Nalanda University, situated in the historic town of Rajgir, marked World Philosophy Day with a rich, two-day event from January 11-12, 2025, weaving together the timeless wisdom of Indian philosophy with contemporary spiritual and ethical insights. The event was a celebration of deep intellectual exchange, where scholars and students explored the profound connections between ancient philosophical traditions and modern-day challenges.
The event’s highlight was the keynote lectures by the internationally renowned philosopher, Prof. Arindam Chakrabarti, whose expertise in Indian philosophy drew significant attention. A distinguished scholar with affiliations to prestigious institutions such as Oxford University, the University of Hawaii, and Ashoka University, Prof. Chakrabarti’s extensive work, including 17 books in English, Sanskrit, and Bengali, has earned him global recognition.
In his keynote address, “Reconciliation – Advaita Vedānta and Buddhism,” Prof. Chakrabarti expertly navigated the philosophical landscapes of these two ancient traditions, examining their shared quest for understanding the nature of reality. He illuminated how Advaita Vedānta and Buddhism approach the material world and spiritual growth differently, yet both emphasize profound wisdom and questioning. He passionately remarked, “These dialogues are a timeless guide for anyone seeking truth, unity, and spiritual growth,” underlining the enduring relevance of these philosophical teachings.
The event featured other esteemed speakers such as Prof. Godabarisha Mishra, Dean of the School of Buddhist Studies, Philosophy, and Comparative Religion at Nalanda University, and Prof. R.C. Sinha from the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Shimla. Their sessions were a testament to the depth and richness of Indian philosophy, fostering lively discussions among the attendees.
The second day of the event, January 12, held special significance as it coincided with the birth anniversary of the revered spiritual leader, Swami Vivekananda. Prof. Chakrabarti honored Vivekananda’s legacy with a captivating talk titled “Swami Vivekananda’s Vedānta of Love.” He explored the revolutionary ideas that Vivekananda brought to the forefront, emphasizing the integration of spiritual oneness with actionable compassion. “Vivekananda’s teachings inspire us to connect philosophy with compassion. In today’s fractured world, they’re more relevant than ever,” Prof. Chakrabarti observed, reminding the audience of the power of love in shaping a harmonious society.
The event was a proud moment for Nalanda University, as it continues to build on its ancient legacy of intellectual engagement and philosophical discourse. Interim Vice-Chancellor Prof. Abhay Kumar Singh noted that these events exemplify the University’s mission to revive Nalanda’s global standing as a center of dialogue, learning, and the promotion of universal values.
The celebration concluded with heartfelt gratitude from Dr. Ramesh Singh Parihar, Registrar of Nalanda University, who praised the speakers and the engaged student community for contributing to the success of the event. Nalanda University, through such initiatives, continues to inspire a renewed spirit of philosophical exploration and cultural exchange, keeping the beacon of its ancient heritage alight in the modern world.

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