Ministry of Culture Highlights India’s Manuscript Wealth
The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, has announced an international conference titled “Reclaiming Indiaโs Knowledge Legacy Through Manuscript Heritage,” set to take place from September 11 to 13, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. This event, coinciding with Guru Purnima, aims to honor the guruโลiแนฃya tradition and celebrate India’s rich manuscript heritage. The conference will feature prominent scholars and cultural custodians from around the world, focusing on various aspects of manuscript preservation and knowledge dissemination.
Significance of the Conference
This groundbreaking conference marks the first of its kind dedicated to Manuscript Heritage in India. It is designed to commemorate Swami Vivekanandaโs historic address at the Parliament of the Worldโs Religions on September 11, 1893, which continues to inspire Indiaโs commitment to knowledge and universal harmony. The event will be conducted in a hybrid format, allowing both in-person and virtual participation, thus ensuring a wide reach for attendees from across the globe. More than 500 delegates, including 75 eminent scholars, are expected to engage in discussions that will explore critical themes related to manuscript studies.
Exploring Manuscript Heritage
India is home to an unparalleled collection of over 10 million manuscripts that encompass a vast array of subjects, including philosophy, science, medicine, and the arts. These manuscripts are not merely historical artifacts; they embody the essence of Bhฤratฤซya Jรฑฤna Paramparฤ, serving as a vital link to Indiaโs intellectual and cultural heritage. The conference will feature thematic sessions addressing key issues such as conservation, digitization, and ethical custodianship. Additionally, side events will include exhibitions of rare manuscripts, live demonstrations of conservation techniques, and workshops aimed at enhancing public engagement with manuscript heritage.
Expected Outcomes and Initiatives
Among the anticipated outcomes of the conference is the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration on Manuscript Heritage, which will outline strategies for the future of manuscript studies. The formation of expert working groups focused on decipherment, conservation, and digital archiving is also planned. Furthermore, the Manuscript Research Partner (MRP) program will be introduced to provide young scholars with hands-on training and opportunities for digital content development. This initiative aims to foster a new generation of researchers dedicated to preserving and promoting Indiaโs manuscript legacy.
Call for Papers and Participation
The conference organizers invite original research papers and case studies in Hindi or English on various themes related to manuscript studies, including conservation and technological innovations. Abstracts must be submitted by August 10, 2025, through the official conference website. Full papers and inquiries can be directed to the conference email. This international gathering is poised to rejuvenate Indiaโs manuscript legacy and reconnect generations with the wisdom contained in ancient texts, reinforcing India’s position as a global leader in knowledge traditions.
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