Hansraj College’s Bharatiya Jnana Parampara Kendra, in collaboration with the Department of Philosophy, hosted a national seminar to delve into the life, ideals, and contemporary relevance of Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya. The seminar provided a platform for scholars and students to engage with the profound philosophical contributions of one of India’s most influential thinkers.
Celebrating a Visionary Thinker
Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya was an Indian politician, a proponent of integral humanism ideology and leader of the political party Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS), the forerunner of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).Upadhyaya started the monthly publication Rashtra Dharma, broadly meaning ‘National Faith’, in the 1940s to spread the ideals of Hindutva revival.
Upadhyaya is known for drafting Jan Sangh’s official political doctrine, Integral humanism,Upadhyaya is known for drafting Jan Sangh’s official political doctrine, Integral humanism, by including some cultural-nationalism values and his agreement with several Gandhian socialist principles such as sarvodaya (progress of all) and swadeshi (self-sufficiency).
Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya was a visionary philosopher, sociopolitical thinker, and a pivotal figure in Indian political history. As a co-founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the precursor to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), his philosophy of integral humanism laid a unique foundation for India’s political and social framework. The seminar aimed to illuminate his ideas and explore their applicability in today’s rapidly changing socio-political environment.
Distinguished Guests and Thought-Provoking Insights
The seminar featured prominent speakers, including Chief Guest Professor Inder Singh Thakur, Director at the Centre for Deen Dayal Upadhyay Studies, Central University of Himachal Pradesh, and Keynote Speaker Dr. Mahesh Chandra Sharma, President of Ekatm Manavdarshan Anusandhan Evam Vikas Pratishthan and former Rajya Sabha member. Dr. Rama, Principal of Hansraj College, served as the event’s patron.
- Dr. Mahesh Chandra Sharma’s Address
Dr. Sharma’s keynote address provided a rich tapestry of historical context, emphasizing Pt. Deendayal’s critique of Western individualism contrasted with the collectivist ideologies of communism and socialism. He highlighted Pt. Deendayal’s advocacy for “aatmavad,” a philosophy rooted in self-awareness and spiritual values unique to Indian tradition. Dr. Sharma urged the audience to actively champion Pt. Deendayal’s teachings, emphasizing their potential to shape national policies that resonate with India’s cultural ethos.
“Pt. Deendayal’s philosophy is not just a relic of the past but a dynamic framework that addresses contemporary challenges. By embracing his vision, we can foster a society that values responsible citizenship and cultural integrity,” Dr. Sharma asserted.
- Prof. Inder Singh Thakur’s Reflections
Prof. Thakur’s engaging speech drew parallels between Pt. Deendayal’s vision and today’s socio-political landscape. He underscored the cohesive foundation that Pt. Deendayal’s ideals provide for a unified India, stressing their enduring relevance. Prof. Thakur highlighted the need for individuals to internalize these principles, seeing them as guiding lights for nurturing responsible citizenship and preserving India’s rich cultural legacy.
“Pt. Deendayal’s principles are more than historical artifacts; they are beacons for contemporary society, guiding us towards a future where Indian values and unity prevail,” Prof. Thakur noted passionately.
Seminar Themes and Discussions
The seminar’s central theme revolved around understanding and propagating Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya’s ideals in contemporary times. Discussions focused on how his philosophy of integral humanism, which advocates a balanced approach to individual and collective well-being, can guide modern policies and societal norms.
Participants engaged in lively debates, exploring how Pt. Deendayal’s ideas could address current issues such as economic inequality, cultural erosion, and political fragmentation. The seminar highlighted the practical applications of his thoughts in fostering a holistic development model that aligns with India’s spiritual and cultural values.
Conclusion and Impact
The national seminar on “Pt. Deendayal Upadhyay: His Ideals and Contemporary Relevance” was a significant intellectual event that underscored the lasting impact of Pt. Deendayal’s philosophy. The insights provided by Dr. Mahesh Chandra Sharma and Prof. Inder Singh Thakur enriched the understanding of his ideals among attendees, encouraging a deeper engagement with his teachings.
The seminar concluded with a call to action for participants to integrate Pt. Deendayal’s principles into their personal and professional lives. By doing so, they can contribute to a society that upholds the essence of Indian ethos and meets the demands of the contemporary world.
In a time of rapid change and global influence, the seminar at Hansraj College reaffirmed the timeless relevance of Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya’s vision. It inspired attendees to reflect on and adopt his philosophy, ensuring that his ideas continue to guide India’s path towards a harmonious and prosperous future.
