Gyan Bharatam Mission: How Forgotten Gond-Era Manuscript Found in Raisen's Madhya Pradesh Offers Rare Glimpse into Gaurgajgarh Kingdom
Raisen: A centuries-old manuscript documenting the history of the Gaurgajgarh (Gaurjhamgarh) kingdom has been discovered in Madhya Pradesh's Raisen district during a survey conducted under the Centre's 'Gyan Bharatam Mission'. This mission is an initiative aimed at preserving India's rich manuscript heritage through digitization.
Ankit Jain, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Bareli, identified the manuscript while conducting a district-wide survey under the guidance of Collector Arun Kumar Vishwakarma. The district administration has directed all Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) to identify, catalog, and digitize historically significant manuscripts as part of this national campaign.
Manuscript details the origins of the Gond dynasty
Officials stated that the manuscript details the origins of the Gond dynasty and the reigns of several rulers, including Bhimnag, Bhimkot, Gorakh Shah, Amar Singh, Vikram Singh, and Bhim Dev. It also describes the establishment of new settlements by King Gopal Shah and mentions historical sites such as Bari Garh, Chauki Garh, Panchmedhi, and Chhanera.
Book provides information on construction of forts, temples, ponds, and town
Subsequent chapters describe the reigns of rulers such as Ramchandra, Jagat Singh, Maharaj Singh, Durjanmal, Pratapaditya, and Yashraj, providing information on the construction of forts, temples, ponds, and towns. It also mentions conflicts with Paramara rulers and the invasion by Alauddin Khilji. The genealogy concludes with King Uday Singh (also known as Udayvardhan Singh).
The manuscript is now being documented and uploaded to the 'Gyan Bharatam' digital platform, alongside other historical information being identified across the district. Officials have appealed to citizens, temples, libraries, educational institutions, and private collectors to register any ancient manuscripts, handwritten documents, copper plates, or other historical documents in their possession via the 'Gyan Bharatam' mobile app. They stated that this initiative would help preserve India's documentary heritage and make it accessible to researchers and future generations.