Now, bid to push back antiquity of the Vedas

[Hindustani78]

Prime Minister's Office
30-April, 2018 09:50 IST
PM greets people on Buddha Purnima

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has greeted the people on the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima.

“The teachings of Lord Buddha are extremely relevant in the 21st century. His was a life devoted to alleviating suffering and removing injustice from society. His compassion has endeared him to millions. Buddha Purnima greetings to everyone”, the Prime Minister said.

***



Prime Minister's Office
30-April, 2018 17:49 IST
PM attends Buddha Jayanti Celebrations in New Delhi

On the occasion of Buddha Jayanti, Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined the celebrations at Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, in New Delhi.

He offered Sangh Dana. He also presented the Vaishakh Sammaan Prashasti Patra to the Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies, Sarnath; and the All India Bhikshu Sangha, Bodh Gaya.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister asserted that India is home to a unique heritage, where the overriding thought has always been the benefit of mankind. He said that the teachings of Lord Buddha have shaped many nations. He said India has never been an aggressor.

The Prime Minister spoke about the eight-fold path given by Lord Buddha, and said that the problems that we are facing can be overcome by following this path.

The Prime Minister said that Buddha’s message of love and compassion can be of immense benefit to the world today. Therefore, he emphasized that all those who believe in the Buddha, should unite their strengths towards this noble cause.

Shri Narendra Modi said that the Government is working with compassion to serve people, in line with the path shown by Lord Buddha. He also said the Union Government is working with an elaborate vision, to preserve the cultural heritage of India, which includes the heritage associated with Lord Buddha. He said a sum of Rs. 360 crore has been approved for the Buddhist Circuit.

The Prime Minister exhorted the gathering to make a contribution towards the New India of 2022, when the country will celebrate 75 years of freedom. He asked everyone to identify some tasks, which they could resolve to accomplish by that date.

***

Ministry of Culture
30-April, 2018 20:48 IST
Buddha Jayanti 2018 celebrations Inaugurated by the Prime Minister in New Delhi today

India is the land of Buddha, 7 out of 8 Buddhist pilgrimage sites located in India : Dr. Mahesh Sharma Teachings of Buddha are relevant even to this day not only for India but for the whole world: Shri Kiren Rijiju

On the occasion of Buddha Jayanti today , the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi joined the celebrations at Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, in New Delhi. Organised by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), the celebrations were attended by the Minister of State for Culture (I/C), Dr. Mahesh Sharma, the Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju , Ven Dr. Dhammapiya, Secretary General, International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) ; Buddhist monks and Buddhist representatives from various countries including Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Thailand as well as India among others.

The Prime Minister offered Sangh Dana and offered his respect to the sacred Holy Relics brought specially for the occasion from National Museum He also presented the Vaishakh Sammaan Prashasti Patra to the Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies, Sarnath; and the All India Bhikshu Sangha, Bodh Gaya in today’s function. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister asserted that India is home to a unique heritage, where the overriding thought has always been the benefit of mankind. He said that the teachings of Lord Buddha have shaped many nations. He said India has never been an aggressor.

Shri Narendra Modi said that the Government is working with compassion to serve people, in line with the path shown by Lord Buddha. He also said that the Union Government is working with an elaborate vision, to preserve the cultural heritage of India, which includes the heritage associated with Lord Buddha. He said a sum of Rs. 360 crores has been approved for the development of Buddhist Circuit.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister of State for Culture (I/C), Dr. Mahesh Sharma said, ‘Our Hon’ble Prime Minister- as an ambassador of Buddha’s noble philosophy of Compassion, Humanity and Love- has been successfully taking these to the countries across the world which he has been visiting. Lord Buddha not just preached but also practised what he preached. He provided human beings the vision of Humanity and Compassion which when practised can make this world a better place to live in.’ Dr Mahesh Sharma said that India is the land of Buddha and 7 out of 8 prominent sites of Buddhist pilgrimage are located in India. Highlighting the message of peace given by Lord Buddha, the Culture Minister said that we believe in Buddha and not Yuddha(War).

Present on the occasion, Minister of State for Home Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, said

“It is the current Government which has made the celebrations of Buddha Jayanti an official event and is being celebrated with such grandeur.” He also thanked the efforts of Ministry of Culture for making this event a grand success and said the teachings of Buddha given 2562 years ago, are relevant even to this day and celebrations of this kind will help take his teachings across the world.

In the end, thanking the Government of India, Ven Dr .Dhammapiya, Secretary General, International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), concluded that “Hatred is a destructive force, it causes destruction and produces nothing but suffering and disharmony that divides and engulfs people into distrust and ill will.

A definite way to peace and harmony is the practice of universal love and compassion. Love and Compassion are positive energy that can elevate human consciousness and becompassionate to all living beings.”

India is home to some sacred Buddha Relics currently housed in various museums. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), conducted excavations at Piprahwa from 1971-77, discovered two un-inscribed steatite stone caskets containing 12 relics (from the bigger casket) and 10 sacred relics (from the smaller casket). These are believed to be the sacred relics of the Buddha and are now on long term loan from the ASI to the National Museum, New Delhi. Four of these Holy relics of Buddha excavated from Piprahwa in present day Uttar Pradesh are kept at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium. These Holy Buddha Relic were brought out for the first time in a procession with religious protocol by Ven. Dr. Dhammapiya, Secretary General, International Buddhist Confederation, followed by 15 eminent senior monks and nuns of Theravada and Mahayana tradition, and placed on the special pedestal at the event. The dignitaries offered their respect to the sacred Holy Relics.

A dance theatre carrying the message of Buddhism ‘The Light of Inner Self’ was performed by the Bengal Buddhist Association , in addition to chanting of Buddhist hymns and other cultural performances.


*****

 

[Hindustani78]

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at the inauguration of Buddha Jayanti Celebrations, in New Delhi on April 30, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at the inauguration of Buddha Jayanti Celebrations, in New Delhi on April 30, 2018. The Minister of State for Culture (I/C) and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Mahesh Sharma, the Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju and the Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Shri Raghvendra Singh are also seen.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at the inauguration of Buddha Jayanti Celebrations, in New Delhi on April 30, 2018. The Minister of State for Culture (I/C) and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Mahesh Sharma and the Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju are also seen.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi offering Sangh Dana, at the inauguration of Buddha Jayanti Celebrations, in New Delhi on April 30, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi offering Sangh Dana, at the inauguration of Buddha Jayanti Celebrations, in New Delhi on April 30, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi offering Sangh Dana, at the inauguration of Buddha Jayanti Celebrations, in New Delhi on April 30, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi offering Sangh Dana, at the inauguration of Buddha Jayanti Celebrations, in New Delhi on April 30, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi presenting the Vaishakh Sammaan Prashasti Patra to the Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies, Sarnath; and the All India Bhikshu Sangha, Bodh Gaya, at the inauguration of Buddha Jayanti Celebrations, in New Delhi on April 30, 2018. The Minister of State for Culture (I/C) and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Mahesh Sharma, the Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju and the Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Shri Raghvendra Singh are also seen.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi presenting the Vaishakh Sammaan Prashasti Patra to the Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies, Sarnath; and the All India Bhikshu Sangha, Bodh Gaya, at the inauguration of Buddha Jayanti Celebrations, in New Delhi on April 30, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressing at the inauguration of Buddha Jayanti Celebrations, in New Delhi on April 30, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressing at the inauguration of Buddha Jayanti Celebrations, in New Delhi on April 30, 2018. The Minister of State for Culture (I/C) and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Mahesh Sharma and the Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju are also seen.

The Minister of State for Culture (I/C) and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Mahesh Sharma addressing at the inauguration of Buddha Jayanti Celebrations, in New Delhi on April 30, 2018.

The Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju addressing at the inauguration of Buddha Jayanti Celebrations, in New Delhi on April 30, 2018.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/nation...n-institute/article23732457.ece?homepage=true

₹360 cr. to develop Buddhist circuit in 5 States
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday honoured a prominent institute of Tibetan studies as part of celebrations to mark Buddha Purnima. At an event held in New Delhi, Mr. Modi said the issues facing the world can be solved by following the path of the Buddha.

“We are fortunate to have the teachings of Lord Buddha among us even after 2,500 years. Government has allocated ₹360 crore for the development of the Buddhist circuit. This will help in developing Buddhist spots in U.P., Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and A.P.,” Mr. Modi said after honouring the Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies (CIHTS) with the Vaisakh Samman Prasasti Patra.

CIHTS is a centrally funded institute that was started in 1967 following a discussion between Dalai Lama and Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in the early 1960s. This was later turned into an autonomous body under the Ministry of Culture. Though the Central Tibetan Administration, the authority of the Tibetans in exile has several programmes for cultural preservation, CIHTS is unique as it is a unique institution in India.

Honouring of the Tibet-related institute is perceived as an important significant step as it came a day after Prime Minister Modi returned from his bilateral informal summit with President Xi Jinping of China.

He also honoured the All India Bhikshu Sangha of Bodh Gaya.

Chalukya king Pulikeshi, who stopped the march of Emperor Harshavardhana from the north in the 7th century.

Lingayat status

According the status of a separate religion and the minority tag to the Lingayat community is being viewed as part of the regional identity plan.

The highlight here is on the native origin of Lingayatism, which was founded in the present-day Hyderabad-Karnataka region by the 12th century saint-reformer Basavanna.

 

[Hindustani78]

The Union Home Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh offering floral tribute at Lotus Parnashala, on the occasion of 19th Nava Oli Jyothirdinam celebrations, at Shanthigiri Ashram, in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala on May 01, 2018. The Member of Parliament, Shri V. Muraleedharan is also seen.

The Union Home Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh offering floral tribute at Lotus Parnashala, on the occasion of 19th Nava Oli Jyothirdinam celebrations, at Shanthigiri Ashram, in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala on May 01, 2018. The Member of Parliament, Shri V. Muraleedharan is also seen.

The Union Home Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh addressing at the inauguration of 19th Nava Oli Jyothirdinam celebrations, at Shanthigiri Ashram, in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala on May 01, 2018.

The Union Home Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh lighting the lamp at the inauguration of a civic reception to honour Philipose Mar Chrysostam Mar Thoma Vliya Metropolitan of the Malankara Syrian Church who completed 100 years of age, in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala on May 01, 2018. The Chief Minister of Kerala, Shri Pinarayi Vijayan and the Member of Parliament, Shri V. Muraleedharan are also seen.

The Union Home Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh addressing the gathering at a civic reception to honour Philipose Mar Chrysostam Mar Thoma Vliya Metropolitan of the Malankara Syrian Church who completed 100 years of age, in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala on May 01, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

President's Secretariat
12-May, 2018 20:04 IST
President of India to visit Rajasthan and Maharashtra from May 13 to 15

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, will visit Rajasthan and Maharashtra from May 13 to 15, 2018.

On May 13, 2018, the President will attend a civic reception hosted by the Government of Rajasthan in Jaipur. At the civic reception, he will interact with select beneficiaries of the Sundar Singh Bhandari EBC Self Employment Scheme; the Bhairon Singh Shekhawat Antyodaya Self Employment Scheme; and the scheme to waive off loans and interest payable by members of the SC/ST, Divyang and other deprived communities.

On May 14, 2018, the President will visit Pushkar and Ajmer in Rajasthan, before departing for Mumbai in Maharashtra.

On May 15, 2018, the President will grace the inauguration of the 4th Global Exhibition on Services and launch of the “12 Champion Services” initiative in Mumbai. On the same day, he will visit the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, be introduced to an exhibition on Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) technologies and inaugurate DAE facilities in Trombay, Mumbai.

*****

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind visiting the Holy Shrine of Hazarat Khawja Moinuddin Hasan Chishty, at Ajmer, in Rajasthan on May 14, 2018.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind during his visit to Pushkar Lake and Jagatpita Brahma Mandir, at Ajmer, in Rajasthan on May 14, 2018.

The Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, Shri Thota Narasimham calling on the Minister of State for Culture (I/C) and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Mahesh Sharma, in New Delhi on May 14, 2018.

The Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Himachal Pradesh, Shri Kishan Kapoor meeting the Minister of State for Culture (I/C) and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Mahesh Sharma, in New Delhi on May 14, 2018.

The Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Himachal Pradesh, Shri Kishan Kapoor meeting the Minister of State for Culture (I/C) and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Mahesh Sharma, in New Delhi on May 14, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

King Janak(Seeradhwaj) performed the worship of Shiva-Dhanus on this site.Shurkishordas was the founder of modern Janakpur and the great saint and poet who preached about the Sita Upasana.King Janak ruled this area (called Videha) during the Ramayana period. His daughter Janaki (Sita), during her swyambar. According to it Mata Janki is described as the daughter of Earth Goddess and adopted by King Janak and Queen Sunaina.

The temple is popularly known as the Nau Lakha Mandir (meaning "nine lakhs"). The cost for the construction of the temple was about the same amount of money: rupees nine lakhs or nine hundred thousand, hence the name. Queen Vrisha Bhanu of Tikamgarh, India built the temple in 1910 AD.Amar Singh Thapa also known as Badakaji Amar Singh Thapa.

After the death of his father in the battle for Kathmandu Valley, he received guidance and care from king Prithvi Narayan Shah, the founder of Nepal. Amarsingh Thapa played significant role in all the battles fought west of Gorkha during the rule of Bahadur Shah (24 October 1775 – 7 November 1862).

Upon Nepal’s refusal of the Sugauli treaty, in December 2, 1815, Ochterlony launched a new military campaign against Gorkhas. The British force marched successfully taking one fort after another. On Februray 29, they took the fort of Hariharpur on the way to Kathmandu. It threatened the capital, hence, Nepal accepted the treaty of Sugauli on 4th March 1816.

Amarsingh was the commander of the Sindhuli Sadhi during the second round of fighting. The sudden collapse of the glory he had created hurt him terribly and he decided to spend his last days in solitude. He retired to the Himalayas and died in 1816, at the Gosainkunda.

(493.3 km) via NH27

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of Nepal, Shri K.P. Sharma Oli flags off the bus service from Nepal’s Janakpur to Uttar Pradesh’s Ayodhya, at Janakpur, Nepal on May 11, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi offering prayers at Janaki Mandir, in Janakpur, Nepal on May 11, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi offering prayers at Janaki Mandir, in Janakpur, Nepal on May 11, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi offering prayers at Janaki Mandir, in Janakpur, Nepal on May 11, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi offering prayers at Janaki Mandir, in Janakpur, Nepal on May 11, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at Janaki Mandir, in Janakpur, Nepal on May 11, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at Janaki Mandir, in Janakpur, Nepal on May 11, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at Janaki Mandir, in Janakpur, Nepal on May 11, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the Prime Minister of Nepal, Shri K.P. Sharma Oli, at Janaki Mandir, in Janakpur, Nepal on May 11, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the Prime Minister of Nepal, Shri K.P. Sharma Oli, at Janaki Mandir, in Janakpur, Nepal on May 11, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the Prime Minister of Nepal, Shri K.P. Sharma Oli, at Janaki Mandir, in Janakpur, Nepal on May 11, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the Prime Minister of Nepal, Shri K.P. Sharma Oli, at Janaki Mandir, in Janakpur, Nepal on May 11, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the Prime Minister of Nepal, Shri K.P. Sharma Oli, at Janaki Mandir, in Janakpur, Nepal on May 11, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the Prime Minister of Nepal, Shri K.P. Sharma Oli, at Janaki Mandir, in Janakpur, Nepal on May 11, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at Janaki Mandir, in Janakpur, Nepal on May 11, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

• View attachment 474476

545.3 km via Kaptanganj - Partawal - Faizabad Rd

Muktinath Temple is located at an altitude of 3710 meters above sea level and situated 24 km northeast direction of Jomsom. Muktinath Mandir can also be reached after crossing Thorong-La mountain pass in Annapurna Conservation Area, Mustang district of Nepal. This temple is covered in one of the famous trekking route "Annapurna Circuit".

Muktinath Temple is called the sacred place Mukti Kshetra, which literally means the “place of liberation or moksha”. This temple is considered to be the 105th among the available 108 Divya Desam, which are considered sacred, Sri Muktinath is considered one of the eight most sacred shrines for Hindu Vaishnavas known as Svayam Vyakta Ksetras, the other seven being Srirangam, Srimushnam, Tirupati, Naimisharanya, Thotadri, Pushkar and Badrinath.


The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at Muktinath Temple, in Nepal on May 12, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at Muktinath Temple, in Nepal on May 12, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at Muktinath Temple, in Nepal on May 12, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at Muktinath Temple, in Nepal on May 12, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi offering prayers at Muktinath Temple, in Nepal on May 12, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi offering prayers at Muktinath Temple, in Nepal on May 12, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi offering prayers at Muktinath Temple, in Nepal on May 12, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi offering prayers at Muktinath Temple, in Nepal on May 12, 2018.

• View attachment 474473

(452.5 km) via Kaptanganj - Partawal - Faizabad Rd
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at Pashupatinath Temple, in Nepal on May 12, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at Pashupatinath Temple, in Nepal on May 12, 2018.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at Pashupatinath Temple, in Nepal on May 12, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Culture
17-May, 2018 17:38 IST
Eminent Artist and Sculptor, Shri Uttam Pacharne appointed regular Chairman of Lalit Kala Akademi

The President of India has appointed Shri Uttam Pacharne, as regular Chairman of Lalit Kala Akademi. Shri Pacharne is an eminent artist and sculptor. He is a widely respected person in the field of art and has held various important positions. Currently, he is Member of Advisory Committee, Kala Academy, Goa and Member of Advisory Committee, P.L. Deshpande State Lalit Kala Academy and Director, Janseva Sahakari Bank Borivali.

He is the recipient of National Lalit Kala Award 1985, Maharashtra Gaurav Puraska 1985 from Government of Maharashtra, Junior National Award 1986 and Jeevan Gaurav Puraskar 2017 from Prafulla Dahanukar Foundation. Shri Pacharne will hold office for a term of three years from the date on which he assumes the charge of his office.

Previously in March 2018, Shri M.L. Srivastava, Joint Secretary (Akademies), Ministry of Culture was appointed Protem Chairman of the Lalit Kala Akademi , pending appointment of a regular Chairman.

********

 

[Hindustani78]

http://www.thehindu.com/news/nation...-of-history/article23939499.ece?homepage=true

An undergraduate course prepared by academicians on both sides of the border looks beyond ‘official’ interpretations
The hostility between India and Pakistan manifests itself in the contradictory understanding of South Asian history, which disagrees on individuals and episodes related to it.

Pitching for a change in this attitude, two educational institutes of the region have managed to create a common academic course in ‘shared South Asian history.’

The O.P. Jindal Global University (OPJGU) and the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), earlier in 2017, prepared and began a course covering important historical landmarks and personalities in modern Indian and Pakistani history.

As a result, Dr. Pallavi Raghavan of OPJGU and Dr. Ali Usman Qasemi of LUMS, on two sides of the border, came up with ‘Foundations of South Asian History,’ an undergraduate course for students of their respective universities.

The title made it clear that there could be more than one foundation for the South Asian region. It dealt with issues that usually are lost in the highly politicised study of historical figures like Mohammed Ali Jinnah and Mahatma Gandhi.

A key feature of the course is the study of aspects like the Indus Valley Civilisation, the core of which lies in Pakistan but does not get highlighted in official history of the state, as it de-emphasises ancient history of the Af-Pak region and highlights the advent of Islam in South Asia.

So, from the official Pakistani historical perspective, the real history of the two-nation theory begins with the arrival of Islamic conqueror Mohammed Bin Qasim to Sindh in the 7th century AD. Similarly, in the Indian context, figures like Pakistan’s founder ‘Qaid-e-Azam’ Jinnah and the first Prime Minister of Pakistan Liaquat Ali Khan are considered to be polarising figures. That apart, various historical phases like the resistance against 19th century colonialism, which is usually interpreted in both India and Pakistan in contradictory ways, formed a major challenge.

Dr. Ali Usman Qasemi explained, “What is remarkable about the course is that it gives an opportunity to students to study a shared but highly contested past. The idea is that students from Lahore and Delhi would discuss South Asian historical processes that impact our present day state, society and politics.”

At the heart of framing the course was the task of removing the narrower perspective of ‘official history’ that is delivered by academic structures on both sides of the India-Pakistan border, said Ms. Raghavan who, like Dr. Qasemi, is a trained historian.

Common understanding

“School textbooks blinker the student’s sense of the past and the course was aimed at building a common understanding of South Asian history,” Ms. Raghavan said, explaining the framing of the course by Dr. Qasemi and herself.

The initial process of teaching had to address the limited or negative understanding of figures like Jinnah, and Chaudhary Rahmat Ali among the Indian students and the similarly near-absent understanding of Rabindranath Tagore and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar among their Pakistani counterparts. “In fact, Pakistani students had a minimal idea about Ambedkar’s contribution to India,” Ms. Raghavan said.

Swaroopananda Mishra, a student of law who opted for the paper, said that as an optional paper it drew good response from scholars in multiple courses, including that of law. The course therefore had a substantial reading list of primary texts. A. L. Basham, Irfan Habib, Satish Chandra are among the recommended authors. Each reading addresses the controversies that are listed in a segment. For example, the chapter on the Indus Valley Civilisation had to deal with the controversial theory of ‘Aryan invasion’ and the chapter on Mughal history had to deal with the controversial perspective of ‘Muslimness’ of the Mughal empire. In the chapter on early Muslim history, the issue of the alleged massacre of Hindus was taken up. The goal of the course was not just to impart factual information on history, but also to ensure a deeper understanding of historical processes and dynamics. Students have to study 29 such segments dealing with 27 contested topics.

Complete autonomy

In all, the Indian batch of the subject had eight students and the Pakistani batch had 16 students. Upon completion, students will get credits that will support their overall grades. Pallavi Raghavan says that the unique academic exercise for graduate students was possible because they had complete autonomy in preparing such a course.

Similar attempts have not succeeded elsewhere. Notably, in the Delhi-based South Asian University (SAU), a course on history has so far not been implemented as member countries of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) region failed to come to a consensus on key events and narratives.

The challenge was, therefore, to craft a course where conversation could flow. Students on both sides connected through Skype could learn from faculty members and visiting lecturers, interact with each other and do collaborative course work over email and WhatsApp.

After a semester of studying through Skype and doing collaborative work, the students from Pakistan joined their Indian counterparts at OPJGU on 11 May for a physical class room experience. It was the satisfying culmination of nearly a year of effort by faculty members and visiting lecturers like Mani Shankar Aiyar, Srinath Raghavan and Meenakshi Gopinath.

The last class of the paper, which took place against the backdrop of the controversy over the portrait of Jinnah in the Aligarh Muslim University campus, provided a lively context, when 11 Pakistani students finally managed to get the visa to travel to the physical classroom in OPJGU.

 

[Hindustani78]

Vice President's Secretariat
21-May, 2018 17:01 IST
We must not neglect classical Indian art forms: Vice President

Reviving “Ashtapadiyattam” is like unearthing the buried treasure; Inaugurates revival ceremony of ancient Dance Drama “Ashtapadiyattam” which is “Gita Govindam”

The Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu has said that we must not neglect classical Indian art forms. He was addressing the gathering after inaugurating the revival ceremony of ancient Dance Drama “Ashtapadiyattam” which is “Gita Govindam” written by 12th century poet Jayadeva, in Guruvayur, Kerala today. The Governor of Kerala, Justice (Retd) P. Sathasivam and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

The Vice President said that while the country has preserved and nurtured our illustrious artistic heritage, unfortunately, certain classical Indian art forms remain in a state of neglect and slowly fading. We must not allow this unfortunate situation to persist and our cultural roots sustain us, make our lives richer and make our society more humane and civilized, he added.

The Vice President said that reviving “Ashtapadiyattam” is like unearthing the buried treasure and it is like watering a plant that is fast losing its vitality. He hoped that this dance drama is revived in all its pristine glory, as Jayadeva would have wanted it, giving full justice to the costumes, the music and the mudras as used in the original performance, he added.

Calling Gita Govindam a remarkable piece of literature, the Vice President complemented Sri Guruvayurappan Dharmakala Samuchayam Trust headed by Metro Man Shri E. Sreedharan.

The Vice President said that we continue to revive and foster ancient art forms so that we may enrich the quality of our lives and the lives of the people of the world by sharing the infinitely ennobling, harmonizing and blissful universal vision of our country. He further said that Gita Govindam’s unusually wide appeal comes from the story of Sri Krishna and his love for Radha. The story of Sri Krishna has a deep resonance in the Indian hearts and the composition is so lyrical and melodious that it is eminently suitable for various adaptations by musicians and dancers, he added.

The Vice President said that philosophy, spirituality, fine arts and literature are a part of the same quest. The quest for a deeper meaning of life, quest for zest in a routinized mundane existence, and quest for achieving greater creative heights of imaginative expression and artistic creations, he added.

Following is the text of Vice President’s address:

“I am happy to be with all of you at this event that is dedicated to revival of the much acclaimed “Ashtapadiyattam”- a dance drama based on “Gita Govindam” believed to have been composed by Jayadeva in the 12th century.

Indian thought has been holistic from time immemorial.

In India performing arts like music and dance as well as the visual arts like painting and sculpture are sublime expressions of a whole range of human emotions we call Nava Rasas.

Through the creation of a work of art, the artist strives to evoke a state of pure joy or bliss or Ananda.

This state of “Ananda” refines our inner beings and makes us better human beings, makes us more “cultured”, makes us more of “feeling” individuals.

What is remarkable about the Indian cultural heritage is its richly interwoven texture.

Philosophy, spirituality, fine arts and literature are a part of the same quest. The quest for a deeper meaning of life, quest for zest in a routinized mundane existence, and quest for achieving greater creative heights of imaginative expression and artistic creations.

Art has traditionally been considered as the best medium for expressing and experiencing devotion.

Indian fine arts have, therefore, a very strong religious and spiritual base and devotional content.

Indian sages have conceptualized the Creator of the Universe as a cosmic dancer, the Nataraja,

“Whose bodily movement is the entire Universe
Whose speech is the language of the Universe
Whose ornaments are the moon and the stars
Him, we worship as the pure , serene, Lord Shiva!”

This is the first stanza that every classical Indian dancer recites and enacts at the beginning of any dance performance.

Bharatha Muni’s Natya Shastra, composed around the 2nd century BC,is therefore, often called the Panchama Veda or the fifth Veda equating it with the four Vedas.

Sisters and brothers,

While we have preserved and nurtured our illustrious artistic heritage, there are, unfortunately, certain classical Indian art forms that remain in a state of neglect and are slowly fading.

We must not allow this unfortunate situation to persist.

Our cultural roots sustain us, make our lives richer and make our society more humane and civilized.

When I heard that the “Ashtapadiyattam” a dance drama based on “Gita Govindam” dance was being revived, I was extremely happy. It is like unearthing the buried treasure. It is like watering a plant that is fast losing its vitality.

This art form, a poignant rendition of the love between Lord Krishna and Radha, written by 12th century poet Jayadeva is a remarkable piece of literature that has been adapted in various parts of our country and integrated into different dance forms like Manipuri, Mohiniattam, Odissi and Kuchipudi. It became an essential element of Sri Chaitanya’s movement in Bengal, inspired Yakshagana dances and became the genesis of an entire genre of music called “Sopana sangeetham” as Jayadeva’s ashtapadis were sung on temple stairs. Very few compositions have united India so effortlessly as this composition.

Although Jayadeva originally composed his ashtapadis in Sanskrit, his work enthralled the length and breadth of our country. He received rare applause from the Bengali population. He came to be considered the founding father and one amongst the pioneers of Bengali literature. With time, the recital of the ashtapadis gained widespread popularity in temples across the country, including the state of Kerala.

Gita Govindam’s unusually wide appeal comes from the story of Sri Krishna and his love for Radha. The story of Sri Krishna has a deep resonance in the Indian hearts. Along with Ramayana, the Bhagavatham and the Mahabharata have become a part of our cultural capital and form the basis for many of our collective national consciousness and shared values.

The composition is so lyrical and melodious that it is eminently suitable for various adaptations by musicians and dancers.

The theme of love and the range of emotions displayed by the two main characters – Sri Krishna and Radha- are very engaging for a wide variety of diverse audiences.

It is also worth noting that the composition is also sung in temples by Bhagavathars as a completely devotional composition.

The mundane love gets transformed into a devotional prayer.

The love between Sri Krishna and Radha becomes an allegory for the longing of the human beings for a vision of the divine form and spiritual bliss. It becomes a sublimation of the ordinary emotions of two human beings.

Sisters and brothers,

It is no wonder, therefore, that this composition became so popular all over India.

The performance of the Gita Govinda at Puri Jagannath by the Mahatis and later by the Goutipas was significant in the development of Odissi. The dance form was so well revered at the time that the Mahatis who performed the dance were prohibited to perform any other form of dance. It was believed that Lord Jagannath particularly enjoyed renditions and dance performances of the Gita Govinda that He liked to listen to them before sleep.

The Gita Govindam soon became the central theme of many traditional Indian dance forms. The importance that Jayadeva attributed to the composition of his Gitas is evident from how he has carefully laid down the ragas and thalas for his gitas.

Jayadeva’s Gita Govindam classic encompasses a unique mix of classical literature, classical music and classical dance.

For these reasons, the Gita Govinda has made significant impacts on the performance arts in India and has spread across India. Although the ‘Ashtapadiyattam’ in its original form is no longer in existence, it can be found in various parts of India in various forms- like Mohiniattamand Kathakaliin Kerala,Bharatanatyam in Tamil Nadu,Kuchipudi in Andhra Pradesh, Manipuri in Manipur and Odissi in Orissa. Each of these regions developed its own way of articulating Jayadeva’s classic in the form of dance. It is hence imperative that this invaluable classic be handed down to posterity.

Sri Guruvayurappan Dharmakala Trust deserves all praise for taking up this mission. With the divine blessings of Lord Krishna who is the embodiment of all the 64 arts in the world as well as the grace of Puri’s Lord Jagannath who heard this classic composition first, we are indeed fortunate to be in the holy precincts of another abode of Lord Krishna in Guruvayur to revive a tradition that was nearly lost.

Sisters and brothers,

It gives me immense pleasure and honour to be amidst the devotees of Lord Guruvayurappan today and witness with each one of you the ‘Ashtapadiyattam’. I am glad to be able to get the blessings of Sri Krishna and Guruvayurappan in this God’s own country where Adi Shankara started his spiritual journey and where immortal hymn of “Narayaneeyam” continues to lend a healing touch to ailing humanity.

I hope that this dance drama is revived in all its pristine glory, as Jayadeva would have wanted it, giving full justice to the costumes, the music and the mudras as used in the original performance.

I hope we continue to revive and foster ancient art forms so that we may enrich the quality of our lives and the lives of the people of the world by sharing the infinitely ennobling, harmonizing and blissful universal vision of our country.

Jai Hind!”

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[Hindustani78]

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu at an event to inaugurate the revival ceremony of ancient Dance Drama “Ashtapadiyattam” which is “Gita Govindam”, in Guruvayur, Kerala on May 21, 2018. The Governor of Kerala, Justice (Retd.) P. Sathasivam, the Minister of State for Culture (I/C) and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Mahesh Sharma and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu lighting the lamp to inaugurate the revival ceremony of ancient Dance Drama “Ashtapadiyattam” which is “Gita Govindam”, in Guruvayur, Kerala on May 21, 2018. The Governor of Kerala, Justice (Retd.) P. Sathasivam, the Minister of State for Culture (I/C) and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Mahesh Sharma and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu addressing the gathering after inaugurating the revival ceremony of ancient Dance Drama “Ashtapadiyattam” which is “Gita Govindam”, in Guruvayur, Kerala on May 21, 2018.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu witnessing the performance of ancient Dance Drama “Ashtapadiyattam” which is “Gita Govindam”, in Guruvayur, Kerala on May 21, 2018. The Governor of Kerala, Justice (Retd.) P. Sathasivam and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu with the artists who have performed ancient Dance Drama “Ashtapadiyattam” which is “Gita Govindam”, in Guruvayur, Kerala on May 21, 2018. The Governor of Kerala, Justice (Retd.) P. Sathasivam and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Minister of State for Culture (I/C) and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Mahesh Sharma addressing at the inauguration of the revival ceremony of ancient Dance Drama “Ashtapadiyattam” which is “Gita Govindam”, in Guruvayur, Kerala on May 21, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Drinking Water & Sanitation
26-June, 2018 18:15 IST
Sanitation Action Plans Prepared for 10 New Swachh Iconic Places

SIP Sites Resolve to go 100% Plastic Free

Ten new heritage sites of the country today firmed up action plans for raising their sanitation standards to exemplary levels. These Places are Sri Raghavendra Swami Mutt Mantralayam (Andhra Pradesh), Hazarduari Palace (West Bengal), Shri Brahma Sarovar Temple (Haryana), Vidur Kuti Temple (Uttar Pradesh), Mana village (Uttarakhand), Pangong Tso (Jammu and Kashmir), Shri Nag Vasuki Temple (Uttar Pradesh), Nupi Keithel (Manipur), Sree Dharma Sastha Temple (Kerala) and Kanvashram (Uttarakhand), which constitute Phase-III of the Swachh Iconic Places (SIP) initiative of the Swachh Bharat Mission, coordinated by the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation.

The plans were formulated at a two-day consultation in Hyderabad held between Central and State Government agencies, local administrations and the Trusts/ Boards of the iconic places. In all, over 100 delegates from across the country attended the consultation. All the thirty Swachh Iconic Places selected so far under the initiative resolved to make their sites completely free of plastic at the event.

Simultaneously a review was done of the work already taken up at the 20 Phase-I and Phase-II Swachh Iconic Places. Work under Phase-I started in 2016 at Meenakshi Temple (Tamil Nadu), Ajmer Sharif Dargah (Rajasthan), Chatrapati Shivaji Terminus (Maharashtra), Shree Jagannath Temple (Odisha), Manikarnika Ghat (Uttar Pradesh), Golden Temple (Punjab), Kamakhya Devi Shrine (Assam), Taj Mahal (Uttar Pradesh), Shri Mata Vaisho Devi Temple (Jammu and Kashmir) and Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (Andhra Pradesh).

Another ten sites, Shree Mahakaleshwar Temple (Madhya Pradesh), Charminar (Telangana), Convent & Church of St. Francis of Asisi (Goa), Somnath Temple (Gujarat), Gomateshwara Statue (Karnataka), Kalady (Kerala), Gangotri Temple (Uttarakhand), Yamunotri Temple (Uttarakhand), Gaya Teerth (Bihar) and Baidyanath Temple (Jharkhand) were taken up in 2017 under Phase-II.

The Swachh Iconic Places initiative aims to achieve a distinctly higher level of sanitation at these places, especially in the peripheries and approach areas. Following the clarion call by the Prime Minister to make Swachhata everybody’s business, the Centre and selected States have taken up joint efforts for making the country’s iconic places Swachh. The special Swachhata initiatives at these places have received CSR support from public and private companies.

Presiding over the consultation and review, Secretary of Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Shri Parameswaran Iyer, expressed satisfaction over the progress made by this unique inter-sectoral initiative. He called for more coordinated work among all stakeholders and an escalation of IEC activities for involving local people and visitors at the iconic sites. The SIP participants from across the country, along with Shri Iyer, visited the sanitation works being planned around Charminar in Hyderabad under the SIP project.

Director General, Special Projects, Swachh Bharat Mission, Shri Akshay Rout, made a presentation on the progress of work at various iconic sites over last two years. A film and a brochure covering the 30 iconic sites were launched on the occasion. The extensive Swachhata related efforts at these iconic places were exhibited at the consultation.



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Prime Minister's Office
27-June, 2018 12:43 IST
PM to visit SantKabir Nagar on June 28, 2018

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, will visit Maghar in SantKabir Nagar district of Uttar Pradesh on June 28, 2018.

The Prime Minister will offer floral tributes at SantKabir Samadhi, on the occasion of the 500th death anniversary of the great saint and poet, Kabir. He will offer Chadar at SantKabirMazaar.

The Prime Minister will visit the SantKabir Cave. He will unveil a plaque to mark the laying of Foundation Stone of Kabir Academy, which will highlight the great saint’s teachings and thought.

Later, at a public meeting in Maghar, the Prime Minister will witness a cultural programme and address the gathering.



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[Hindustani78]

President's Secretariat
16-August, 2018 14:16 IST
President’s Greetings on the Eve of Parsi New Year

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind in his message on the eve of the Parsi New Year has said: -

“On the auspicious occasion of Parsi New Year, I offer my greetings and good wishes to all fellow citizens, and especially to all my Parsi brothers and sisters.

May this unique festival bring peace and prosperity in the lives of all people and reinforce our commitment to synthesis, harmony and goodwill towards all”.


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[Hindustani78]

President's Secretariat
24-August, 2018 17:21 IST
President’s greetings on the eve of Onam


The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind in his message on the eve of Onam has said: -

“On the occasion of Onam, I extend my greetings and good wishes to my fellow citizens and, especially to our brothers and sisters of Kerala in India and abroad.

May this festival bring peace and happiness to our people, in particular to all those in Kerala who are recovering in the aftermath of the recent floods, and are gradually beginning to rebuild their lives with their characteristic grit and resilience. May Onam mark a new beginning.”



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Vice President's Secretariat
24-August, 2018 20:23 IST
Share and Care is the core philosophy of our nation: Vice President

One never forget Mother, Motherland, Mother tongue and Guru; Releases Book 'Colonial Syndrome: The Videshi Mind Set in Modern India'

The Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu has said that Share and Care is the core philosophy of our nation. He was addressing the gathering after releasing the Book 'Colonial Syndrome: The Videshi Mind Set in Modern India', written by Prof. Rama Krishna Rao, in Vishakhapattanam, Andhra Pradesh today.

The Vice President said that the book highlights the distinct difference or disconnect between native Indian ethos and present state. It has clearly described and showcased how we as a country and a civilization moved away from our own ideas, values and culture and adopted a value system that is not ours, he added.

The Vice President talked about the initiatives he has taken as the Chairman of Rajya Sabha, such as allowing members to speak in their mother tongue by providing simultaneous translation to Rajya Sabha members and advising ministers and members not to use the term "beg" while tabling the listed official papers in the House.

The Vice President said that English language has now become the language of the world, especially in field of Science and Technology as it enjoys a distinct place in our education system. He further said that one cannot and should not let go of our mother tongue, dialects and regional languages. These languages carried the life and history of human civilization in their respective areas and essential steps are needed to bring in a language renaissance, he added.

The Vice President said that our education system must focus on the lives of people living in rural India and research is needed to bring in a difference in peoples’ lives. He further said that Agriculture must be taught and encourage the young to take it up. Development of villages will be critical if we want to close the gap between the “haves and have not's” for a better human development, he added.

Talking about Gandhiji’s views on achieving economic equality, the Vice President said that Gandhi ji proposed social reconstruction keeping village as the centre of activities and added the development of villages is crucial for nation’s progress.



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[Hindustani78]

President's Secretariat
25-August, 2018 14:27 IST
President of India's greetings on the eve of Raksha Bandhan

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind in his message on the eve of Raksha Bandhan has said:-

“On the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan, I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to all my fellow citizens in India and abroad.

Raksha Bandhan is a celebration of the unique relationship between brothers and sisters. Tying of a Rakhi symbolizes love, affection and mutual trust between sisters and brothers. May the spirit of this festival strengthen fraternal feelings, and inspire us to live in a society defined by universal respect for the security and dignity of women, especially of girl children”.

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Vice President's Secretariat
25-August, 2018 17:00 IST
Vice President Greets People on the eve of Rakshabandhan



The Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu has greeted the people on the eve of Rakshabandhan. In a message, he said that Rakshabandhan is celebrated all over the country reaffirming the strong bond of love and affection between brothers and sisters. The festival also upholds the high place traditionally accorded to women in our society, he added.


Following is the text of Vice President’s message:

“I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to the people of our country on the auspicious occasion of Rakshabandhan.

Rakshabandhan is celebrated all over the country reaffirming the strong bond of love and affection between brothers and sisters. The festival also upholds the high place traditionally accorded to women in our society.

On this happy occasion, let us rededicate ourselves to upholding the dignity and respect of women in our country.”


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Prime Minister's Office
25-August, 2018 14:41 IST
PM expresses solidarity with the people of Kerala on Onam

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, on the occasion of the auspicious festival of Onam, has expressed solidarity with the people of Kerala.

"May this Onam give further strength to the people of Kerala to overcome the adversities they have been facing for the past few days. The entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with Kerala and prays for the happiness as well as prosperity of it’s citizens", the Prime Minister said.

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[Fawadqasim1]

ḳhirad kā naam junūñ paḌ gayā junūñ kā ḳhirad

jo chāhe aap kā husn-e-karishma-sāz kare