Centre for Manuscriptology

Candidates who have successfully completed an undergraduate programme from a recognized institution and who possess basic knowledge and interest in Manuscriptology.

• Students will comprehensively examine and interpret the historical evolution of Manuscriptology in India, with special emphasis on analyzing Kerala's distinctive manuscript traditions and their contextual significance.
• Learners will demonstrate the ability to decode ancient scripts and develop proficiency in accurately reproducing Brāhmī, Devanāgarī, Grantha, Tamil, Vaṭṭeḷutt, Kōleḷutt, and Malayāḷam scripts, applying paleographic principles to varied textual materials.
• Participants will effectively implement digital methodologies for manuscript study, applying contemporary technological approaches to analyze, edit, and design conservation strategies for historical manuscripts.
• Students will critically evaluate diverse text editing methodologies, synthesize appropriate editorial approaches, and construct scholarly editions that adhere to advanced philological principles.
• Learners will analyze contemporary developments in Manuscriptology, evaluate emerging scholarly practices, and integrate current methodological innovations into their research frameworks.

• Kalady

This program is designed as an introductory bridge course to familiarize learners with the fundamentals of Manuscriptology and to help them develop the necessary skills in this specialized field. The knowledge and expertise gained through this course will empower students to explore various aspects of manuscripts and pursue advanced studies and research in Manuscriptology. The primary goal is to produce trained professionals in this highly specialized area of study. Given the vast manuscript collections found globally, especially in Kerala, there is a significant need for skilled and committed researchers to study, catalogue, edit, and preserve these manuscripts, thereby unlocking the immense knowledge and cultural heritage they contain for the benefit of society. The proposed course will provide foundational knowledge of manuscripts and Manuscriptology, along with practical training in reading and writing ancient scripts, manuscript editing, textual criticism, and both traditional and modern methods of manuscript conservation. Assessment will be based on continuous evaluation, end-of-semester exams, text editing projects, and a viva-voce.