The Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Shimla, observed the 109th birth anniversary of Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya with a solemn and intellectually enriching event as part of the nationwide celebration of Antyodaya Diwas. Held in the Pool Theatre of the Institute, the programme drew the participation of scholars, fellows, academicians, and members of the local intelligentsia to engage with the visionary’s life and thought.
The commemoration began with an invocation, traditional lamp lighting, and floral tributes to Pandit Upadhyaya, whose philosophy of Integral Humanism remains a cornerstone in the discourse of inclusive national development.
Delivering the Guest of Honour address, Professor Uma Vaidya, Tagore Fellow at IIAS, emphasized the contemporary significance of Pandit Upadhyaya’s teachings. She stated that his philosophy has the potential to inspire generations of individuals who are not only intellectually capable but also spiritually grounded, morally upright, and socially aware. She paid homage with a self-composed Sanskrit verse, lauding Upadhyaya’s dedication to the nation’s welfare and unity of humanity.
The keynote address was delivered by Professor Heeraman Tiwari, Chairman, Centre for Historical Studies, JNU, and Director, ICSSR Northern Region Centre. He elaborated on Integral Humanism as a pragmatic and inclusive framework that transcends theoretical boundaries, aiming to empower the most marginalized in society.
Professor Himanshu Kumar Chaturvedi, Director of IIAS, presided over the event and reflected on the vital alignment between the principles of Antyodaya and the academic-social responsibilities of institutions like IIAS. He highlighted the role of such institutions in sustaining India’s philosophical legacy and shaping its moral direction.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Mehr Chand Negi, Secretary, IIAS. The session was moderated by Akhilesh Pathak, Public Relations Officer, IIAS. The National Anthem marked the close of the event, reinforcing the Institute’s dedication to fostering critical dialogue on India’s enduring intellectual and spiritual traditions.
