Dr. Zakir Husain Library, Jamia Millia Islamia organizes a special exhibition on ‘The Holy Quran’; showcases 35 rare and scientifically preserved manuscripts; features printed editions in several foreign and Indian languages
March 13, 2026: A special exhibition titled ‘The Holy Quran,’ during the blessed month of Ramadan, celebrating the intellectual, artistic, and spiritual heritage associated with the sacred text, opened at The Dr. Zakir Husain Library of Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) yesterday. The exhibition showcases thirty-five rare and scientifically preserved Quran manuscripts, dating from the 15th century to the early 20th century, reflecting diverse Islamic calligraphic traditions and artistic illuminations. A series of curated posters illustrating the evolution of Quranic calligraphy from the 7th to the 14th century are also on display, offering visitors a comprehensive visual insight into the historical development of Quranic script styles. The exhibition will remain open to visitors until March 18, 2026.
The special exhibition was inaugurated on March 12, 2026, by Prof. Mazhar Asif, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, JMI, along with the Registrar of JMI, Prof. Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi, in the presence of Prof. Ahteshamul Haque, Controller of Examination, JMI; Prof. Neelofer Afzal, Dean of Students’ Welfare, JMI; Prof. Md. Kamalun Nabi, Finance Officer, JMI; Dr. Vikas S. Nagrale, University Librarian, Dr. Zakir Husain Library, JMI. The exhibition witnessed an impressive turnout of Deans, Heads of Departments, Directors of Centres, the Security Advisor, Provosts of Hostels, faculty members, Jamia Schools Principals, staff, and students, all of whom expressed great appreciation of the collection and the exhibition.
In addition to the manuscripts, the exhibition features printed editions of the Holy Quran in several Indian languages, including Malayalam, Kannada, Hindi, Urdu, Tamil, and Bengali. Several international translations are also on display in languages such as Chinese, Japanese, German, French, Turkish, Russian, English, Spanish, Albanian, Myanmari (Burmese), and Persian. A Braille edition of the Holy Quran was also displayed, highlighting the library’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.
In his presidential address, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mazhar Asif highlighted the vital role of libraries in preserving and safeguarding our rich cultural and intellectual heritage. He said, “The Dr. Zakir Husain Library is committed to collecting copies of the Holy Quran in all state languages so that its message can reach a wider and more diverse audience.” He further remarked, “All heavenly scriptures convey a universal message for humanity, that of kindness, compassion, and mutual respect.” Referring to verses from the Holy Quran, Prof. Asif stated that a truly religious person respects all faiths. He commended Dr. Vikas S. Nagrale, University Librarian, and his team for their efforts in preserving the documentary heritage.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi, Registrar, JMI, applauded the digitization of Quranic manuscripts and appreciated the efforts of the library toward preserving and making these “invaluable treasures accessible to scholars and the wider community.” He emphasized the importance of not only reading the Quran but also understanding its meaning and message. He noted, “The Holy Quran serves as a complete guide for personal life, promoting peace, moral values, and ethical conduct. The Quran provides a comprehensive code of conduct for humanity and remains a timeless source of wisdom and guidance for all.”
The event also featured a guest lecture on the Holy Quran delivered by Prof. Habibullah Khan, Honorary Director of the Dr. Zakir Husain Institute of Islamic Studies. In his lecture, Prof. Khan explained that the Quran is the divine revelation from Allah and that its message is not limited to Muslims alone but meant for all human beings. He emphasized the universal values promoted by the Quran, such as justice, equity, kindness, and respect for human rights, and highlighted the ethical principles it upholds, including the clear guidance on what is permissible and forbidden in order to build a just and compassionate society.
The welcome address was delivered by Dr. Vikas Nagrale, University Librarian, Dr. Zakir Husain Library, who stated that the main aim of the exhibition on the Quran is to spread the message of the Holy Quran to all human beings, while also highlighting the importance of preserving and promoting manuscript heritage. The main objective behind organizing this program was to spread the humanitarian teachings contained in the Holy Quran to the public and promote peace, brotherhood, and awareness towards moral values in the society.
This was followed by an introduction to the Catalogue of Quran manuscripts (printed and web-based) and the library’s archival preservation and digitization initiatives by Dr. Umaima, the convener of the event.
A significant highlight of the event was the release of the Catalogue of Quran Manuscripts and Rare Printed Editions preserved in Dr. Zakir Husain Library. It includes 71 Quran manuscripts, including translations and commentaries; one Braille Quran; one lithograph manuscript inscribed on cloth; and 37 rare printed editions of the Holy Quran along with the launch of a web-based interactive catalogue, which aims to make the library’s valuable manuscript resources more accessible to national and international scholars. A short clip reflecting the in-house archival conservation and digitization activities of the library was also played during the inaugural event.
The program conducted by Mr. Johan M. Mir, Co-convener of the event and vote of thanks was proposed by Prof. Shehbaz H. Naqvi, Dr. Zakir Husain Library, JMI
