Wellcome Collection Returns Historic Jain Manuscripts to Community
Wellcome Collection announces return of historic Jain manuscripts held since the colonial era
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
The Wellcome Collection in London has announced the return of over 2,000 Jain manuscripts, believed to be the largest collection outside South Asia, after more than a century in its possession. This decision follows collaboration with the Institute of Jainology and aims to enhance access to these culturally significant texts for researchers and the Jain community.
- 01The collection includes manuscripts from the 15th to 19th centuries, covering various topics in Prakrit, Sanskrit, Gujarati, Rajasthani, and early Hindi scripts.
- 02Among the manuscripts is a rare 16th-century copy of the 'Kalpasutra' and a fragile 1688 medical treatise, 'Vaidyamanotsav'.
- 03A memorandum of understanding was signed between the Wellcome Trust, the Institute of Jainology, and the University of Birmingham to facilitate the return.
- 04Wellcome Collection's decision reflects a commitment to ethical restitution and collaboration with the Jain community.
- 05The manuscripts will be housed at the Dharmanath Network in Jain Studies at the University of Birmingham, enhancing research and community access.
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The Wellcome Collection, a prominent museum in London, has committed to returning over 2,000 Jain manuscripts held since the colonial era, marking a significant step in cultural restitution. This collection, which is believed to be the largest of its kind outside South Asia, includes texts dating from the 15th to the 19th centuries, written in various languages including Prakrit, Sanskrit, and early Hindi. Notable items include a 16th-century illustrated 'Kalpasutra' and a fragile 1688 medical treatise. The decision follows extensive dialogue with the Institute of Jainology and aims to enhance access for researchers and the Jain community. A memorandum of understanding was signed with the University of Birmingham, where the manuscripts will be housed, ensuring that they are preserved and made accessible for future generations. This initiative is part of Wellcome Collection's broader commitment to ethical management of its collections and recognition of the historical injustices associated with their acquisition. The return of these manuscripts is seen as a pioneering model for other institutions engaged in similar restitution efforts.
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The return of these manuscripts enhances cultural heritage access for the Jain community and promotes research opportunities.
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