Governor of Bihar, Shri Arif Mohammed Khan, Inaugurates National Seminar on “Guru Parampara and Indian Knowledge Tradition” at IIAS, Shimla
The Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Shimla, today inaugurated a three-day National Seminar titled “Guru Parampara and Indian Knowledge Tradition,” featuring an insightful inaugural session graced by the presence of Shri Arif Mohammed Khan, Hon’ble Governor of Bihar, as the Chief Guest.
In his profound inaugural speech, Shri Arif Mohammed Khan emphasized India’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage, underscoring the timeless significance of the Guru Parampara (teacher-disciple tradition). He highlighted 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,” he noted, “is not merely a historical tradition but a living practice that continues to illuminate paths towards righteous living and spiritual enlightenment.” Governor Khan also stressed 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, symbolizing the dispelling of ignorance through the light of knowledge. Distinguished dignitaries, including Hon’ble Governor Shri Arif Mohammed Khan, Keynote Speaker Pujya Swami Paramatmananda Saraswati, Seminar Convener Prof. K. Gopinathan Pillai, and Shri Mehar Chand Negi, Secretary, IIAS, performed this traditional rite.
Prof. Raghavendra P. Tiwari, Director of IIAS, delivered a virtual welcome address, emphasizing the necessity of revisiting and revitalizing traditional knowledge systems, and extending gratitude to participants and speakers for their contributions to the scholarly discourse. Seminar Convener Prof. K. Gopinathan Pillai presented an insightful overview of the seminar’s theme, elaborating on the enduring contributions of the guru-shishya tradition to Indian cultural and philosophical frameworks.
In his Keynote Address, Pujya Swami Paramatmananda Saraswati, founder Acharya of Arsha Vidya Mandir, Rajkot, highlighted the spiritual dimensions and contemporary relevance of the Guru tradition. He emphasized that true knowledge transcends mere academic learning and encompasses the moral, ethical, and spiritual development essential for holistic human growth.
Virtual addresses were also delivered by Prof. Shailendra Raj Mehta, Vice-Chairman, IIAS, reinforcing the importance of integrating traditional wisdom within contemporary educational frameworks.
The session concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Shri Shri Mehar Chand Negi, Secretary, IIAS, followed by the National Anthem, resonating a spirit of national unity and reverence for India’s cultural heritage. The proceedings were moderated by Shri Akhilesh Pathak, PRO, IIAS Shimla.
The seminar will continue over the next two days, featuring scholarly deliberations, discussions, and reflections by esteemed spiritual leaders, scholars, and academicians, aiming to rejuvenate and explore the enduring wisdom encapsulated in India’s guru-shishya tradition.
