PM Modi praises Mani Maran of Saraswathi Mahal Library for preserving ancient manuscripts

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on a two-day visit to Tamil Nadu, commended the efforts of Mani Maran, the Tamil Pundit of the Saraswathi Mahal Library, to preserve ancient manuscripts. The Saraswathi Mahal Library has published 20 books written by him. He is also conducting research on a Monograph of the Sendalai Temple.

In his message through Mann Ki Baat on All India Radio (AIR), Mr Modi said while the foundation of Bharat’s culture lies in our festivals and traditions, another vibrant aspect of culture was the continued documentation of the present and history.

“These manuscripts hold science, medical systems, music, philosophy, and, most importantly, a vision that can illuminate the future of humanity. Friends, it is our collective responsibility to preserve this extraordinary wisdom and heritage,” he said.

Mr Modi said in every era of the country, there have been people who have dedicated their lives to this cause, and one such inspiring personality was Manimaran from Tamil Nadu’s Thanjavur.

“He felt that if today’s generation does not learn to read Tamil manuscripts, then this priceless heritage might be lost in the future. So, he started evening classes where students, working professionals, and researchers all came to learn,” Mr Modi said in the message broadcast.

Manimaran taught people how to read and understand Tamil Suvadiyial, that is, palm-leaf manuscripts.

“Today, thanks to many efforts, many students have become proficient in this art. Some students have even started researching traditional medicine systems based on these manuscripts. Friends, imagine if such efforts happened across the country — then our ancient wisdom wouldn’t remain confined within walls. It would become a part of the new generation’s consciousness,” he said.

He also recalled that the Gyan Bharatam Mission, announced in the Budget this year, was inspired by this very idea. Under this mission, ancient manuscripts will be digitised. Then, a national digital repository will be created where students and researchers worldwide can connect with Bharat’s rich knowledge tradition.

“I urge you all, if you are involved in or want to join such efforts, please reach out to MyGov or the Ministry of Culture, because these are not just manuscripts. They are chapters of Bharat’s soul that we must pass on to future generations,” he said.