Few quotes from his address- “It’s a matter of great privilege and immense pleasure to be here to deliver this address on India’s Independence Day. True that politically, we became independent some 75 years before on this day. But as people firmly believing in autonomy of the society, one can’t deny the fact that invasions after invasions couldn’t rob us of our liberal mind. The fact that we survived such onslaughts for several millennia as a cultural nation speaks volumes of the unfathomable strength of our culture and our traditions. The centrality of culture to the idea of India just can’t be denied. From eternally relevant philosophical tenets to traditional knowledge and from classical arts to colourful practises, Indian culture has multiple dimensions. One would wonder as to what remains if we take out culture from the idea of India. Similarly, Indian Culture minus its epics and puranas leaves precious little for one to gather insights about India, Indian culture and society.”
“The Sanskrit epics and Puranas are not relics of the past; they are living reservoirs of wisdom that continue to inspire and guide us in the twenty- first-century, they are breathing narratives that continue to shape our identities, beliefs, and values. There are elements of modern management science in these epics. What Mahabharat, and particularly Shri Krishna tells us is all about relationship management, art of negotiations, diplomacy as also commitment to fundamental human values. In Ramayana we find lessons on sustainability, strategy and family values. Epics and Puranas remind us of our shared humanity, our struggles, and our aspirations. They provide us with a moral compass, philosophical insights, and a rich cultural heritage that connects us to our roots. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, let us not forget the timeless lessons embedded in these narratives.”
“One must realise that the wisdom of epics and puranas is ever aging but never old. Let us engage with them not as distant echoes but as resonating voices that guide us toward a more enlightened and compassionate future.”
Earlier, President of Indian Council For Cultural Relations Dr. Vinay Sahasrabuddhe met with #Sanskrit scholars over dinner, participating in the 10th #DICSEP. Sanskrit Epics & Puranas are eternal sources of wisdom for humanity. Scholars from 15 countries explored the inspiration emanating from divine texts in #Dubrovnik on 14-19/08/23. During the visit, President of Indian Council For Cultural Relations Dr. Vinay Sahasrabuddhe was also given a bird’s eye view of the rich heritage of the historical old town of Grad Dubrovnik by the Mayor’s office.
