About the Shikshapatri

Composed in 1826 by Sahajananda Swami (Lord Swaminarayan), a reforming Hindu leader, the Shikshapatri provides moral and spiritual guidance for everyday life in 212 Sanskrit verses. It is read, heard and venerated daily by Swaminarayan followers.

It is believed that Sahajananda Swami himself gave this manuscript to the Governor of Bombay, Sir John Malcolm, to promote understanding between cultures.

Viewing the Shikshapatri at the Weston Library

The Shikshapatri is displayed in the Transept – the area between the two exhibition spaces in Blackwell Hall in the Weston Library.

For conservation reasons the manuscript is shown closed.

Group visits

For group visits of up to 19 people to view the manuscript, please speak to staff at the Blackwell Hall information desk or in the exhibition galleries.

Group visits of 20 people and over must be booked in advance. Contact tours@bodleian.ox.ac.uk to request your viewing.

Please note:

• we can accommodate 1 booked group per day;
• for groups of 100 people and over staffing is required, so fees will apply;
• the maximum number of visitors allowed in a single day is 300;
• requests must be submitted at least 30 days before your intended visit.