The National Archives wants the country’s noted painters and writers to share their personal collections of letters, diaries or other items of archival value. With this aim in mind, NA is currently busy talking to over 100 eminent painters and writers based in India and abroad.
Noted historian Prof Mushirul Hasan who is now director-general of National Archives said that these Indian artists and writers are keen to donate their private collection. “A private collection might be in good shape but it is the NA which has the requisite expertise to preserving items of archival importance. Preservation by the NA will ensure a long life for items and documents received from all artists,” Prof Hasan said.
Prof Hasan took over as DG of NAI over a month ago after a long period during which this important body had no director-general. The NAI which comes under the ministry of culture, already has the personal collections of 138 well-known Indians. The collection primarily includes letters, memorabilia, diaries and photographs.
Explaining why National Archives has taken this initiative to ask artists and writers to donate their personal collections, Prof Hasan said: “The personal collections of artists comprise letters, diaries and other documents which are not available to all scholars. So, adding such private collections to the National Archives would be of immense help to scholars.”
The NAI is also in discussions with several international institutions that have collections of Indian artists or writers to bring back their works to India.
“Talks are on with the British Muesum in London as well as institutes in the West Asia that have the works of Indian artists and writers,” said Prof Hasan. He said these steps would go a long way in helping the NA expand its own collection.