Buxar: A rare handwritten manuscript of the Guru Granth Sahib believed to be more than 100 years old has been discovered in Bihar’s Buxar district, creating excitement among historians, researchers and local residents. The manuscript was found in a Gurdwara during an ongoing heritage preservation campaign known as the “Gyan Bharatam Mission”. Officials associated with the mission said the discovery is one of the most important findings made so far and could play a major role in highlighting the district’s forgotten historical legacy.
The “Gyan Bharatam Mission” was launched to search for, preserve and protect ancient manuscripts, handwritten texts and culturally important records spread across the district. Many such documents are believed to be lying unnoticed in old homes, temples, monasteries and religious institutions for decades. During the recent search operation, officials recovered the rare manuscript of the Guru Granth Sahib, which experts say carries both religious and historical value. The discovery has drawn attention from scholars who believe such texts can provide important information about the cultural and literary traditions of earlier generations.
District Art and Culture Officer Pratima Kumari said the mission is not only focused on discovering rare books and manuscripts but also on ensuring their long-term preservation. According to her, special attention is being given to digitising the documents so that they can be safely stored and studied in the future without damaging the originals. Physical preservation work is also being planned because old manuscripts often become fragile over time due to humidity, dust, insects and poor storage conditions. Officials believe that without immediate efforts, many valuable historical documents could disappear forever.
Authorities also revealed that another ancient text of historical importance has been discovered with the support of the district magistrate and deputy development commissioner. Although details about the second manuscript have not yet been fully disclosed, officials described it as a valuable addition to the district’s growing archive of historical material. Historians have welcomed the discoveries and said they show that Buxar may still hold many hidden treasures connected to India’s cultural and intellectual past.
The district administration has now appealed to the public to support the mission by sharing information about old manuscripts, family records or handwritten texts that may still be preserved in their homes. Officials said community participation is necessary to save the region’s intellectual heritage from being lost. The administration hopes the campaign will eventually help establish Buxar as an important centre for culture, history and heritage conservation in Bihar. The recent discoveries have already increased public interest in the mission and encouraged conversations about the importance of protecting historical documents for future generations.
