K.K. Muhammed a renownedarchaeologist and a Padma Shri awardee today launched the Bengali translation of his autobiography “এক ভারতীয়’র আত্মকথা” (An Indian I Am). The book was launched in Ramkrishna Mission, Golpark in the presence of Swami Suparnananda Maharaj, Secretary, Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture, Golpark, Mr. Partha Pratim Bose- renowned archaeologist, Swami Prahaladananda Puri- Joint General Secretary- International Vedanta Society, and Mr. Abhishek Das Chowdhury. The book has been translated by Mr. Partha Pratim Bose, Mr. Avisekh Das Choudhury & Mr. Dibban Guha and published by Dhree.
The launch of the Bengali translation of KK Muhammed’s autobiography “এক ভারতীয়’র আত্মকথা” (An Indian I Am) at Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture, Golpark was marked by an enthralling interactive session between the audience present there and Mr. KK Muhammed. It was followed by a lecture by Mr. Muhammed on “Archaeology & Conservation of Indian Heritage & Culture”
In his deeply personal and introspective autobiography, “এক ভারতীয়‘র আত্মকথা” (An Indian I Am), K.K. Muhammed, shares his remarkable life journey, spanning over six decades. From his humble beginnings in a middle-class family in Kerala to becoming one of India’s most respected archaeologists, Muhammed’s story is a testament to his unwavering dedication, perseverance, and passion for preserving India’s rich cultural heritage.
The autobiography delves into Muhammed’s early life, his struggles, and the experiences that shaped his perspective on India’s history, culture, and identity. He recounts his encounters with various historical sites, monuments, and artefacts, which not only deepened his understanding of India’s past but also instilled in him a sense of pride and responsibility towards preserving the country’s cultural legacy.
Throughout the book, Muhammed reflects on his most notable projects, including the discovery of Iabadat Khana, the restoration of the Bateshwar temple complex, the excavation of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, and the conservation of the Dantewada temples. He shares anecdotes about his interactions with various stakeholders, including politicians, bureaucrats, and local communities, highlighting the challenges and triumphs he faced during his career.
“এক ভারতীয়‘র আত্মকথা“ (An Indian I Am) is not just a personal memoir but also a chronicle of India’s post-independence history, politics, and society. Muhammed’s narrative offers a unique perspective on the country’s cultural and archaeological landscape, shedding light on the complexities, controversies, and triumphs that have shaped India’s identity.
K.K. Muhammed, was born on July 1, 1952, in Koduvally, Kerala. He completed his schooling from Government Higher Secondary School and went on to pursue his master’s degree in history from Aligarh Muslim University. Muhammed also obtained a postgraduate diploma in archaeology from the School of Archaeology, Archaeological Survey of India.
Muhammed’s illustrious career spanned over three decades, during which he served as the Regional Director (North) of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). He is credited with several notable discoveries, including Ibadat Khana, Buddhist Stupas, and monuments. Muhammed’s restoration projects include the Bateshwar Complex, Dantewada temples, and the facelift of Delhi’s monuments.
“এক ভারতীয়‘র আত্মকথা“ (An Indian I Am) is a heart-warming and inspiring story of a remarkable individual who has dedicated his life to preserving India’s cultural heritage. KK Muhammed’s innovative approach to community engagement enabled him to build trust with notorious groups in the Chambal valley and Jagdalpur, gaining access to restricted areas and conserving numerous historical monuments.
Muhammed’s Replica Museum in Delhi, established despite prevailing ideological opposition, showcases his unwavering commitment to Indian culture and civilization. His conservation efforts extended beyond monuments, as he successfully reclaimed encroached land from powerful interest groups and expanded the Archaeological Survey of India’s holdings in Delhi by approximately 40 acres.
A pioneering figure in community-driven conservation, Muhammed introduced holistic development initiatives at his project sites. These included children’s schools, adult education programs, and free food services, recognizing the intricate link between community well-being and cultural preservation.
This book has a dedicated chapter which delves into Muhammed’s experiences with the Sri Ram Janmabhoomi excavations in Ayodhya, offering a thought-provoking perspective on this significant historical site. Additionally, the book explores innovative strategies for marketing Indian heritage, presenting a business diversification model that underscores the economic potential of cultural preservation.
