Old Building of the Asiatic Society

On a quiet corner of Park Street, where history whispers from time-worn walls, stands the Old Building of the Asiatic Society. The Asiatic Society, a beacon of knowledge and a testament to the enduring human quest for understanding, was founded on January 15, 1784, by Sir William Jones. He envisioned a space where scholars could delve into the mysteries of the East. The Asiatic Society’s initial meetings took place in the Grand Jury Room of the Supreme Court, but the Society soon outgrew this space. In 1808, the Asiatic Society moved to its current home on Park Street. The two-storied building, designed with Italian influences, cost Rs 30,000 to construct. French architect Jean-Jacques Pichou refined the original plans by Captain Thomas Preston, resulting in the elegant structure we see today. The Asiatic Society building became a hub for intellectual exchange. From 1784 to 1828, membership was exclusively European. However, in 1829, a significant shift occurred with the inclusion of Indian members like Dwarakanath Tagore. This marked a turning point in the Society’s history. It became more inclusive and representative of the diverse cultures it studied. The Asiatic Society’s library holds a treasure trove of knowledge. With over 117,000 books and 79,000 journals in various languages, it’s a testament to centuries of scholarship. Its collection includes rare manuscripts, including one of the Padshah Nama bearing Emperor Shahjahan’s signature. The library’s earliest printed book is Juli Firmici’s Astronomicorum Libri from 1499. In addition to its impressive library, the Asiatic Society also housed a museum. Established in 1814, this museum initially held a diverse collection of artefacts, including a rock edict of Asoka from circa 250 BCE. Although many items were later transferred to the Indian Museum, the Asiatic Society still retains some masterpieces. These include works by renowned artists like Joshua Reynolds and Peter Paul Rubens. The Asiatic Society’s legacy extends beyond its walls. It has played a crucial role in the establishment of other significant institutions in India. These include the Indian Museum and the Geological, Zoological, and Botanical Surveys of India. The Old Building of the Asiatic Society is more than just bricks and mortar. It stands as a symbol of intellectual curiosity and cross-cultural exchange. It has witnessed centuries of scholarship and continues to inspire research and learning today. As you stand before this historic building, imagine the countless scholars and thinkers who have walked these halls, seeking to unravel the mysteries of the East.