The Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Shimla, commenced a three-day National Seminar on “Guru Parampara and Indian Knowledge Tradition”, with the Hon’ble Governor of Bihar, Arif Mohammed Khan, inaugurating the event as Chief Guest.
In his keynote address, Governor Khan highlighted the timeless relevance of India’s guru-shishya parampara, calling it a living tradition that continues to guide spiritual and ethical growth. He emphasized that this legacy has played a vital role in preserving wisdom and moral values across generations and must be integrated into modern education to meet global challenges.
The ceremony began with the traditional lighting of the lamp, followed by addresses by dignitaries including Pujya Swami Paramatmananda Saraswati, founder of Arsha Vidya Mandir, Prof. K. Gopinathan Pillai, seminar convener, and Mehar Chand Negi, Secretary, IIAS.
Prof. Raghavendra P. Tiwari, Director, IIAS, joined virtually, stressing the importance of revisiting India’s knowledge traditions in contemporary academic discourse. Prof. Shailendra Raj Mehta, Vice-Chairman of IIAS, also addressed participants virtually, advocating for the integration of traditional wisdom within modern curricula.
, in his keynote address, said, “True knowledge transcends academics—it must nourish the soul, guide ethics, and enrich lives.”
The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Mehar Chand Negi and the National Anthem, reflecting unity and respect for Indian heritage. The seminar will continue with panel discussions, lectures, and scholarly interactions aimed at reviving the spiritual and educational depth of the Guru Parampara.
