Chair of Sri Aurobindo at Pondicherry University, in collaboration with the Government of Puducherry and under the guidance of Ministry of Home Affairs organised an inaugural seminar on ‘Celebrating the life and Philosophy of Sri Aurobindo.’ The seminar commenced with lighting of lamp and unveiling of photographs of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother.

The welcome address and introduction to objectives of the chair was given by Dr. Richa Tiwari, Chair of Sri Aurobindo. Dr. Tiwari highlighted, that the central aim of the chair will be to formulate oriented degree programs, diplomas, certificate courses, internships, webinars and workshops to contribute in the advancement of knowledge. Short-term capacity-building programmes and inter-university and inter-collegiate post-graduate and research level dialogues, discussions and meetings will also be initiated, with a view to percolate the message of Sri Aurobindo, particularly to youth and also to the society.

Sincere efforts will be initiated to effect an inner re-engineering of the mind, body and spirit based on philosophy of life and social values of Sri Aurobindo. This will be undertaken with collaboration with all stakeholders.

The opening address was delivered by Prof. B.B. Mohanty. Dean, School of Social Sciences and International Studies, Pondicherry University. He illuminated the versatile personality of Sri Aurobindo from being a Poet, Nationalist, Philosopher, Guru and Yogi.

He asserted that Sri Aurobindo's philosophy of spirituality is not confined to a particular section of society but addresses humanity as a whole.

The special address was delivered by Ms. Rishita Gupta, Officer on Special Duty, Department of Rural Development, Government of Puducherry. She shared her experience of efforts made by the Ministry of Home Affairs in contribution to the establishment of the chair of Sri Aurobindo and Pondicherry University and enthusiasm of the Government of Puducherry to propagate the vision of Aurobindo's philosophy. She also expressed how the youth should not confine Sri Aurobindo's works to book shelves and urged the youth to imbibe the energy and spirit of his works.

The Key Note Address was delivered by Mr Pradeep Narang, Chairman Sri Aurobindo Society. He expressed delight on the establishment of the much awaited chair of Sri Aurobindo at Pondicherry University and stated that spirituality is a core value of Indian culture and these values can be restored in their original spirit with understanding Sri Aurobindo's life and his vast literature. Mr Narang emphasised that It is only after the Aurobindo Chair has come, that the Pondicherry University is complete.

In his Presidential address, Prof. Gurmeet Singh, Vice Chancellor of Pondicherry University highlighted that the arena of Pondicherry is filled with the vibrant positive energy and spirit. He believes that Puducherry inspires individuals to think positively with purity of mind to achieve prosperity. He also expressed that Pondicherry University should perhaps have been named after Sri Aurobindo.

The event was followed by a book launch titled, “Sri Aurobindo: An Extraordinary Phenomenon” Edited by Dr. V. Ananda Reddy and Dr. Larry Seidlitz. As part of the seminar a panel discussion was held consisting of Dr Nanda Kishor, Department of Politics and International Studies, Dr. Beloo Mehra, Auro Bharati, Sri Aurobindo Society and Mr. ShivaKumar, Director, Sri Aurobindo Foundation for Integral Education and Research. the session was moderated by Mrs. Priti Umamaheshwaram, SAFIER. Panelists discussed Sri Aurobindo’s thoughts on new-world order, Uniqueness of Sri Aurobindo’s writings on Indian Culture and Integral Education.

The seminar had participants from various departments of the University, Sri Aurobindo society and several other enthusiasts who came from all over India.

Mr Vijay Maidergi, UGC-JRF scholar was the master of the ceremony.

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