(Clockwise from left) Curator Bhagyalipi Malla studies palm-leaf manuscripts of Geeta Govinda and displays a booklet at Odisha State Museum in Bhubaneswar. Pictures by Ashwinee Pati

Bhubaneswar, Aug. 27: The rich heritage of Odisha is well known to be preserved in form of manuscripts etched on palm leaves. One of the most significant as well as captivating records inscribed on palm leaves is the celebrated poetry Gita Govinda of 12th century poet Jayadev.

Curator of the Odisha State Museum Bhagyalipi Malla today threw light on the beauty of manuscripts and illustrations of Gita Govinda at a special lecture series hosted by the National Archives of India, Bhubaneswar chapter, on its premises.

Though written in the 12th century, the Sanskrit lines of Gita Govinda were explained in Odia of ancient times for several centuries starting from the 13th century. In most cases, the scribes would include the original verse as a carving on the palm leaf and then give their annotation below. In many instances, the translators used to make collections of illustrated etchings of the poetry on the palm leaf and these used to be stored by devotees.

“In the state museum over a hundred manuscripts of Gita Govinda have been stored and preserved. The illustrated manuscripts showcase the impact Gita Govinda had on translators and artistes and also the popularity of the collections among people of ancient times,” said Malla.

She said these artistes were patronised by the royal and zamindar class in their endeavour to propagate the celebrated poetry based on Lord Jagannath in form of Krishna and his love affair with Radha.

“The illustrations have been strikingly carved out with elaborate details and intricate work though it must have been challenging to create the images of Krishna and Radha immersed in romantic pastimes. These rare collections housed by the museum are a witness to the artistic excellence of Odias from 12th to 17th century,” Malla said.

Over the years, conserving these age-old manuscripts has been a major project at the museum, said the curator. “It is essential that they are cleaned and preserved from time to time,” she said.

The National Archives of India, Bhubaneswar chapter, too, has received various private collections of palm leaf manuscripts, said Lalatendu Das Mohapatra, assistant director of the archives chapter.

“These are rare and include many manuscripts on ancient Odia poetry as well as commentary on lifestyle of those times. As a tradition, many Odia households used to have such collections. But since they cannot preserve them, they are destroyed with time. We are glad people are now coming forward to give us these valuable collections,” he said.