Thalassery: As the 132nd death anniversary of Dr Hermann Gundert is observed on Friday, a remarkable relic of his legacy is still preserved in Thalassery in Kannur district. A 174-year-old book that stands as a testament to his dedication to the Malayalam language and education.

Dr Gundert, a German missionary, has spent his life beyond spiritual work to enrich Malayalam. He compiled the first comprehensive dictionary in the language, wrote grammar books, and launched the first printed newspaper in Malayalam. His impact on the language is both foundational and transformative.

One of the rarest of Gundert's contributions, a book titled Loka Charithra Shasthram (World History), is preserved in Thalassery. Printed at the lithographic stone (Kallach) he established in Nettur, this book discusses world history predating the Christian era. At present, the first volume is housed in the private historical collection of CSI priest Rev. G. S. Francis.

The book has been passed through generations, starting with E K Sathyavrathan, a Sanskrit scholar and successor to Gundert’s seminary efforts. It then went to his son, George Sathyasandhan, the first headmaster of Thalassery BEMP School, and eventually reached Rev. Francis through his wife, Romola, daughter of Sathyasandhan.

Interestingly, the title page refers to the book as a Chapitham, a name used for publications from the Thalassery Mission Press. The press, which began on October 23, 1845, operated until 1864 before being replaced by letterpress printing. The book was published in 1851, with the handwriting in the manuscript attributed to C. Kanyan Kittu, who supported Gundert in the press operations.

Recently, officials from the Department of Culture examined the book and appreciated Rev. Francis for preserving this invaluable artefact. History enthusiasts and students often visit to glimpse this rare piece from history.