What is the significance of the 8th International Ramayan Conference at IIT Roorkee?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Celebration of cultural heritage: Emphasis on the significance of the Ramayana.
- Focus on modern relevance: Discussions on education, sustainability, and ethical leadership.
- Collaboration: Joint organization by IIT Roorkee and Shri Ramcharit Bhavan, USA.
- Research contributions: Approximately 150 research papers will be presented.
- Publication: Proceedings to be released in an e-book format.
Dehradun, December 18 (NationPress) In an extraordinary event, the eighth International Ramayan Conference has commenced at IIT Roorkee on Thursday, celebrating the nation's profound cultural and civilizational legacy while reflecting on the esteemed Hindu text, the Ramayana.
The three-day event will focus on the Ramayana's significance in education, sustainability, and ethical leadership, attracting scholars, saints, and researchers from both India and overseas to engage in discussions concerning Indian Knowledge Systems.
Approximately 150 research papers will be showcased in a blended format, with the proceedings compiled into an e-book.
The 8th International Ramayan Conference, under the auspices of IIT Roorkee, aims to underscore the lasting significance of the RamCharit Manas and Indian knowledge traditions in modern contexts such as education, sustainability, and ethical leadership.
During the event, IIT Roorkee director Prof K K Pant remarked that the institute's “Kul geet” draws inspiration from the Chaupai of Ramcharit Manas.
He emphasized that the lines “Parhit Saras Dharma nahi Bhai” from RamCharit Manas and “Sarjan hit Jeevan nit arpit” from the Kulgeet of IIT Roorkee highlight the importance of societal service.
The three-day conference is a collaborative effort by IIT Roorkee and Shri Ramcharit Bhavan, USA, uniting scholars, saints, and Ramayana enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds.
The inaugural session was graced by Ashirvachan from Mahamandeleswar Swami Hari Chetnanand Ji, who discussed the timeless importance of the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and other scriptures for character development and inner peace in a modern world dominated by technology and materialism.
He commended the efforts of IIT Roorkee and Shri Ramcharit Bhavan for convening saints and scholars along the Ganga River and described the Ramayana as a comprehensive guide to life, teaching values of sacrifice, devotion, guru-bhakti, and social harmony.
The inaugural ceremony also featured the launch of the “Gita Shabda Anukramanika”.