HYDERABAD: It was a feast for history lovers at Osmania University Arts College hall where rare and old manuscripts were on display on Thursday.
These manuscripts and related articles were part of the exhibition being organised by the Andhra Pradesh Oriental Manuscripts Library and Research Institute (APGOML&RI).
Some of the items on display were as old as 100 years. The exhibited manuscripts were in various languages like Telugu, Sanskrit, Urdu, Arabic and Persian.
Some of the works on display included Nahish Natak by Giridhar Das written 200 years back, Andhra Mahabharatam by Nannaya scripted 100 years ago, Ajaibul Makhlukhat of 1585 AD and many others. Every manuscript, painting or items displayed had some historical importance.
Pointing towards a Kommalavari painting, Venkatanarayana, a scholar at APGOML&RI shared some details. “The significance of this painting is that history of the Yadavs is told in the form of pictures. In Telangana region, the painting used to be displayed and its related story was narrated to the audience. The surprising fact is that these stories would sometimes go on for 15 days,” he revealed.
Some of the items on display included various types of Ghantam which was used as a pen to carve literature on copper plates.
Later on, a seminar was held which was organised by National Manuscripts Mission, New Delhi, APGOML&RI, Hyderabad and University College of Arts and Social Sciences, OU, Hyderabad.
Speaking at the seminar, Jayadhir Tirumala Rao, Director, APGOML&RI informed, “This is the first time that such an event is being held. These manuscripts are a very important part of our history and we need to preserve them. Researchers are also working on the scripts to know more about them.” Tirumala Rao requested the state government to help set up a permanent museum of manuscripts by allotting land.
Tirupati Rao, Vice-Chancellor, Osmania university advised that one can look for solutions to various problems in these old manuscripts.
“In this computer age, one should also be informed about history as it not only imparts knowledge but also shows us wisdom. It is important to know our culture and tradition. One can find solutions to our current problems by reading and understanding literary works of yore,” he opined.
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