Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Dec 15: The task of digitalizing of the manuscripts found in the archives of Srikrishna Mutt here and elsewhere, was initiated on Sunday December 13, by Rashtreeya Sanskrit Samsthan, functioning under Mahabharata Samshodhana Pratishtana (Mahabharata Research Foundation) Bangalore, in association with Indian Space Research Organization and the department of culture. Digitalization of the works is being taken up to conserve the manuscripts by using modern technology.

Under the digitalization of manuscripts, manuscripts found in Mutts, temples, libraries, homes etc., will be filmed with the help of computers, by visiting the places where they are found. The originals are returned to their owners. With the help of the human resources development ministry in the union government, an ultra-modern digital mobile lab titled, ‘Samanveshak’ has been set up.

This lab is located in an air-conditioned bus, which is equipped with technological facilities including automated robotic manuscript scanner, global positioning system etc. The bus also has ‘tele-presence’ facilities to enable the concerned to contact experts at Bangalore and New Delhi instantly.

The bus houses manuscript experts, people trained in conservation techniques, experts in ancient scripts and other technicians, etc. They take care of the conservation, recording and distribution of information collected. They also collect information on the background, history, legends behind the manuscripts and other information, besides holding discussions with those who rightfully own them. All these details are then conveyed to the main centre.

In his address, Vishweshateertha Swmiji of Pejawar Mutt, who presided over the programme, felt that conservation of manuscripts tantamount to respecting the sentiments, emotional needs and religious beliefs of the original owners of these works. He appreciated the conservation of old works, taken up by the Foundation.

Paryaya Puttige Mutt Swamiji, Sri Sugunendrateertha, Mahabharata Samshodhana Pratishtana trustee, N A T S Rao, Wipro senior official Ramachandra Boodihal, Rashtreeya Samskrit Pratishtana scientific secretary, Bhaskar Narayan and Prahlad Acharya were present.