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Artistry Behind the Indian Constitution

Exploring the Contribution of Calligraphy to India's Constitution

Artistry Behind the Indian Constitution

  • 27 Jan, 2025
  • 518

Who Wrote the Indian Constitution?

The Indian Constitution is a monumental document that serves as the foundation of the nation's governance. While it was drafted by a committee led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, it is essential to recognize the artistic contribution of a master calligrapher, Prem Behari Narain Raizada, who beautifully handwritten the final document.

Why Was the Constitution Handwritten?

Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru envisioned the Constitution as a unique artifact, opting for a handwritten format to imbue it with a personal touch. This decision reflects the significance of the document in shaping India's democratic framework.

Who Was Prem Behari Narain Raizada?

Prem Behari Narain Raizada was a distinguished calligrapher from Delhi, India. He honed his skills in calligraphy under the guidance of his grandfather and gained recognition for his exquisite handwriting style. His expertise played a crucial role in the presentation of the Constitution.

Conditions for Writing the Constitution

Raizada had one specific condition for his work: he requested that both his name and his grandfather's name be included on the last page of the manuscript. This request was honored, ensuring that his legacy was a part of India's constitutional history.

Duration and Tools Used

It took Raizada six months to meticulously complete the handwritten Constitution. He utilized special pen nibs sourced from England and Czechoslovakia, ensuring the document was crafted with the utmost precision and devoid of errors.

Type of Paper Used

The Constitution was inscribed on durable parchment paper, chosen for its longevity. This selection ensures that the document can withstand the test of time, preserving its content for future generations.

Where to See the Original Handwritten Constitution

The original handwritten Constitution of India is safeguarded in a special helium-filled case located in the Parliament House library in New Delhi. This preservation method highlights the document's historical importance.

Remembering Prem Behari Narain Raizada

Although often overlooked, Prem Behari Narain Raizada's contribution to the Indian Constitution is significant. His artistic skill in calligraphy not only enhanced the document's aesthetic appeal but also deserves recognition, especially during celebrations of Republic Day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Who was the main architect of the Indian Constitution?
Answer: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar is recognized as the main architect of the Indian Constitution, leading the drafting committee and shaping its fundamental principles.

Q2. What was the purpose of handwriting the Constitution?
Answer: Handwriting the Constitution was intended to provide a personal touch and emphasize the document's significance, making it a unique artifact in Indian history.

Q3. How did Raizada contribute to the Constitution's presentation?
Answer: Raizada's calligraphy skills brought artistic elegance to the Indian Constitution, ensuring it was not only a legal document but also a work of art.

Q4. Where is the original Constitution displayed?
Answer: The original handwritten Constitution is preserved in a helium-filled case within the Parliament House library in New Delhi, protecting it for future generations.

Q5. Why is Prem Behari Narain Raizada significant?
Answer: Raizada is significant for his artistic contribution to the Constitution, as his calligraphy reflects the document's importance and deserves recognition in India's history.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: Who led the drafting committee for the Indian Constitution?
A) Mahatma Gandhi
B) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
C) Jawaharlal Nehru
D) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: What was unique about the original Constitution?
A) It was printed.
B) It was handwritten.
C) It was digital.
D) It was illustrated.
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: How long did it take Raizada to complete the Constitution?
A) Three months
B) Six months
C) One year
D) Two years
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: What type of paper was used for the Constitution?
A) Ordinary paper
B) Parchment paper
C) Plastic paper
D) Cardboard
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: Where is the original Constitution kept?
A) Rashtrapati Bhavan
B) Parliament House library
C) National Museum
D) Supreme Court
Correct Answer: B

Question 6: What was Raizada's condition for writing the Constitution?
A) To receive payment
B) To include his name
C) To work alone
D) To use gold ink
Correct Answer: B

 

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