The history of a region lives not only in its monuments, ancient buildings and traditions, but also in the words preserved across generations. Old manuscripts carry the thoughts, experiences and wisdom of people who lived centuries before us. They help us understand where we came from and how our society developed. The recognition of Kalhana’s Rajatarangini in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Regional Register for Asia and the Pacific is therefore a proud moment for Jammu and Kashmir. It brings international attention to an extraordinary literary achievement while reminding us of our responsibility to preserve the region’s historical treasures.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s appreciation of this recognition reflects the importance of the manuscript to Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural identity. Preserved at the Oriental Research Library in Srinagar, Rajatarangini offers an invaluable account of Kashmir’s political, social and cultural history. Written by Kalhana in the twelfth century, the chronicle provides insights into rulers, kingdoms, traditions and the changing circumstances that shaped the region over time. What makes Rajatarangini particularly remarkable is Kalhana’s effort to understand and record the past through available historical accounts and earlier traditions. Although the work belongs to a different historical period and requires careful scholarly interpretation, it remains an important contribution to historical writing in the Indian subcontinent. Its value extends beyond the events it describes, offering readers an opportunity to reflect on governance, human behaviour, political change and the relationship between society and its history. For the people of Jammu and Kashmir, this recognition carries a deeper meaning. It reminds us that the region has a rich tradition of scholarship, literature and intellectual inquiry. Such achievements deserve appreciation not merely because they receive international recognition, but because they form an important part of our shared cultural inheritance. However, celebrating heritage and preserving it are two different responsibilities. International recognition can draw attention to a manuscript, but its future depends on the care it receives afterwards. Historical documents require suitable conservation facilities, trained specialists, proper documentation and sustained institutional support. Without these arrangements, valuable records remain vulnerable to deterioration despite their cultural importance. The preservation of Rajatarangini at the Oriental Research Library also highlights the valuable contribution of libraries and archival institutions. These establishments protect historical knowledge that might otherwise disappear with time. Their importance deserves greater public recognition, adequate resources and continued professional attention. There is also a need to bring this historical inheritance closer to younger generations. Many students are familiar with the names of important historical works but have limited opportunities to understand their significance. Universities, colleges, schools and cultural institutions can help bridge this distance through lectures, exhibitions, research programmes and accessible publications. Digitization, supported by appropriate conservation standards, can expand access to historical manuscripts while reducing the need for repeated handling of original documents. Carefully prepared translations and scholarly explanations can also make important historical works understandable to a wider readership. Another valuable lesson lies in the way we approach history itself. Kashmir’s past reflects different periods, communities, traditions and experiences. Historical understanding becomes richer when we examine these influences thoughtfully rather than reducing the past to narrow interpretations. Rajatarangini should encourage curiosity, informed discussion and respect for the complexity of our shared history. The UNESCO recognition also presents an opportunity to strengthen cultural education and responsible heritage tourism. Research institutions, libraries and museums can work together to introduce visitors and students to Jammu and Kashmir’s literary achievements while ensuring that original manuscripts remain protected. The Government should consider a long-term programme for manuscript conservation, digital cataloguing, research fellowships, translation projects and public awareness. Universities and cultural organisations should be encouraged to collaborate so that historical preservation becomes a continuing educational responsibility.
Finally, the deeper significance of this recognition lies in understanding that history is not simply a collection of events belonging to another age. It is a source of knowledge that helps societies appreciate their achievements, recognise their mistakes and approach the future with greater understanding. Kalhana’s Rajatarangini reminds Jammu and Kashmir of the intellectual richness within its own heritage. The finest tribute to this remarkable work would be to preserve it carefully, study it honestly and make its knowledge accessible to future generations. International recognition has brought the manuscript renewed attention, but lasting pride will come when our children understand why it matters. A society truly honours its past when it transforms inherited knowledge into wisdom, curiosity and a stronger sense of responsibility towards the generations yet to come.