From Memory to Manuscript

Preserving India's Manuscript Heritage

- VIVEK SHUKLA

It goes without saying that preserving India's manuscript heritage is crucial for safeguarding its rich cultural, historical, and intellectual legacy.

These ancient texts, spanning literature, science, philosophy, and religion, offer insights into India's diverse traditions and knowledge systems. They connect present generations to their historical roots, fostering cultural identity and pride. Manuscripts, often written in languages like Sanskrit, Tamil, and Persian, are repositories of unique wisdom, including contributions to mathematics, astronomy, and medicine. Their preservation prevents the loss of irreplaceable knowledge due to decay or neglect.

In the often-daunting world of academia, transforming a fledgling idea into a polished, publishable manuscript can feel like an epic odyssey. Young researchers, postgraduate students, and even seasoned academics frequently grapple with the multifaceted challenges of this process. Dr. R.C. Gaur, a distinguished figure in library and information science, addresses these struggles in his seminal work, From Memory to Manuscript: India's Contribution to Unesco Memory of the World Programme, coauthored with Mayank Shekhar. More than a textbook, this guide serves as an indispensable mentor and compassionate companion for anyone navigating the rigorous terrain of scholarly creation.

On the book's publication, Mr. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister, remarked, "It is a moment of profound pride that India's civilization heritage, enshrined in its vast manuscript wealth, is being recognized and celebrated globally through UNESCO's Memory of the World Programme. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Ministry of Culture has placed unprecedented emphasis on safeguarding this heritage."