Write short note : Saraswati Mahal Library

Answer: The Saraswati Mahal Library at Thanjavur (Tamil Nadu) is one of the oldest libraries in Asia.

• It was started by the Nayak rulers of Thanjavur and was greatly enriched by the Maratha rulers of Thanjavur, especially Raja Serfoji II (Sarfoji Raje Bhosale).
• It has a rich collection of rare manuscripts, many on palm leaves and paper, in Sanskrit, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu and other languages.
• The collection includes works on literature, music, medicine, astronomy and other subjects, along with maps, paintings and old books.
• It is an important centre for research and preserves a valuable part of India’s cultural heritage.