The Bodleian Libraries at the University of Oxford have launched a nationwide UK tour of the Shikshapatri to mark its 200th anniversary. The Shikshapatri is one of the most significant and rare Hindu scriptures. Shikshapatri, which means a letter of teachings was composed in 1826 at Vadtal in Gujarat by Sahajanand Swami.

Organised in collaboration with leaders of the Swaminarayan faith, the tour will showcase the manuscript in major temples, offering thousands the chance to view the sacred text that emphasises ethical living and spiritual guidance. Written on what is described as the fifth day of the bright half of the month,” the manuscript contains 212 Sanskrit verses summarising key teachings from Hindu scriptures.