Ancient Quran neglected in Kakinada

Kakinada: A holy Quran scripture belonged to the period of Mughal emperor Akbar the Great was lying in state of neglect at Archeological Museum here.

Out of total nine volumes of manuscripts, seven are being eaten by termites. The partially eaten two volumes of the scripts are also not displayed for public view but kept in iron safe for security reasons.

The museum authorities, apparently after the enquiries made by 'The Hans India,' now showcased the two partially decayed volumes for visitors. The 10-volume set of manuscript is collected by Nizam Nawab. Andhra Sahitya Parishad handed over the book to Archeological Museum in 1973.

While nine books were displayed in museum here, another one was displayed in Eluru museum. However, due to lack of security, the books were restricted to iron safe since 1987.

Archaeology Department Assistant Director K Timmaraju said the manuscript may be written either in Parsi or Arabic language. Going by this, it is evident that no effort was being made by the Archeology Department to share information relating to the scripts. On the other hand, no attempt was made to expose the scripture to students and researchers by displaying it in museum.

The scripture embossed in antique gold is neglected and lying in the state of neglect. The rare collection, which belonged to 1550 -1600 AD, was handed over to Andhra Sahitya Parishad by Madras Presidency in 1892.

The manuscript was transcribed by renowned calligraphist Ali-Ai-Kitab. It contains excellent paintings of Akbar's school and each page has delicately drawn margins with floral designs in gold. The first page contains three seals of them two are illegible while the third bears the name of Farrukhsiyar.

Timmaraju said that due to paucity of funds they are unable to preserve these scripts. If the Central government allocate sufficient funds, those manuscripts will be preserved for posterity, he added.