233-Year-Old Valmiki Ramayana Manuscript Gifted to Ayodhya's Ram Katha Museum

A rare 233-year-old Sanskrit manuscript of Valmiki's Ramayana has been permanently gifted to the Ram Katha museum in Ayodhya, enhancing its cultural heritage and significance.

A 233-year-old Sanskrit manuscript of Valmiki's Ramayana has been donated to the Ram Katha Museum in Ayodhya, as announced by the Culture Ministry. This significant cultural transfer was marked by Shrinivasa Varakhedi, Vice Chancellor of the Central Sanskrit University, handing over the manuscript to Nripendra Misra, Chairman of the Executive Council of Prime Ministers Museum and Library.

The manuscript, written by Adi Kavi Valmiki with commentary by Maheshvara Tirtha, is in Sanskrit using Devanagari script. It dates back to Vikrama Samvat 1849 or 1792 CE, showcasing a rare preserved textual tradition of the Ramayana. The collection includes five main sections: Balakanda, Aranyakanda, Kiskindhakanda, Sundarakanda, and Yuddhakanda.

Valmiki Ramayana Manuscript Gifted

Previously loaned to Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, the manuscript is now permanently housed at the Antarrashtriya Ram Katha Sangrahalaya International Ram Katha Museum in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. This donation enhances the museum's role as a global hub for Ramayana heritage, promoting public access and preservation.

"This gift immortalises the profound wisdom of Valmiki Ramayana, making it accessible to scholars, devotees, and visitors worldwide in the sacred city of Ayodhya," said Varakhedi. Misra added that this donation marks a significant moment for devotees of Ram and the temple complex at Ayodhya.

The manuscript's transfer supports the museum's development as a centre for cultural heritage. It ensures that the teachings and stories of the Ramayana are available to a broader audience. This gesture highlights the importance of preserving historical texts for future generations.

With inputs from PTI