“Hindu Dharma, unlike any other religion, is knowledge-based and not dogma-based” – Swami Vigyananand

New Delhi: The Centre for Hindu Studies, University of Delhi, organised a thought-provoking one-day National Conference at the University’s Conference Centre on “Hindu Studies at the University of Delhi: Understanding Hindu Dharma and Hinduness”, to provide a platform for experts to engage in insightful discussions and debates on various aspects of Hindu Dharma and the concept of Hinduness.

The inaugural session commenced with the “Mangalacharan” and then the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, symbolising the dispelling of darkness and the ushering in of knowledge. This was followed by the Kulgeet, evoking a sense of pride and reverence among the attendees.

To foster a deeper understanding of Hindu philosophy, culture, and traditions, the conference featured an inaugural address, a keynote address, two technical sessions, and valedictory sessions. Eminent scholars and experts in the field of Hindu studies shared their perspectives on topics ranging from the historical evolution of Hinduism to contemporary interpretations of Hindu Dharma. The conference saw an impressive turnout of three hundred attendees.

Professor Yogesh Singh, the Honourable Vice Chancellor of Delhi University, delivered an enlightening inaugural address, setting the tone for the day’s proceedings. He said, “There is an urgent need to reintroduce Bharatiya vision (Drishti) and perspective (Drishtikon) to the Indian education system because its lack has led to disastrous consequences for the country and also its ecology. The Centre for Hindu Studies must fill this intellectual vacuum.”

The keynote address was delivered by Swami Vigyananand Ji, the distinguished founder and global chairman of the World Hindu Foundation, whose words resonated deeply with the audience, inspiring contemplation and reflection. He highlighted, “The Bharatiyas need to get rid of the slavery mindset owing to centuries of foreign rule and that the Hindu Dharma is intrinsically knowledge-based, not dogma-based.”

Dr Prerna Malhotra, Joint Director of the Centre for Hindu Studies, University of Delhi, mentioned in her welcome address, “Hindu Dharma is different from other religions of the world as are its fundamental principles. It must be essentially understood in its unique light. These are the principles on which the Centre aspires to work to achieve its proclaimed vision.” The Guests of Honour were Prof. Balaram Pani (Dean of Colleges, University of Delhi) Prof. Shri Prakash Singh (Director of South Campus, University of Delhi).

The technical sessions featured eminent speakers who delved into the multifaceted aspects of the Hindu Dharma. In Technical Session I, Advocate Monika Arora captivated the audience with her discourse on “the intricate relation between Sanatan and the Constitution,” while Professor Nachiketa Tiwari from IIT Kanpur elucidated on “Jnana: The Foundation of Hindu Civilization.” Prafulla Ketkar (Editor of Organiser) talked about contemporary Hindu Dharma.

Technical Session II witnessed the presence of distinguished speakers such as Professor Kapil Kumar, an eminent historian and author, whose presentation on “Psyche of Hindu Resistance: Past, Present, and Future” sparked thought-provoking discussions. Shri Chandru Ramesh, an acclaimed author and researcher, shed light on “Mahabharata: A Myth or Itihasa,” unravelling the timeless significance of this epic narrative. Finally, Shri Neeraj Atri (Author) traced the history of invasions on the Hindu psyche.

The interlude between sessions was marked by a mesmerizing musical performance, adding a touch of Bharatiya cultural enrichment to the conference. The conference culminated with the valedictory address delivered by Shri Balbir Punj, former MP, Rajya Sabha and a veteran journalist, who imparted his invaluable perspectives. He began his address by hailing the Centre as the symbol of the paradigmatic changes the country is witnessing. He said, “The pluralistic, secular, and democratic character of the Indian people and the Indian nation came essentially from the tenets of the Hindu Dharma.” He also stressed on the importance of the Divine Mother in the Hindu Dharma and how it can play an important role for women in the contemporary world.

The National Conference on “Hindu Studies at Delhi University: Understanding Hindu Dharma and Hinduness” served as a platform for scholarly exchange and intellectual discourse, enriching our understanding of Hindu heritage and fostering a deeper appreciation for its timeless wisdom.