- By Kashish Rai
- Tue, 09 Sep 2025 12:38 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Why One Rupee Is Added In Shagun: In India, gifting money on special occasions like weddings, birthdays and anniversaries is a time-honoured ritual. You've probably noticed that the amounts often end in odd numbers, like 51, 101, 501, 1001, etc., with a one-rupee coin added to the sum. This practice has been religiously followed by our elders for ages. However, have you ever wondered why this practice is followed? Is it just a habit, or is there a deeper meaning behind adding a one-rupee coin to a Shagun lifafa?
In the Daily Jagran’s series Superstitions and Myths, let us explore the reasoning behind this custom below:
Why Is One Rupee Added To A Gift Sum Or Shagun Lifafa In India?
When giving money as a gift, people often choose odd amounts like 501 to make it impossible to divide in an even number. This practice was especially followed while giving Shagun to the newlyweds, as it represents their unity. Adding that extra rupee means the amount can't be divided into two even parts, just like the couple's bond. It is believed that adding one rupee to the sum of the money given as a Shagun brings good luck and strengthens the relationship. The undivided amount stands for the couple's togetherness, ensuring their relationship stays strong. The thought behind this tradition is that unity is key to a happy marriage.
Adding a single rupee also has a symbolic value. The number '0' can mean an end, but '1' symbolises a fresh start. By adding that rupee, the amount does not end in zero and instead it starts something new. This expresses good wishes, which makes the gift more meaningful. Amounts such as 101 or 501 cannot be divided, meaning the good wishes given are also undivided. This tradition shows the role of unity and new beginnings in our friendships, and the added one rupee shows these values.
The custom of adding one rupee extra to a gift sum or Shagun has been a traitional practice in India, still followed by many Indian households. (Image Source: Canva)
Additional Interpretations Of Adding One Rupee Extra In Shagun Sum
In shagun, the extra one rupee is more than symbolic, it creates relational ties. It is believed that this small sum puts an obligation on the receiver, who should meet the giver again to strengthen their bond. It shows continuity, signifying the promise of meeting again. This small gesture builds ties and togetherness.
The single rupee coin in Shagun also represents investment and growth. As a representation of Mata Lakshmi, metal stands for wealth. This small sum should be invested wisely or donated, so it can grow. With the addition of one rupee to a stable amount, people hope for the financial well-being of the person receiving the gift. This gesture is believed to be an act of kindness and warmth, hoping the gift brings the receiver more happiness and wealth.
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In India, adding an extra rupee to the shagun shows how important relationships are and that fostering growth and prosperity in the lives of loved ones is highly significant.
(Disclaimer: This content includes advice providing generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified spiritual or astrological opinion. Always consult a specialist for more information before adopting any measures.)
