories of royal charity can be considered true. Puranic texts and folk tales often exaggerate the extent of charity. Kings such as Harsha, Raja Bhoja and Krishnadevaraya are remembered in stories where they donated all their wealth during large-scale yagnas or rituals. In some legends, kings are even said to have donated gold thrones, crowns and the entire treasury. These stories, although not always literal, reflect the cultural ideal of kingship in Indian society – a ruler who was generous, selfless and spiritually devoted. The purpose was often inspirational rather than historical accuracy.

India was not alone in linking kingship with great acts of charity. Rulers in medieval Europe, Islamic states and Chinese dynasties also donated wealth to religious institutions and subjects to gain legitimacy and divine favor. However, in India the spiritual benefits of charity were particularly emphasized, making acts of charity more closely linked to religious duties than in many other cultures.

So, did Indian kings really give gold in charity? Yes, although not always on the mythical scale described in ancient tales. Historical records, temple inscriptions, and copperplate grants clearly show that Indian rulers considered charity a core royal responsibility. Gold, along with land and other wealth, was indeed donated, often with great ceremony and public participation. At the same time, cultural ideals and literary imagination amplified these acts, transforming genuine generosity into mythical greatness. In the end, truth became a blend of historical fact and civilizational values. It reminds us of a time when strength, spirituality, and generosity are closely intertwined.