India’s spiritual heritage takes centre stage at IIAS seminar

A three-day national seminar titled ‘Guru Parampara and Indian Knowledge Tradition’, commenced at Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Shimla, today. It featured an inaugural session by Arif Mohammed Khan, Governor of Bihar, as the chief guest.

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In his speech, the Governor emphasized India’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage, underscoring the timeless significance of the Guru Parampara. He highlighted the historical insights and shared personal reflections, explaining how India’s ancient educational lineage has consistently preserved and propagated wisdom across generations.

“Our guru-shishya parampara is not merely a historical tradition, but a living practice that continues to illuminate paths towards righteous living and spiritual enlightenment.”

The Governor also stressed on the critical importance of holistic education and encouraged participants to harness India’s profound spiritual teachings in addressing contemporary global challenges.

The session began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, symbolising the dispelling of ignorance through the light of knowledge.

Distinguished dignitaries, including keynote Speaker Pujya Swami Paramatmananda Saraswati, seminar convener Prof K Gopinathan Pillai, and Mehar Chand Negi, Secretary, IIAS, were present on the occasion.

Prof Raghavendra P Tiwari, Director of IIAS, delivered a virtual welcome address, emphasizing the necessity of revisiting and revitalising traditional knowledge systems.

Seminar Convener Prof K Gopinathan Pillai presented an overview of the seminar’s theme — elaborating the contributions of the guru-shishya tradition to Indian cultural and philosophical frameworks.

In his keynote address, Swami Paramatmananda Saraswati, founder Acharya of Arsha Vidya Mandir, Rajkot, highlighted the spiritual dimensions and contemporary relevance of the tradition.