CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh Bhoj Open University organized a Vichar Manthan (Ideation) Program on the theme “Become a Karmayogi.” This discussion was held between university teachers and students to facilitate academic dialogue and suggest potential improvements in the educational system.
The event was presided over by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sanjay Tiwari, while Registrar Sushil Kumar Manderia, who also served as the event’s coordinator, was present. The discussion aimed to establish direct interaction with students to explore new changes in the academic framework.
The keynote speaker, Prof. Uttam Singh Chauhan, University Director, highlighted that Lord Krishna presented the philosophy of Karma Yoga in the Bhagavad Gita, which remains the only philosophical discourse delivered on a battlefield. He explained that Karma Yoga is a life-guiding principle and mentioned interpretations by various scholars, including Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, who called Karma Yoga a protective shield that helps navigate every situation. He also referenced Vivekananda, Tilak, and Mahatma Gandhi, who provided their own interpretations of the Gita’s teachings.
Prof. Chauhan pointed out that the Rigveda contains theories about the universe’s origin, aligning with the Big Bang Theory. He further stated that Aryabhata had calculated the value of Pi centuries ago. Additionally, he distinguished between the Western concept of “Religion” and the Indian perspective on “Dharma.”
He introduced students to India’s nine major philosophical schools, including six theistic (Astika) and three atheistic (Nastika) philosophies. He explained how Charvaka’s materialistic philosophy, originating in India, influenced Western utilitarianism, leading to scientific and industrial revolutions in the West, which resulted in greater materialistic advancements compared to India. He described Kapila Muni’s Sankhya philosophy as a scientific doctrine and elaborated on its theory of life evolution, emphasizing the relationship between Prakriti (Nature) and Purusha (Consciousness). He also highlighted the eightfold path of Yoga as a means to attain moksha (liberation) and noted that the Gita defines one’s duty and righteous path.
Another keynote speaker, Director L.P. Jhariya, discussed the four life pursuits—Dharma (righteousness), Artha (wealth), Kama (desire), and Moksha (liberation). He described Lord Krishna as the greatest Karmayogi and emphasized that the soul is eternal, immortal, and indestructible. He advised students on how to become true Karmayogis and also addressed challenges in the education system. He raised concerns about teachers being engaged in non-academic tasks, which negatively impacts education in schools and colleges. He further proposed measures to create a more focused academic environment.
While presiding over the event, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sanjay Tiwari stressed the importance of duty without attachment to rewards and stated that our actions shape our lives. He emphasized that Yoga ultimately leads to liberation and discussed the Hindu belief in rebirth. He encouraged students to embrace the wisdom shared by scholars to become true Karmayogis and stated that achieving a developed India by 2047 would require increased dedication and productivity.
Concluding the event, Registrar Sushil Manderia expressed gratitude, describing the Sun as the greatest Karmayogi and Swami Vivekananda as the ideal Karmayogi among the youth. He also cited King Harishchandra as an embodiment of truth and asserted that performing and successfully completing one’s duty is the essence of Karma Yoga. He urged everyone to carry out their responsibilities with full dedication.
The event was moderated by Dr. Anita Kaushal, Deputy Director of the Internal Quality Assurance Cell. A large number of university faculty members, officials, staff, and students attended the session.
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