Mon Nov 11 15:26:33 UTC 2024: ## Persian Manuscripts: A Window into Indian History and Culture
**Hyderabad, November 11, 2024:** A two-day conference at the English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU) in Hyderabad has shed light on the fascinating history and stories hidden within Persian manuscripts, showcasing their influence on both Indian historiography and culture.
The conference, organized in collaboration with the University of St Andrews, UK, featured presentations by leading researchers who explored the diverse origins of these manuscripts.
Malini Roy of the British Library highlighted the role of patronage and trade in shaping manuscript collections. She presented a collection assembled by Colonel Antoine Polier in 18th century Awadh, including a portrait of Sultan Abdullah Qutb Shah and a painting of Jama Masjid in Delhi, reflecting the growing interest in Indian architectural art.
Sunil Sharma presented a work by Amir Khusrau with a seal of Tipu Sultan, illustrating the journey of these manuscripts through various royal collections in India and their subsequent dispersal to Western countries.
Jake Benson examined the fate of manuscripts looted from the Awadh royal library in 1858, revealing how they were transported to Multan in present-day Pakistan and subsequently scattered globally, with a significant portion ending up in the UK.
The conference, which continues on November 12th, has provided invaluable insights into the rich cultural heritage encapsulated within Persian manuscripts, offering a deeper understanding of India’s history and its connections to the wider world.
First Piper 