Razmnama (British Library, Or. 12076)

The Razmnama (British Library, Or. 12076) refers to a specific illuminated manuscript copy of the Razmnama, a Persian translation of the ancient Indian epic, the Mahabharata. This particular copy is housed in the British Library and is cataloged under the shelfmark Or. 12076.

The Razmnama, meaning "Book of War," was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century. Akbar, known for his interest in different religions and cultures, desired to make the Mahabharata accessible to a wider Persian-speaking audience at his court. The translation was a collaborative effort involving Hindu scholars and Muslim scribes.

British Library, Or. 12076, is a significant example of Mughal painting and book production. The manuscript is lavishly illustrated with numerous miniature paintings depicting scenes from the Mahabharata. These paintings offer valuable insights into Mughal artistic styles, cultural interactions, and the portrayal of the epic’s narratives within a Mughal context. The manuscript is a valuable resource for scholars interested in Mughal history, art history, Persian literature, and the transmission of Indian epics. The manuscript's size, the quality of the paper, calligraphy and illustrations all indicate its royal provenance.