The Bodleian Libraries at the University of Oxford has launched a UK-wide tour of the Shikshapatri manuscript to mark its 200th anniversary. The rare Hindu scripture began its bicentenary journey earlier in 2026 and will be displayed at major Swaminarayan temples across England and Wales through August, giving an estimated 20,000–30,000 people the chance to view the original text.
Composed in Vadtal, Gujarat, in 1826 by Sahajananda Swami, known as Lord Swaminarayan, the Shikshapatri — literally a letter of teachings — contains 212 Sanskrit shlokas that set out ethical and spiritual guidance. The work distils principles found in broader Hindu scripture and is recited daily by followers of the Swaminarayan faith; printed editions of the text have been produced millions of times worldwide.
The Bodleian says its copy is of particular historical importance: it is one of the oldest manuscripts believed to have been provided by the author himself. On 26 February 1830 Sahajananda Swami personally presented this copy to Sir John Malcolm, then Governor of Bombay. The manuscript has long been used to promote values such as compassion, non-violence, vegetarianism, honesty and avoidance of sinful behaviour.
Usually kept in the Bodleian’s Weston Library, the Shikshapatri’s 2026 tour is a rare opportunity to bring the object to the communities for whom it holds deep spiritual meaning. During a recent London display devotees offered prayers as confetti was showered in celebration of the manuscript’s milestone.
Dr Gillian Evison, Keeper of Asian and Middle Eastern Collections at the Bodleian, said the tour aims to honour both the Shikshapatri’s cultural significance and its enduring message of compassion and social harmony.
The Bodleian Libraries form the largest university library system in the UK, holding more than 14 million printed items across the principal Bodleian Library and 23 other libraries, along with extensive special collections of manuscripts, rare books and other materials.
