LUCKNOW, May 14 -- Rare centuries-old manuscripts on Mughal philosophy, Ayurveda, elephant healthcare and the Ramcharitmanas became the centre of attraction as the Uttar Pradesh State Archives celebrated its 77th Foundation Day with a national seminar and exhibition aimed at reconnecting young people with India's intellectual and cultural heritage. The event, organised at Shaheed Smriti Bhavan in Lucknow, drew nearly 200 students and researchers from institutions including Lucknow University, Banaras Hindu University and Dr Shakuntala Mishra National Rehabilitation University. With the theme 'Importance of Manuscripts in Indian Knowledge Tradition and Their Relevance for Future Generations', the programme focused on preserving archival heritage and encouraging students to engage with India's centuries-old knowledge systems. A special exhibition featuring around 50 rare manuscripts emerged as the highlight of the event. Among the most discussed exhibits was Sirr-e-Akbar, a Persian manuscript written by Mughal prince Dara Shikoh around 1656-57, containing translations of 50 Upanishads. Visitors also showed keen interest in Vaidyak Ramvinod, a Hindi manuscript dating back to 1663 that documents treatments for 201 diseases, reflecting India's traditional medical practices. Another attraction was Purushottam Mahatmya, a nearly 200-year-old palm-leaf Sanskrit manuscript based on stories of Lord Vishnu from the Skanda Purana. The exhibition also showcased Gaj Chikitsa, a Sanskrit text on elephant healthcare, and an illustrated manuscript of the Ramcharitmanas. Tourism and culture minister Jaiveer Singh said manuscripts are among India's most valuable intellectual resources and preserving them is essential for connecting future generations with the country's civilisational roots. "We want young people to see archives as living centres of knowledge rather than closed repositories. UP is expanding digitisation and research access so that more students can engage with this heritage," he said. Additional chief secretary (tourism, culture and religious affairs) Amrit Abhijat said researchers from countries, including the UK, US, Germany and Canada, have visited the UP State Archives for academic study. Chief guest Prof Ajay Taneja, vice-chancellor of KMC Language University, said India's manuscript tradition spans nearly 6,000 years and remains a vital source of historical and cultural knowledge....