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Find your personal palm leaf: A gateway to your past, present and future

Different kind of palm leaf scriptures
How are the palm leaves written and preserved?
Writing the palm leaves
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MaterialThe manuscripts are created from the leaves of the Talipot palm, a tree known for its large and durable leaves. These leaves are chosen for their longevity and resilience.
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PreparationThe leaves are first collected and then dried to remove moisture, making them sturdy enough for writing. After drying, they are cut into strips of uniform size.
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InscriptionThe text is inscribed using a sharp stylus, which etches the script onto the leaves. The writing is done in an ancient script called Tamil Vattezhuthu, or Old Tamil, known for its beauty and complexity.
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InkingTo make the inscriptions more visible, ink made from natural substances like charcoal or turmeric is applied over the etchings. The ink settles into the grooves, highlighting the text against the leaf’s surface.
Preservation of the palm leaves

Climate Control
The palm leaves are stored in special conditions to protect them from moisture, insects, and other damaging elements. Nadi libraries, primarily located in South India, maintain controlled environments that include appropriate humidity levels and temperature.

Treatment with Oils
The leaves are often treated with natural oils, such as camphor or neem oil, to prevent deterioration and insect infestation. This traditional method helps preserve the leaves for centuries.

Periodic Maintenance
The palm leaves are stored in special conditions to protect them from moisture, insects, and other damaging elements. Nadi libraries, primarily located in South India, maintain controlled environments that include appropriate humidity levels and temperature.

Storage
The leaves are stored in bundles, each bound together and labeled according to the category or type of reading they contain. These bundles are kept in wooden or metal boxes to protect them from physical damage and environmental factors.
Who Are the Rishis?
