Jorhat's Jora Villa: A Coin-Curated Chronicle of Assam's History and Heritage

Explore Jorhat's Jora Villa, a heritage bungalow turned coin museum, showcasing Assam's rich history and the Ahom dynasty through a unique numismatic collection.

In Jorhat, Assam, Jora Villa stands as a testament to the region's vibrant history. This heritage bungalow, now a coin museum, offers a unique glimpse into the past, highlighting the Ahom dynasty and Assam's cultural significance.

Jorhat: Assam's Historical Nerve Center

Jorhat, long considered Assam’s cultural and political heart, houses a remarkable private coin museum. Tucked away on Club Road, the museum resides within Jora Villa, a heritage bungalow lovingly transformed by Om Prakash Gattani, a passionate collector with a keen eye for history.

Jora Villa: More Than Just Coins

Gattani's collection isn't merely a display of old currencies; it's a meticulously curated chronicle of the region's royal past. The museum boasts over 2,000 coins, with more than 220 originating from the Ahom dynasty alone. These aren't just coins; they are artifacts that once passed through the hands of kings, queens, traders, and warriors.

A Legacy Passed Down

The museum's origins lie in a legacy passed down through generations. Gattani, though not originally from Assam, inherited rare coins from his father and grandfather. His passion for history fueled the expansion of this legacy into a curated collection. He has coins from Gadadhar Singha’s rule in 1681 to Purandar Singha, the last Ahom ruler.

Unveiling Historical Mysteries

Some coins bear Tai inscriptions, while others reflect a shift to the Assamese language during Rudra Singha's reign. Intriguingly, some coins feature the names of Siva Singha's queens, including Sarveshwari, whose name is absent from official chronicles. Gattani believes these artifacts call for a reevaluation of written histories.

A National Asset

Jora Villa isn't just a local gem; it's a significant national asset. It sparks curiosity about Assam's heritage. It encourages us to question what we know and seek a deeper understanding of the past.

A Coin's Worth

Who knew that a simple coin could hold so much history? If you ever find yourself in Jorhat, take a detour to Jora Villa. You might just discover a new appreciation for history, heritage, and the stories that coins can tell. It is an experience that will leave you richer, not in currency, but in knowledge and wonder.