PM Narendra Modi Criticises ‘Colonial Mindset’; Highlights Manuscript Preservation At Gujarat Event

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday criticised the ‘colonial mindset’ of earlier governments, stating that it led to the neglect of India’s manuscript heritage, as he inaugurated the Samrat Samprati Museum at Koba Tirth in Gandhinagar on Mahavir Jayanti.

Addressing a gathering, the Prime Minister said preserving ancient manuscripts should have been a national priority after Independence, but it was overlooked. He added that the government is now working to correct this through focused efforts.

PM Modi highlighted the Gyan Bharatam Mission, aimed at conserving manuscripts through digitisation, scientific research, and chemical preservation, while encouraging public participation in documenting historical texts.

The Prime Minister said the museum, located within the Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra campus, will serve as both a centre of worship and a hub for cultural preservation, safeguarding artefacts of the Jain community for future generations.

Describing Koba Tirth as a place of spiritual discipline and learning, he noted its long-standing traditions of study, devotion, and knowledge, calling it a confluence of India’s civilisational values.

Referring to history, the Prime Minister said that while many rulers abandoned ideals when in power, Samrat Samprati upheld non-violence, a legacy reflected in the museum. He said the museum reflects India’s unity in diversity, showcasing traditions like the Vedas, Puranas, and Ayurveda.

The Prime Minister also credited Jain saints, including Acharya Padmasagarsurishwarji, for preserving manuscripts.

Officials said the museum traces Jainism’s journey through seven galleries with rare artefacts and digital displays.

With over 2,000 artefacts and 3,00,000 manuscripts, it stands as a major cultural repository.

The Prime Minister also highlighted initiatives such as museums at Lothal and Vadnagar, stating that authorities are now pursuing such projects beyond political considerations to preserve the nation’s legacy.

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