Associated News Bureau

Omar Abdullah Hails UNESCO Recognition of Kalhana’s Rajatarangini, Calls It a Proud Moment for J&K

SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 06: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday congratulated the people of Jammu and Kashmir on the inscription of the 12th-century manuscript of Kalhana’s Rajatarangini on UNESCO’s Memory of the World Regional Register for Asia and the Pacific, describing the recognition as a significant global acknowledgement of the region’s rich historical and cultural heritage. Preserved at the Oriental Research Library in the Sri Pratap Singh Library Complex, Srinagar, the historic manuscript is an invaluable record of Kashmir’s past, documenting its rulers, society, traditions and cultural evolution. Written by the renowned historian Kalhana, Rajatarangini is regarded as one of the earliest systematic historical chronicles of the Indian subcontinent and occupies a distinguished place in Kashmir’s literary, intellectual and civilisational heritage. The Chief Minister said the UNESCO recognition was a matter of immense pride for Jammu and Kashmir, bringing international attention to its rich historical legacy and enduring contributions to literature and historical scholarship. He emphasised that the inscription on the UNESCO regional register also highlights the importance of protecting and preserving priceless manuscripts and historical documents for future generations. Omar Abdullah said the recognition would provide further impetus to efforts aimed at preserving, documenting and promoting Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural heritage, while enhancing the region’s international cultural profile. ANB