Assam's first printed book, a version of the Bible, has been reprinted after 200 years and released at Guwahati Literary Festival and Book Fair.
'Dharmapustak', the Assamese version of the Bible translated by Atmaram Sarma at the initiative of the Baptist Missionary William Carey and been printed in 1813 has now been reprinted by Assam Publication Board.
The original volume comprising 864 pages was preserved at the British Library in London and the reprinted version has been edited by publisher Surya Hazarika, who obtained a digitalised image copy of the original.
Hazarika said he had got the book reprinted as it would serve as valuable study material for linguists and researchers.
The book was released by Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi at the Book Fair yesterday.
Speaking at the programme, Gogoi said the state had a rich heritage and the government was ready to help for promotion of culture and preservation of heritage.
The fair concludes today.
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