Prachin Lipimala

Author(s): Gaurishankar Harishchandra Ojha
Publisher: Gaurishankar Harishchandra Ojha

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INTRODUCTION
Nothing is of greater importance to those interested in the recovery of the early history of our great country than a correct knowledge of its Palæography. It must be admitted that there are no systematic records of ancient India, yet archæological relics are not wanting, such as coins, inscriptions and copper plate grants, scattered over all parts, which may prove efficacious in removing the dark veil of mystery which has enshrouded the past centuries. In the various stages of the developement of Indian alphabets, the letters underwent a great change, and hence all knowledge of the older forms was lost. So these valuable sources of historic information-these true, though silent witnesses of ancient times-fell in importance, and assumed a mystic character in the eyes of the people. In this way the history of our country has suffered much from their ignorance of the art of palæography.
Since the establishment of the Asiatic Society of Bengal in 1784 A. D' the attention of European, as well as native, scholars well versed in Sanskrit, has been turned to inscriptions, coins, and copper plate grants. Their labours have been crowned with success, so that the history of various ancient. dynasties of the Indian kings is now brought to light.
The only draw back to the general cultivation of the art of palæography in India is that the books connected with this abstruse subject, containing facsimiles, transcripts, and translations of various inscriptions, are in English and in other European languages. Besides, they are voluminous and too expensive for general use. This is why they awaken interest in the minds only of a very limited number of the natives of India, rich enough to keep splendid libraries, or living in large cities. The generality of the people can not easily gain access to them. It is to be regretted that not even a single book on the science is found published in any of the vernacular languages of the country.
To supply this deficiency, I have brought out this book on Indian Paleography in the most wide spread vernacular tongue of our country. It contains much of what is needed to enable a man to learn this art without the assistance of a teacher.