Muzaffar Ali and Meera Ali laud preservation efforts at The Asiatic Society

Muzaffar Ali, celebrated filmmaker and Padma Shri awardee, along with designer and producer Meera Ali, visited the historic Asiatic Society in Kolkata on April 11, and were deeply moved by the institution’s commitment to preserving and presenting rare treasures of knowledge.
Calling the experience “very inspiring and innovative,” Muzaffar Ali praised the efforts being made to restore, conserve, and share the Society’s extensive archival collection. “It is a promotion of knowledge and records that people should respect. The way it is being preserved, restored, and shown to people is a very significant effort. I congratulate all those who have contributed—even those who have worked overseas,” he said.

Echoing his sentiments, Meera Ali stressed on the importance of taking these historical collections beyond the walls of the archive. “I think it is a great effort because not only do you have to preserve all these treasures, but also digitise them and make sure they reach people who aren’t even aware that these treasures exist,” she said.
Founded in 1784, the Asiatic Society remains one of India’s most important cultural and intellectual institutions. From ancient manuscripts and rare books to paintings, coins, and scientific instruments, the Society continues to safeguard centuries of history while embracing digital initiatives to bring this knowledge to wider audiences.