The Indian Constitution, one of the lengthiest and most detailed in the world, was not only carefully drafted but also beautifully handwritten. Unlike printed constitutions in many other countries, the original Indian Constitution was meticulously inscribed by hand in both English and Hindi. This handwritten document is considered a national treasure for its legal, historical, and artistic significance. A key figure responsible for the calligraphy of the English version was Prem Behari Narain Raizada, a master calligrapher whose elegant handwriting immortalized the words of India’s founding charter.
Prem Behari Narain Raizada: The Calligrapher of the Constitution
Prem Behari Narain Raizada, an accomplished Indian calligrapher, was entrusted with the delicate task of hand-writing the Indian Constitution in English. Known for his refined penmanship using a traditional nib pen and black ink, Raizada’s work turned a legal manuscript into a work of art. He came from a family of calligraphers and had studied at St. Stephen’s College in Delhi, mastering both language and handwriting.
Why Raizada Was Chosen
Raizada was selected by the Constitution drafting committee due to his reputation as a skilled and trustworthy calligrapher. When asked about his fee, he refused monetary compensation and instead requested the honor of signing each page of the Constitution with his name. This personal touch is visible at the bottom of every page of the original English manuscript.
Process of Handwriting the Constitution
- Medium: The document was written using a fine nib pen with black ink made from charcoal soot mixed with gum and water.
- Time Required: It took approximately six months to complete the entire English version by hand.
- Number of Pages: The final version had 251 pages in English, written on high-quality parchment paper.
- Artistic Borders: Each page was decorated with intricate borders and motifs designed by renowned artist Nandalal Bose and his team from Santiniketan.
The Hindi Version and Its Scribes
While Prem Behari Narain Raizada wrote the English version, the Hindi version of the Constitution was also handwritten with equal care and attention to detail. The task was carried out by several scholars and scribes proficient in calligraphy. Though their names are less well-known, their work contributed to the dual-language legacy of the Indian Constitution.
Importance of the Hindi Version
- Ensured that the Constitution was accessible to the Hindi-speaking population.
- Reinforced the multilingual and inclusive nature of the Indian Republic.
- Equally adorned with artwork and intricate designs reflecting Indian heritage.
Both versions the English by Raizada and the Hindi by unnamed but skilled scribes are preserved today as invaluable artifacts of India’s democratic birth.
The Artistic Contributions of Nandalal Bose
To make the document visually symbolic of Indian culture, Nandalal Bose, one of India’s greatest modern artists and a disciple of Rabindranath Tagore, was invited to illustrate the Constitution. Bose, along with his team of artists, added stunning border designs, motifs, and emblems to each page.
Artistic Elements Incorporated
- Historical themes such as Vedic culture, the Mughal period, and India’s freedom struggle.
- Illustrations of Indian deities, nature, and mythology across different pages.
- Decorative elements that combined tradition with modernity, enriching the document’s appearance.
This collaboration between law and art turned the Constitution into a fusion of governance and Indian aesthetics, emphasizing that it was not only a political document but also a cultural one.
Significance of the Handwritten Constitution
The decision to handwrite the Constitution, rather than simply type and print it, was symbolic and intentional. It reflected the gravity of the task at hand and the respect the framers had for the democratic foundation they were laying. The handwritten Constitution represents a blend of India’s legal vision and its rich heritage in calligraphy, art, and craftsmanship.
Why Handwriting Matters
- Symbolizes care, intention, and human touch in crafting national values.
- Acts as a lasting tribute to those who contributed to the freedom and governance of India.
- Creates a unique and unrepeatable artifact preserved in the Parliament Library.
Preservation and Display
The original hand-written Constitution is kept in a special helium-filled case in the Parliament of India. The preservation techniques ensure that the delicate parchment, ink, and artwork remain protected for future generations. Public replicas are often displayed in museums and exhibitions to showcase this masterpiece to citizens and students alike.
Modern Replications
High-quality reproductions of the Constitution are used in government institutions, courts, and educational institutions across India. These versions maintain the original layout, script, and artistic borders, preserving the spirit of the document’s form and function.
Legacy of Prem Behari Narain Raizada
Though his contribution was largely unrecognized in popular history for many years, Prem Behari Narain Raizada’s role has gained attention in recent decades. His graceful penmanship and selfless service continue to inspire artists, writers, and patriots. He proved that even in a technical age, craftsmanship and pride in one’s work hold immense value.
Recognition in Recent Times
- Featured in documentaries and books about India’s Constitution-making process.
- Schools and art institutions have highlighted his work to promote the art of calligraphy.
- His work is often cited in debates about preserving handwritten texts in a digital age.
The Indian Constitution was handwritten in English by Prem Behari Narain Raizada, whose artistry and patriotism gave India a truly unique founding document. Alongside him, dedicated scribes penned the Hindi version, and artists like Nandalal Bose elevated the manuscript with cultural brilliance. Together, they created not just a legal charter but a symbol of India’s values, history, and identity. Handwritten with devotion and designed with tradition, the Indian Constitution stands as a living testament to the unity and diversity of the world’s largest democracy.