On Wednesday, Udupi District Commissioner Swaroop T.K. emphasized the importance of preserving manuscripts to safeguard the region’s rich cultural heritage. He was speaking at a meeting held at the district commissioner’s office in Manipal, where discussions were underway about the Karnataka Knowledge Repository and digitization of manuscripts. Swaroop T.K. underscored that the district’s populace must extend necessary cooperation for this endeavor, as part of the ‘Jnana Bharatam Mission’ scheme. The initiative aims to digitize ancient manuscripts, thereby preventing their deterioration.
According to Swaroop T.K., over one crore manuscripts have been digitized across the country, with more than four lakh manuscripts digitized in Karnataka alone. In Udupi district, 4756 manuscript records have been digitized so far. He appealed to the public to share information about manuscripts in their possession and participate in the preservation effort. Individuals can directly upload details of their manuscripts via the Jnana Bharatam app or provide information, which will be recorded by surveyors.
Swaroop T.K. assured that the original manuscripts will be returned safely after digitization, without any damage. These manuscripts contain ancient knowledge of science, literature, medicine, and religious practices, written on materials like palm leaves and paper. He stressed that preserving this knowledge is everyone’s responsibility and that digitized manuscripts will facilitate research for future generations.
The meeting was attended by Mahantesh Hangargi, Assistant Director of the Tourism Department Vindya N.M., and others. Swaroop T.K. highlighted that manuscripts provide valuable insights into the language, script, and cultural practices of our ancestors, making their preservation crucial for understanding our heritage.
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📰 Source: Vartha Bharati Udupi