A unique manuscript of the Ramayana, dating back 300 years, distinguishes itself not by commencing with the familiar sacred syllable 'Om,' but with 'Bismillah-ir-Rahman-ir-Rahim,' a revered Islamic phrase meaning "In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful." This extraordinary Ramayana, a testament to India's rich composite culture, resides in the Rampur Raza Library, a treasure trove of 17,000 ancient manuscripts.
This specific Ramayana, penned in Persian, was translated by Sumer Chand during the reign of the Mughal emperor Farrukhsiyar around 1715 AD. Its journey to the Rampur Raza Library occurred in the 19th century, during the rule of Nawab Yusuf Ali Khan. The manuscript is not merely a translation; it is a work of art, adorned with exquisite paintings and calligraphy that reflect the cultural milieu of the era. The use of gold water in the writing further emphasizes the manuscript's value and the reverence with which it was created.
The inclusion of 'Bismillah' at the beginning is particularly noteworthy. It signifies an attempt to bridge cultural and religious divides, reflecting a period in Indian history where syncretism and mutual respect were often encouraged. Dara Shikoh, the son of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, was known for his deep interest in comparative religion and philosophy. He translated Hindu scriptures, including the Upanishads and the Ramayana, into Persian. This act of translation made these texts accessible to a wider audience and fostered a greater understanding between different religious communities.
The Rampur Raza Library recognized the significance of this unique Ramayana and published its Hindi translation in three volumes. This translation project was undertaken by Prof. Shah Abdus Salam and Dr. W.H. Siddiqui, highlighting the library's commitment to making this cultural treasure accessible to a broader Indian audience. In 2016, the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, presented a reproduction of this rare Persian manuscript to the Iranian President, Dr. Hassan Rouhani, during his visit to Tehran. This gesture underscored the manuscript's importance as a symbol of shared cultural heritage and goodwill between nations.
This Ramayana serves as a potent reminder of the shared cultural threads that bind communities together. It exemplifies how religious texts and stories can be reinterpreted and reimagined across different cultural contexts, fostering understanding and harmony. The manuscript’s existence challenges narrow interpretations of history and religion, instead promoting a more inclusive and syncretic understanding of India's past. It demonstrates how individuals and institutions can play a vital role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage, fostering dialogue, and strengthening social bonds.
