Archive · 3 Sep 2025
Database to Document Indian Manuscripts Taken Abroad
Researchers are creating a digital database of Indian manuscripts that were taken out of India for research and trade.
These manuscripts contain a wealth of knowledge, especially in mathematics, and have contributed significantly to global understanding.
The project aims to digitize these texts, making them accessible to the public.
The initiative also includes a conference to discuss the manuscripts' impact, encouraging interest in mathematics among young people.
The goal is to connect with ancient knowledge and identify potentially useful concepts for the modern world.
SAMHiTA project launched to create a digital database of Indian manuscripts taken abroad.
The project is supported by the Ministry of External Affairs.
The database will include manuscripts from locations like Oxford and Pennsylvania Universities.
Conference titled 'South Asia’s Manuscript Traditions and Mathematical Contributions' is planned.
The initiative seeks to connect with ancient knowledge and promote interest in mathematics.
- Who
- Researchers, historians, mathematicians
- What
- Setting up a digital database of Indian manuscripts taken abroad, and a conference on the topic
- When
- Launched in 2022, Conference September 4-5
- Where
- Oxford University, Pennsylvania University and India
- Why
- To document and understand the contribution of Indian manuscripts to global knowledge, and to motivate interest in mathematics.
- Project Name
- SAMHiTA (South Asian Manuscript Histories and Textual Archive)
- Launch Year
- 2022
- Initiative led by
- India International Centre
- Supported by
- Ministry of External Affairs
- Conference Title
- South Asia’s Manuscript Traditions and Mathematical Contributions
- Conference Date
- September 4-5