World’s Longest Handwritten Bible to Be Unveiled in Thrissur

Thrissur, Dec 2025 : A remarkable spiritual and cultural milestone will be witnessed in Kerala on Sunday with the unveiling of the world’s longest handwritten Bible, an extraordinary manuscript stretching nearly 100 kilometres. The historic unveiling will be carried out by Cardinal Mar George Koovakkad at Thrissur, marking a significant highlight of the 2025 Jubilee Year celebrations.

The ambitious project has been jointly undertaken by the Kerala Catholic Youth Movement (KCYM), Thrissur Archdiocese, and the Sacred Heart of Our Lady of Sorrows Basilica Pilgrim Centre. The initiative also commemorates the centenary of the Thrissur Basilica, one of the most revered pilgrimage centres in the state, making the occasion doubly significant for the faithful.

The Bible has been meticulously handwritten by 2,025 participants, symbolising collective devotion, unity, and faith. Organisers said the project reflects not only religious commitment but also extraordinary discipline and patience, as contributors carefully transcribed sacred scripture over an extended period.

Unlike conventional manuscripts, the Bible has been written using a special pen on a unique cloth-like material. This material was selected for its durability and flexibility, enabling it to be rolled, preserved, and displayed for generations. The innovative format allows the massive text to be stored compactly while remaining accessible to readers.

Speaking about the structure of the manuscript, Rev. Fr. Gio Cheradai explained that the handwritten cloth has been mounted on rollers, allowing readers to scroll through the scripture. “The written cloth material can be rolled up, and anyone wishing to read it can do so by turning the roller. There are around 12 reels in which the entire Bible has been arranged. This unique creation will be housed inside the Bible Tower,” he said.

The unveiling ceremony is scheduled to take place at 8.30 a.m. in the courtyard of the Sacred Heart of Our Lady of Sorrows Basilica. Along with the formal release, the organisers will receive the Best of India Record, recognising the manuscript as the world’s longest handwritten Bible.

Rev. Fr. Thomas Kakassery, Rector of the Basilica, said the initiative was conceived as a spiritual offering during the Jubilee Year and as a tribute to the Basilica’s 100-year legacy of faith and service.

Adding a symbolic final touch, Cardinal Mar George Koovakkad, the guest of honour, will write the concluding sentence of the Bible, formally declaring the completion of the historic work. The event is expected to witness large participation from clergy, youth organisations, and devotees, making it a landmark moment in Thrissur’s religious and cultural history.

Team Maverick.