Scholars Discuss the Contemporary Relevance of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya’s Ideas at IGNCA Varanasi Book Discussion and Interactive Session
Varanasi: The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), Regional Centre, Varanasi, hosted a special Book Discussion and Dialogue Session on Samarpan, a newly released work by author Chandan Kumar that highlights the life, philosophy, and lasting contributions of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya.
The event was graced by eminent scholar of Indian Knowledge Systems and noted social thinker Shri Vidyaprasad Mishra as the Chief Guest. The session was presided over by Shri Ramashish Singh, senior Pracharak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and National Executive Member of Pragya Pravah. Author Shri Chandan Kumar was also present on the occasion.
The programme commenced with the screening of a documentary on Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya, followed by floral tributes to Bharat Mata and Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya. The formal inauguration took place with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, while Shri Brihaspati Pandey presented the traditional invocation.
Delivering the welcome address, Dr. Abhijit Dixit, Director, IGNCA Varanasi, highlighted the significance of the programme and its thematic relevance. He also felicitated the author and distinguished guests with traditional honours, including angavastras and mementos.
Speaking on the occasion, author Shri Chandan Kumar shared insights into the conception and writing of Samarpan, elaborating on the various dimensions of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya’s personality, vision, and contributions to national thought. This was followed by the formal release of the book in the presence of the distinguished guests and scholars.
In his keynote address, Shri Vidyaprasad Mishra reflected on the journey of the book’s publication, describing it as the outcome of the sustained dedication and commitment of both the author and publisher.
He particularly emphasized the element of Shivatva reflected in Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya’s life and highlighted the significance of his philosophy of Integral Humanism. He remarked that Samarpan would serve as an important resource for understanding the depth and relevance of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya’s life philosophy.
Presiding over the session, Shri Ramashish Singh observed that great personalities such as Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya emerge when ideals are translated into lived conduct.
He underlined that dedication to the nation, unwavering commitment, and the spirit of public welfare formed the foundation of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya’s life and work, adding that his example continues to inspire society even today.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Shri Swapnil Ji, who had travelled from Nagpur for the event, while the proceedings were conducted by Dr. Rajnikant Tripathi.
The programme witnessed the participation of scholars and intellectuals from across the country, including Shri V. Thillai, Dr. Anand Dhi Raja, and Shri R.R. Murgesh from Tamil Nadu; Dr. Puneet Kumar from Karnataka; Smt. Kumkum Bhardwaj from Bihar; Shri Ajay Sharma from Delhi; Shri Gautam Upadhyay from Lucknow; and Shri Bala Krishna from Andhra Pradesh, among many others.
The event also saw enthusiastic participation from senior social workers, art enthusiasts, intellectuals, research scholars, and students from Banaras Hindu University. Rich in dialogue and scholarly exchange, the programme emerged as a meaningful platform for gaining fresh perspectives on Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya’s thought and examining its continued relevance in contemporary times.
