Original copy of Indian Constitution to be on display

It has signatures of Jawaharlal Nehru and Dr B R Ambedkar

Come April 14, Mysoreans will get a one time opportunity to get a glimpse of the original bound copy of ‘The Constitution of India’. The copy is the prized possession of Sarada Vilas Educational Institution (SVEI).

On the occasion of 123 birth celebrations of Ambedkar and to mark Institute completing its 150 years, the historical document will be kept for public view and reference, from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm, at its premises. Interestingly, the copy was presented to the Institution founder and first principal of the college Sampige Venkatpatanaiah on July 2, 1954, four year after India became a Republic.

“For the first time we are displaying the copy for public viewing. The reason is that not many are aware about the Indian Constitution. They might have studied it only as a academic subject,” said B S Parthasarathy, President, SVEI, speaking to Deccan Herald. The book which is in good condition has been kept separately in a wooden box, wrapped in a muslin cloth.

The original copy of the Constitution of India has been compiled in lithography and has golden-polished alphabets. It contains 255 Articles and signatures of 285 members, including the signature of former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Dr B R Ambedkar, man behind the work.

Explaining why the Institution chose April 14 and not January 26, Republic Day, Parthasarathy said that not many remembered Ambedkar, who had burnt the midnight oil to draft the Constitution, which has been well accepted by the citizens of India and appreciated by the other countries. 

The Institution will also organise a poster presentation on Dr B R Ambedkar, which will depict his birth, and achievements. A film on Ambedkar will also be screened. 

“We also want to bring in people belonging to the Scheduled Caste community living around the Institution (Ashokpuram), so that they can also get a closer look of Ambedkar’s work,” he added.

The SVEI is an alma mater of H Y Sharada Prasad, advisor to former prime minister Indira Gandhi, V S Arunachalan, former Scientific Technology advisor to Government of India, Siddaramaiah, Chief Minister of Karnataka, and Infosys head Narayana Murthy.