Exhibition of ancient manuscripts inaugurated in Srinagar

Srinagar: An exhibition of rare, ancient manuscripts of the Holy Quran was inaugurated in Srinagar by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday.

It is being organised by Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages.

"It has been a delight to be able to see, first hand, the wealth of treasures that is with the Academy of Art, Culture and Languages," the Chief Minister wrote in the Visitors' Book after taking a round of the exhibition.

"It is our duty and responsibility to protect this wealth of Quranic manuscripts for future generation," he said.

Such an event would help spread awareness about the state's outstanding legacy, he said.

While witnessing the old manuscripts of Holy Quran prepared by renowned Kashmiri and other calligraphers utilizing various calligraphic innovations, Mr Omar also granted Rs 10 lakh for the digitisation of the rare manuscripts.

He directed the Cultural Academy to take required steps to ensure its preservation and protection.

Over 100 manuscripts of the Holy Quran, including the 700-year-old 'Nuskha Fatehullah Kashmiri' written in 1238 AD, are on display.

Other manuscripts that attract visitors' attention include a giant size copy of the Quran calligraphed by Mohiuddin Qureshi about 200 years ago.

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