Illuminated manuscripts are generally known to be documents of the Roman Catholic Church, as exemplified by the “Book of Kells”, which are ornately adorned. Similarly the Aztecs had their codices. India has a long tradition of illuminated manuscripts, beginning with palm leaf folios to the chronicles of emperors like the “Akbarnama”.

Illustrated manuscripts like the Kanchana Chitra Ramyana encompass lengthy stories and different landscapes within them. Through the choice of colours, facial expressions, and complexities in their styles these manuscripts display sensorial and embodied experiences of a certain place and narrative.

The Book of Gold: The Kanchana Chitra Ramayana of Banaras manuscript exemplifies this. The illustrations correspond to the beautifully calligraphed verses in Awadhi (Devanagari script) narrating Tulsi’s Manas. South Asian manuscripts over centuries have played along with textual and illustrated elements, whether it’s the 17th century Padshahnama or the Bhagavata Purana from Mewar.

Artists contribute by creating contemporary interpretations, blending traditional techniques with modern styles, making the art form accessible and relevant. Interactive installations, incorporating technology like virtual reality, offer dynamic and immersive experiences.

Read the full story that first appeared in Our Bangalore dated Dec 29-Jan 5 here: