LG Sinha, CM Omar hail global recognition
Srinagar, Nov 6: Kashmir’s 12th-century historical chronicle, Rajatarangini, written by historian Kalhana, has been inscribed in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register, bringing global recognition to the Valley’s rich intellectual and historical heritage.
The Mahabharata and Kautilya’s Arthashastra are the other two Indian works included in the prestigious register, marking significant recognition of the country’s ancient knowledge traditions.
The 12th-century manuscript of Rajatarangini, preserved at the Oriental Research Library in the Sri Pratap Singh Library Complex, Srinagar, is regarded as one of the most important historical records of Kashmir. The inscription has been welcomed by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who described it as a moment of pride for Jammu and Kashmir and the nation.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today congratulated the people of Jammu and Kashmir on the inscription, saying the international recognition had brought global attention to the region’s rich civilisational legacy and enduring contribution to history and literature.
In a statement, the Chief Minister said the historic manuscript was an invaluable repository of Kashmir’s history, offering a remarkable account of its rulers, society, traditions and cultural evolution.
He observed that Kalhana’s Rajatarangini, regarded as one of the earliest systematic historical chronicles of the Indian subcontinent, held a special place in the region’s literary and intellectual heritage.
Omar Abdullah said the inscription on the UNESCO regional register also underscored the importance of safeguarding invaluable manuscripts and historical records for future generations.
He added that the recognition would further strengthen efforts to preserve, document and promote Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural heritage while enhancing its visibility on the international stage.
In a post on X, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said the inclusion of Rajatarangini celebrated Jammu and Kashmir’s rich intellectual heritage and reaffirmed the timeless value of India’s civilisational traditions and their contribution to humanity.
He also emphasised the collective responsibility to preserve and promote this invaluable knowledge for future generations.
Written in Sanskrit by Kalhana between 1148 and 1149, Rajatarangini is a metrical historical chronicle that documents the rulers of Kashmir and traces the region’s history from ancient times to the period of its composition.
The work is widely regarded as one of the most significant historical accounts of medieval Kashmir, distinguished by Kalhana’s efforts to consult a range of sources, including earlier royal chronicles, family records, inscriptions, coins, temple remains, land grants and local traditions.
Kalhana also drew upon his proximity to the royal court, as his father and uncle were associated with it, giving him access to details of contemporary political developments and court intrigues.
Although parts of the chronicle, particularly its accounts of the early period, contain legendary and idealised elements, its extensive use of historical sources makes it an invaluable record of Kashmir’s past.
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal also welcomed the inscription, saying India’s timeless wisdom had received global recognition and its knowledge traditions continued to resonate across generations and borders.
