ગુજરાતના પ્રસિદ્ધ હસ્તલિખિત- ગ્રંથભંડારો

Summary

In this Gujarati article, Bhārati Śelat and R.T. Sāvaliyā survey the prominent manuscript libraries of Gujarat and highlight their cultural and scholarly importance. The authors begin by noting Gujarat’s long tradition of preserving handwritten manuscripts, which include texts on literature, religion, science and the arts. They describe how early educational institutions and royal patrons established libraries to house palm‑leaf and paper manuscripts, often inscribed with intricate calligraphy and illustrations. The article provides an overview of major collections, such as those found in Jain temples, private bhāṇḍāras and state archives. For each, the authors discuss the history of the institution, notable works held there and the current state of preservation. They emphasise the role of Jain communities in safeguarding rare texts and recount efforts by scholars to catalogue and microfilm collections. The article also addresses challenges such as deterioration, lack of funding and limited access for researchers. It calls attention to the need for trained conservators and modern storage facilities to protect this heritage. By documenting the breadth of Gujarat’s manuscript culture, the authors argue that these libraries are invaluable resources for understanding regional history, linguistics and intellectual life. They appeal to government agencies and cultural organisations to support preservation and promote public awareness of these treasures.